When to Call a Doctor for a Fever
Persistent Fever: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
When your child has had a fever for more than a day or two, it's natural to wonder if you should call the doctor. The good news? Most fevers are your child's body fighting off common infections and will resolve on their own. But knowing when to reach out for help can give you peace of mind.
What's going on?
A fever means your child's body temperature is higher than normal, usually above 38°C (100.4°F). It's actually a sign that your child's immune system is working hard to fight off an infection, most commonly a virus like a cold or flu.
Most childhood fevers last 2 to 3 days and come down as the body wins its battle against germs. However, some fevers can persist longer, especially if your child picks up a second virus while recovering from the first, or if they have a bacterial infection that needs treatment.
The duration of a fever matters less than how your child looks and acts. A child who's playing, drinking fluids, and seems fairly comfortable between fever spikes is usually doing well, even if the thermometer reads high.
What you might notice
- Temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) for more than 3 days
- Fever that goes away and comes back
- Your child seems more tired or cranky than usual
- Less interest in eating (though this is normal with fever)
- Wanting extra cuddles and comfort
- Alternating between feeling hot and having chills
What helps at home
Focus on keeping your child comfortable rather than fighting the fever itself. Offer plenty of fluids like water, milk, or diluted fruit juice. Popsicles and ice chips work great too. Dress your child in light, breathable clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
You can give acetaminophen or ibuprofen following the package directions for your child's weight, but only if they seem uncomfortable. Never give aspirin to children under 18, as it can cause a serious condition called Reye's syndrome.
Rest is crucial, so don't worry if your child wants to sleep more than usual or has less energy for play.
When to worry
Head to the emergency room immediately if your child has trouble breathing, won't wake up properly, has a severe headache with neck stiffness, or shows signs of dehydration like not urinating for many hours.
Call your doctor or text Arlo if the fever lasts more than 5 days, if your child develops new concerning symptoms like an earache or persistent cough, or if your gut feeling tells you something isn't right. Trust your instincts as a parent. Also reach out if your child is under 3 months old with any fever, or under 2 years old with a fever lasting more than 24 hours.
The takeaway
Most persistent fevers are just part of childhood and will pass on their own. You're doing great by monitoring your child and keeping them comfortable.
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 to seek medical care for your child](https://ontario.ca/page/when-seek-medical-care-your-child)