Fever in Children: When to Worry and When to Relax

Dr. Sanjay Siddharth

Fever is one of the most common reasons parents rush their child to the doctor. While it can be worrying to see your little one uncomfortable, not all fevers are dangerous. In fact, fever is often the body’s natural way of fighting infections.

When to Relax

• Mild fever (below 100.4°F / 38°C): Often linked to minor viral infections, teething, or common colds.
• Active and drinking fluids: If your child is still playful, eating, and hydrated, it’s usually not an emergency.
• Short duration: Fevers that last only 1–2 days without worsening symptoms can often be managed at home.

When to Worry

• Very high fever (above 102°F / 38.9°C): Especially in infants under 3 months.
• Persistent fever: Lasting more than 3 days without improvement.
• Other symptoms: Difficulty breathing, seizures, severe headache, lethargy, poor feeding, or dehydration.
• Underlying conditions: If your child has chronic illnesses, even mild fever should be checked.

What Parents Can Do

• Keep your child well hydrated.
• Dress them in light clothing.
• Use fever medicines (like paracetamol) only as advised by your pediatrician.
• Avoid antibiotics unless prescribed.

Takeaway: Not every fever is a cause for panic, but parents should trust their instincts. If the fever is unusually high, persistent, or accompanied by concerning symptoms, consult a pediatrician immediately.