FEVER

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

How to take the temperature

Common misconceptions about fever

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR FEVER

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance)

Not moving or very weak.
Unresponsive or difficult to awaken.
Difficulty breathing with bluish lips.
Rash with purple (blood-colored) spots or dots.

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

Your child looks or acts very sick.
Any difficulty breathing.
Great difficulty swallowing fluids or saliva.
Child is confused or has stiff neck or bulging soft spot.
Had a seizure with a fever.
Age less than 12 weeks with fever above 100.4°F (38°C) rectally.
(Caution: do NOT give these babies any fever medicine before being seen.)
Fever above 104°F (40°C) at any age.
Very irritable (e.g., inconsolable crying or cries when touched or moved).
Won't move an arm or leg normally.
Signs of dehydration (very dry mouth, no urine in more than 8 hours, etc.).
Chronic disease or medication that causes decreased immunity.

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

You think your child needs to be seen.
Age 3-6 months with fever.
Age 6-24 months with fever present for more than 24 hours but no other symptoms (e.g., no cold, cough, diarrhea, etc.).
Burning or pain with urination.
Fever lasts for more than 3 days (72 hours).

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns.

Parent Care at Home If

Fever with no other symptoms AND you don't think your child needs to be seen.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

See Other Topics:

View Anatomic Index of Topics