Medical Minute:Baby Fever

Fever & Pain in Infants 0-24 Months

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Tips for Relief of Your Child’s Fever and Pain

Your baby’s smile, laugh or gurgle warms your heart. It seems like every day your baby discovers a new way to make you happy. But when your baby is in pain or running a fever, it can be downright scary — especially if you’re a new parent.

Give your infant fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen, or, if your infant is older than 6 months, ibuprofen. Never give your infant aspirin. Fever medications help lower your child's body temperature by blocking the mechanisms that cause fever. However, MayoClinic.com recommends you do not give medications to treat fever under 102 degrees Fahrenheit but let your child's body "deal" the fever naturally. Remember that these medications do not treat the cause of fever, only lower your child's body temperature and help ease the discomfort that fever can cause. The dose of fever medication depends on your baby's weight. Consult your doctor or pharmacist to make sure you are using the correct dosage.

Give your infant plenty of fluids during fever. Fever can lead to dehydration, especially if combined with diarrhea. Encourage your infant to drink water, juice or milk. Your infant may not have an appetite during fever, but it is important that he/she continues to drink fluids.

Always call your pediatrician if your infant has a fever above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Fever can be a result of a serious illness, and your baby's doctor needs to know about it. Never give an infant that is less than 3 months old any fever medications or other remedies. If the fever is caused by infectious disease, keep your child away from other children and people.