When Medicine Doesn’t Bring a Fever Down
Fever Not Going Down After Medicine: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
When you've given your child fever medicine and their temperature is still high, it's scary and frustrating. The good news is that this doesn't always mean something is seriously wrong. Sometimes fevers are just stubborn, and there are safe steps you can take to help your child feel better.
What's going on?
Fever medicines like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) usually start working within 30 to 60 minutes. But they don't always bring fever down to normal, and that's okay. These medicines typically lower fever by 1 to 2 degrees, so a high fever might still look high even when the medicine is working.
Sometimes fevers don't respond well because your child's body is fighting hard against an infection. Viral infections, which cause most childhood fevers, can be particularly stubborn. The fever might come and go in waves, even with regular medicine.
It's also possible the dose wasn't quite right for your child's current weight, or they didn't keep the medicine down long enough if they're feeling nauseous.
What you might notice
- Temperature still reads high 1 to 2 hours after giving medicine
- Your child seems a bit better but still feels warm
- Fever comes back before the next dose is due
- Your child is fussy or uncomfortable despite medicine
- They're not drinking as much as usual
- Medicine seems to work for a few hours then stops helping
What helps at home
Focus on keeping your child comfortable rather than chasing the number on the thermometer. Dress them in light clothing and keep the room cool. Offer small sips of water, popsicles, or their favorite drinks frequently to prevent dehydration.
You can alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen if your child is over 6 months old, but only if your healthcare provider says it's okay. Never give both at the same time, and always follow the dosing instructions on the package based on your child's current weight.
A lukewarm bath or cool washcloth on their forehead can provide comfort. Let them rest as much as they want, but don't worry if they're not eating much. Focus on fluids.
When to worry
Head to the emergency room if your child has trouble breathing, won't wake up properly, has a stiff neck, or seems extremely unwell regardless of their temperature. Also go if they're under 3 months old with any fever, or if they seem dehydrated with no wet diapers or tears.
Call your doctor or text Arlo if the fever lasts more than 3 days, if your child seems sicker than expected, or if you're worried about how they look or act. Trust your instincts as a parent.
The takeaway
Stubborn fevers are frustrating, but they don't automatically mean your child needs stronger treatment. Focus on comfort and hydration, and remember that fever is usually your child's body doing its job fighting infection.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References - [Fever and temperature taking](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/feverandtemperature_taking)
- [Fever in children](https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=30&language=english)
- [When your child has a fever](https://www.ontario.ca/page/when-your-child-has-fever)