Fever in Children |
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DESCRIPTION
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Fever is a symptom, not a disease. It is the body's normal reaction to an infection. The fever helps fight the infection. A fever does not cause long-term problems until it reaches 107 degrees F (41.7 degrees C). A high fever may sometimes cause convulsions (seizures). Your child has a fever if: The mouth temperature is higher than 99.5 degrees F (38 degrees C). The rectal temperature is higher than 100.4 degrees F (38 degrees C). The armpit temperature is higher than 98.6 degrees F (37 degrees C). Exercise, a hot bath, too much clothing, and hot weather can raise a child's temperature. Drinking or eating warm foods can also cause the temperature to rise. Wait 30 minutes and take the child's temperature again.
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CARE
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Immediately If... The child develops a rectal temperature higher than 105 degrees F (40.6 degrees C). Your child has a seizure, develops abnormal movements of the face, arms, or legs, or has difficulty breathing.
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