Your child’s doctor will talk with you about specific care for your child. In general, not all fevers need to be treated. Some reasons to treat a fever include if your child:
- Is not comfortable when the fever is high.
- Will not drink enough fluids when the fever is high.
- Give acetaminophen (Tylenol® or other less costly store brand). Follow the directions on the box carefully or ask your child’s doctor how much medicine to give.
- This is often the only medicine a child with fever needs to feel better.
- It may take 60 to 90 minutes for these medicines to work.
- Do not give acetaminophen to babies under 3 months of age without a doctor’s order.
- Do not give your child more than 5 doses of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period.
- If you give your child the correct dose of acetaminophen every four hours and he is still not comfortable, you may give him ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil® or other less costly store brand) every six hours instead. If you do this, stop giving him the acetaminophen.
- Do not give ibuprofen to babies less than 6 months of age without a doctor’s order.
- If your child has chickenpox, asthma, kidney problems or bleeding problems, ask your
child’s doctor before giving ibuprofen.
- Follow the directions on the box carefully or ask his doctor how much medicine to give.
- Do not give any aspirin.
- Check with your child’s doctor or pharmacist before giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen with other medicines. This includes over-the-counter medicines.
- Tell your child’s doctor if your child is taking any vitamins, herbal products or other supplements or home remedies.
- Dress your child very lightly. Do not bundle or cover with a blanket.
- Give him lots of cool liquids.
Continue Learning about First Aid For Medical Emergencies & Conditions
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.