As parents, nothing is more distressing than seeing our little ones suffering from a high fever. Especially in the case of newborn babies, it can be alarming and even scary! But worry not, because we’ve got you covered with some essential tips on what to do when your new born baby has a high fever. So let’s dive right in and equip ourselves with the knowledge that can help us tackle this situation like a pro!
What is Fever?
Fever is a common ailment that can afflict newborns. A fever is usually defined as a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. While a fever in a newborn can be alarming, it isn’t always cause for concern. In fact, fevers in newborns are often benign and resolve on their own.
There are many possible causes of fever in newborns, including:
Infections: Infections are a common cause of fever in newborns. Urinary tract infections, ear infections, and respiratory infections are some of the most common types of infections that can lead to fever in newborns.
Immunizations: Some immunizations, such as the DTaP vaccine, can lead to mild fever in newborns. This is considered a normal reaction and doesn’t require treatment.
Teething: Teething can lead to low-grade fever in some babies. However, teething shouldn’t result in a temperature over 100.4°F (38°C). If your baby has a high fever while teething, it could be indicative of another problem and you should contact your doctor.
If your baby has a fever, there are several things you can do to help bring the temperature down and make your baby more comfortable:
When to See a Doctor ?
If your baby has a fever, it’s important to know how to spot the signs and when to seek medical help. A fever is usually considered to be a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. However, this varies from person to person. In babies, a slightly elevated temperature may cause concern, even if it’s within the “normal” range.
If your baby has a fever, you should:
- Take their temperature and record it in a log
- Check for other signs of illness, such as a runny nose or rash
- Give them plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Dress them in light clothing and keep them cool
- Talk to your doctor if the fever persists or is accompanied by other symptoms
Causes of Fever in Newborns
There are many different potential causes of fever in newborns. Some common causes include infection (such as urinary tract infection or pneumonia), immunizations, and teething. Other less common causes include Kawasaki disease, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and certain types of cancer. If your newborn has a fever, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the cause so that appropriate treatment can be given.
Treatment for Fever in Newborns
When your newborn baby has a fever, it can be a scary experience. But there are some simple things you can do to help ease your baby’s discomfort and bring down the fever.
First, it’s important to understand what a fever is. A fever is when your baby’s body temperature is above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. While a fever can make your baby feel uncomfortable, it’s usually not harmful and is often caused by an infection or illness.
If your newborn has a fever, the first thing you should do is contact your baby’s healthcare provider. They will be able to tell you if your baby’s fever is serious and needs medical treatment, or if it can be treated at home.
There are some simple things you can do at home to help ease your baby’s discomfort and bring down the fever:
- Give your baby plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Offer breast milk or infant formula more often than usual, or give them small sips of water or electrolyte solutions if they’re old enough to drink from a cup.
- Dress your baby in light clothing and keep them in a cool room, but don’t let them get too cold.
- Place a cool, damp cloth on their forehead or head while they rest. You can also give them a lukewarm bath to help lower their body temperature.
Home Remedies for Fever in Newborns
There are a few home remedies for fever in newborns that you can do to help reduce your baby’s temperature. One is to give them a lukewarm bath. This will help to soothe and relax them while also helping to bring their temperature down. Another is to dress them in light, loose clothing. This will allow their skin to breathe and will also help keep them cool. Finally, you can offer them fluids often to prevent dehydration. Give them small sips of water or breast milk every few minutes, and if they are old enough, offer them some Pedialyte as well.
When to Worry About a High Fever in a Newborn
If your newborn has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it’s time to call the doctor. In most cases, a fever in a newborn isn’t cause for alarm. But if your baby is younger than 3 months old, a visit to the doctor is always warranted because their immune system is still developing. Also, be sure to bring your baby in if they have any other symptoms along with the fever, such as:
- Trouble breathing
- A seizure
- Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
- Excessive sleepiness or difficulty waking up
- Not feeding well or refusing to eat altogether
- Signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, dry mouth, or few/no wet diapers
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms that may indicate a high fever in newborns. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to seek medical advice for your child as soon as possible. Remember that infants and young children can quickly become dehydrated or develop other complications from a fever, so early treatment is always preferable. By staying vigilant about their temperature and health changes, parents can ensure their little bundle of joy stays healthy and happy throughout the first few months of life.
