Many parents feel panic when their children’s temperature starts to rise. It is hard to know whether to seek pediatric care in Summerville, SC. Your child may have a cold, or it is a sign of something more serious. Read on to find out more about fevers to help with making a good judgment call.
Normal and Natural
A low-grade fever is your body’s natural response to viruses and bacteria. The viruses have a lesser chance of surviving as the body temperature rises. However, parents must determine when the temperature is too high. A child under three months with a rectal temperature of 100.4F or above is a sign of concern.
Use Medication Sparingly
A child with a fever usually experiences various symptoms, such as hot chill sensations, exhaustion, and crankiness. Most parents do not want their children to suffer and will give them fever-reducing medications. However, you should not go right away to medication and allow the body to do its job.
Fevers Fluctuate
It is a common misconception to think that after a fever lowers that it will stay down. Fevers tend to spike and dip as the body fights off the infection. They can last for up to three days while decreasing and increasing with intensity. When your child is experiencing these symptoms, it becomes a concern and should get medical attention immediately.
If your child feels sick and you do not know what to do, never be afraid to seek pediatric care in Summerville, SC. It helps to get a second opinion to reassure your instincts as a parent. Contact Palmetto Pediatrics for an appointment today.