Medically reviewed by the Rice Emergency Room Medical Team

Dr. Amir Zegar, DO

Medically reviewed byDr. Amir Zegar, DOBoard-Certified Emergency Medicine Physician | Medical Director

Fevers in children are obviously very stressful for a parent.  It is true that a fever is how the body fights off an infection, there are moments when the fever can last longer than anticipated, which can be cause for concern.

Below, we will discuss symptoms, causes, treatment, and when you should visit an ER for help.

Symptoms and Causes

Fevers come in various forms, often accompanied by symptoms and underlying causes. When determining the severity of a fever, Doctors consider these accompanying symptoms. Common triggers for fevers include:

  • Sinus infections
  • The common cold
  • Influenza
  • Local Leukemia, Hodgkin’s disease, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, or even a deep vein blood clot, although this is typically associated with localized intestinal infections

Less frequently, a fever can be a sign of more serious conditions like meningitis or chronic illnesses. Autoimmune diseases like arthritis, colitis, and lupus can also lead to fevers. (NCBI)

Understanding Fevers in Children

Before delving into what to do when a fever doesn’t break, it’s essential to understand the basics of fevers in children. A fever is typically defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). Viral or bacterial infections often cause them but can also result from other factors such as teething, vaccinations, or environmental conditions.

Most fevers in children are harmless and serve as a natural defense mechanism, helping the body fight off the underlying illness. However, if a fever persists or becomes very high, it can cause concern. Here’s what you should know:

  • Monitor the Temperature: When your child has a fever, it’s crucial to monitor their temperature regularly. A reliable digital thermometer can help you accurately assess their fever. If the fever is consistently above 100.4°F, it’s time to take action.
  • Staying Hydrated: One common concern during a fever is dehydration. Kids may not feel like eating or drinking when they’re unwell, which can lead to dehydration. According to KidsHealth, it’s essential to encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear soups, or oral rehydration solutions. This can help prevent dehydration, which can worsen the condition.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter fever-reducing medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help lower your child’s temperature and relieve discomfort. However, it’s vital to follow the dosing instructions carefully. These medications should be used sparingly and only when necessary, as they don’t treat the underlying cause of the fever. (Medical News Today)


When to Visit the Doctor or ER

Knowing when to seek medical attention for a fever is crucial.

  • Consult a Doctor if the fever goes above 105°F,
  • lasts longer than three days,
  • is accompanied by a rash,
  • or comes with intense pain or swelling in any body part.
  • Seek emergency medical care if a child has their first seizure or one that lasts over five minutes,
  • if the individual or child has a weakened immune system,
  • if there is confusion or loss of consciousness along with the fever,
  • if a rapidly spreading rash or wound with streaks is present,
  • or if signs of dehydration like very dark urine or reduced urination (less than three times a day) are observed.
  • For infants under three months old, any fever should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider, even if it’s not extremely high, as it could indicate a severe infection. (Pitone)

Fevers in children are typically harmless and serve as a natural response to infections. However, a fever that persists or becomes very high should be taken seriously and parents should seek medical help immediately.


Works Cited

NCBI. “National Center for Biotechnology Information.” NCBI – Fever in Children: Overview,

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279455/.

Medical News Today. “Breaking a Fever: Treatment and Causes.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International,

www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315706#causes.

“What to Do about a Fever (High Temperature) (for Parents) – Nemours Kidshealth.” Edited by Melanie L. Pitone, KidsHealth, The Nemours Foundation, Dec. 2022,

kidshealth.org/en/parents/fever-sheet.html#:~: text=If%20you%20can’t%20reach,of%20liquids%20to%20avoid%20dehydration.