How to Handle Childhood Fevers: When to Call a Pediatrician

Childhood fevers are common. It can be difficult to tell whether a fever will go away on its own, or whether you should call a pediatrician. Dr. Jeffrey Cabotaje and Dr. Elizabeth Wollensak at Pediatrics Unlimited in Oak Park, IL, provide comprehensive medical services for children including treatment of fever.

What You Need to Know about Childhood Fevers 

Your child may develop a fever from exposure to a virus, like the ones that cause colds, or bacteria, like those that cause strep throat. There are a few steps you can take to handle mild, occasional fever symptoms. You can try:

• Giving your child infant or children’s Tylenol
• Giving your child a cool sponge bath
• Applying cold washcloths to your child’s skin
• Having your child suck on popsicles

If simple remedies don’t work, or if your child’s fever is getting worse, it’s time to call your Oak Park pediatrician. You should call the pediatrician if your child’s fever is:

• 100.4 degrees or higher, if your child is under 4 months old
• 104 degrees or higher, if your child is over 4 months old
• Still present after 2 to 3 days or is getting more severe

You should also call the pediatrician if your child’s fever is accompanied by:

• A rash or bruising
• Shortness of breath
• Nonstop crying
• A stiff neck or seizure
• Pain while urinating
• Lower urine output

If you are unsure about what to do, it’s always a safe bet to call your pediatrician for advice. Childhood fever can be a sign of a more serious condition, so it’s important to carefully monitor your child’s symptoms. Be sure to keep your child away from contact with other children until your child is healthy.

Want to Know More about Childhood Fevers?

To find out more about how to handle childhood fevers and when to call a pediatrician, talk with the experts. Call Dr. Jeffrey Cabotaje and Dr. Elizabeth Wollensak at Pediatrics Unlimited in Oak Park, IL. You can reach their office by calling (708) 383-3010!