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| |    Fever: Overview by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P. reviewed and revised by Lynn Cates, M.D., F.A.A.P. Fever is inevitable during childhood. The seriousness of a fever is not solely based on how high it is. It's important to know how to measure a fever, when to let it run its course, and when to treat it. Knowing the appropriate treatments can help you make your child feel better and ensure the best possible care. Normal body temperature varies Remember that a healthy child's body temperature doesn't stay fixed at 98.6 degrees F (37 degrees C). It is always going up and down a little, depending on the time of day and what the child is doing. There are different ways to take a temperature Discuss what type of thermometer to use and what temperature constitutes a fever with your child's healthcare provider. This likely will vary depending on your child's age. Fever just tells you there is a problem, not what it is Fever is a symptom of illness, not a disease. Not all fevers need prompt medication or other treatment. Fever may actually help your child's body fight an infection. It is more important for you to assess how sick your child is than it is for you to determine how high the temperature is. Fevers are usually caused by infections Fevers are usually caused by infections such as the common cold, flu, strep throat, and ear infection. It's quite variable how high a fever will run and how long it will last. Depending on the illness, your child's healthcare provider usually can give you a rough idea of what to expect and when to have your child re-checked. Fever medicines Although there are many brands of fever medications, the only ones recommended for children all contain one of two active ingredients: either acetominaphen or ibuprofen. Read the labels carefully. Don't give aspirin to children Never give aspirin to a child or teenager for fever or for cold or flu symptoms unless a doctor prescribes it. Aspirin can make the child more susceptible to Reye's syndrome, an uncommon but very dangerous condition. Other ways to treat a fever In addition to medication, techniques such as dressing your child lightly, placing her in a cool (not cold) bath, or sponging her with a cool, damp washcloth can help cool her down. Although ice baths and rubbing alcohol were once recommended as quick ways to bring a temperature down, they can be dangerous and are not recommended.
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