FAQs
Most fevers go away in a couple of days. Call your doctor if the fever lasts more than four days or right away if your feverish child has the following symptoms: Vomiting or diarrhea. Earache.
When should I be concerned about my 2.5 year old's fever? ›
In kids between 3 months and 3 years of age, a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher requires a call to your pediatrician.
Can a toddler have a fever with no other symptoms? ›
While fever is caused by an infection, sometimes your child may have a fever with no other symptoms at all. Please don't panic—this is common—especially after vaccinations or certain procedures that involve anesthesia. Always ask your pediatrician if you're unsure.
When to bring a toddler to the ER for a fever? ›
If your child's temperature reaches 105 degrees Fahrenheit, this is considered a medical emergency and your child needs immediate medical attention, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
How do you treat a fever that won't break? ›
Rest and drink plenty of fluids. Medication isn't needed. Call the doctor if the fever is accompanied by a severe headache, stiff neck, shortness of breath, or other unusual signs or symptoms. If you're uncomfortable, take acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or aspirin.
Should I let my child's fever run its course? ›
But the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stresses that fever itself is usually not a problem. In fact, it can be helpful. Fever is a sign that the body is combating an infection.
What temperature is too high for a 2 year old? ›
In general, call the doctor if your child is: younger than 3 months old with a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. 3 months or older with a temperature higher than 102.2°F (39°C) any age but has a health problem like cancer or sickle cell disease and has a fever.
What is a low-grade fever in a 2 year old? ›
“Low-grade” means that the temperature is slightly elevated — between 98.7°F and 100.4°F (37.05°C and 38.0°C) — and lasts for more than 24 hours.
What is a normal temp range for a 2.5 year old? ›
Average temperatures by age
Age | Oral | Armpit |
---|
0–12 months | 95.8–99.3°F (36.7–37.3°C) | 94.8–98.3°F (36.4–37.3°C) |
Children | 97.6–99.3°F (36.4–37.4°C) | 96.6–98.3°F (35.9–36.83°C) |
Adults | 96–98°F (35.6–36.7°C) | 95–97°F (35–36.1°C) |
Adults over age 65 | 93–98.6°F (33.9–37°C) | 92–97.6°F (33.3–36.4°C) |
Jul 2, 2024
What causes random fevers in toddlers? ›
When investigating recurrent fever, the most likely etiology to consider is infection. Especially in children under the age of six years, the most common cause of multiple febrile episodes is the occurrence of repeated upper respiratory tract infections (e.g., pharyngitis, otitis media).
The causes of fever of unknown origin (FUO) are often common conditions presenting atypically. The list of causes is extensive, and it is broken down into broader categories, such as infection, noninfectious inflammatory conditions, malignancies, and miscellaneous.
Why does my toddler feel feverish but no fever? ›
It's possible to feel feverish but not be running an actual temperature. Underlying medical conditions, hormone fluctuations, and lifestyle may all contribute to these feelings. Feeling feverish or hot may be one of the first signs of having a fever.
When should I start worrying about my toddler's fever? ›
If you can't reach your doctor, go to the emergency department. A fever of 105 or higher in a child of any age, including teens. A fever in an infant (less than a year old) over 102 for more than two days—without a clear reason for the fever.
How long does a viral fever last in a child? ›
Fever caused by a viral infection tends to get better within 2 to 3 days. If your child's fever lasts for more than 5 days, get them seen by your GP. The chart below shows how long fever lasts in a child with viral infections.
How to break a fever in a toddler? ›
How Do You Treat a Fever at Home?
- Dress your child in light clothing. Over dressing them can trap the body's heat and make the temperature go higher. ...
- Give extra fluids. ...
- Your child may not want to eat much. ...
- Give sponge baths or let your child soak in a tub. ...
- Over-the-counter medicines can help lower a fever.
How long does it take for a 2 year old to break a fever? ›
Dress them in lightweight clothing and lower room temperatures. Allow them to rest – in most cases, you shouldn't wake a sleeping child to give them fever medicine. Patience - typically, your child's fever will go away on its own in 2 or 3 days.
How do you break a stubborn fever in a toddler? ›
Over-the-counter medicines can help lower a fever. Read the label on the bottle to know the right dose for your child. Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) may be used in all children over 2 months. Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) may be used in children over 6 months.
What if my child has a low grade fever that won't go away? ›
Children. If your child is still making eye contact with you, drinking fluids, and playing, then a low-grade fever isn't likely a cause for alarm. But you should still visit a doctor if a low-grade fever lasts for more than three days.
What causes a 2 year old to spike a fever? ›
Most fevers are caused by infections or other illnesses. The high body temperature makes it more difficult for the bacteria and viruses that cause infections to survive. Common conditions that can cause fevers include: upper respiratory tract infections (RTIs)