HEALTH & WELLNESS January 2015
Fever: What Is In a Number?
102.4°
BY MICHAEL E. PETROSKY, M.D., FAAP
“W
hat temperature is too high?” is asked to me almost every day. I always respond, “A number is just a number.” Everyone reacts differently to a fever. I have seen quite active and playful patients with a temperature over 103°F and some appearing very ill with their temperature under 100°F. I treat only when a child is not feeling well. It is alright to have a fever, as it can be beneficial. It is a symptom that aids in the body’s defense. The next question I get is, “What about febrile seizures?” These do happen, but treating with fever reducers does not prevent them. Although scary to observe (my son has had two) febrile seizures are not dangerous. Although I don’t treat based on numbers, a few are worth noting. Fever, defined as a rectal or oral temperature 100.4°F or above, in a child under 3 months old is an emergency and medical attention should be sought. Older children should be evaluated for temperatures above 105°F or persistent fever for 5 days or longer. Dr. Michael E. Petrosky “So, what about treatment?” is the next logical inquiry. Tylenol and ibuprofen are medications that can be used to reduce fever and lessen symptoms. However, an infant has to be at least 6 months old to receive Ibuprofen. Aspirin should never be given children as it can cause Reye Syndrome. Every patient I see is different in their own way and should be treated accordingly. The same philosophy holds true for their fevers as well. F
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Northern Connection | January 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com