Myths and Facts About Fevers in Children and Infants
Thursday, December 15th, 2022, 1:18 am
As a parent, it’s natural to worry about your child when they’re feeling sick. Fevers, in particular, often cause significant concern in parents of young children and infants. However, many widespread myths about fevers in children could be leading you astray.
Below, we’ve listed some of the most common myths about fevers in children, along with the facts that debunk them.
Myth #1: Fevers Are Bad For Children, No Matter What.
The Facts:
Fevers in children aren’t innately bad. In fact, a fever is a sign that your child’s immune system is working hard to ward off infection. So, in most children who are sick and over three months old, a fever between 100℉ and 104℉ isn’t a sign of a major problem.
In babies younger than three months old, a temperature of 100.4℉ or higher requires immediate medical attention.
Myth #2: Fevers in Children Can Cause Brain Damage.
The Facts:
This myth simply isn’t true: Fevers don’t cause brain damage in children or infants. While a small percentage of children with a fever may experience a seizure, known as a febrile seizure, it won’t cause brain damage or lasting health complications.
Myth #3: All Fevers Need To Be Treated With Medication.
The Facts:
Children with fevers only need fever medication if they’re experiencing discomfort. The fever won’t continue to get higher if the child doesn’t take medication, and most fevers only drop a few degrees with medication.
Myth #4: The Higher The Fever, The More Serious It Is.
The Facts:
It’s important to consider your child’s behavior and appearance before their temperature. The exact temperature isn’t the best indicator of how sick your child is.
At Suncoast Urgent Care, we offer professional medical care for kids with fevers. Contact us today to learn more, or visit one of our locations in Trinity or Spring Hill, Florida.
Category: Illness