What is High Fever in Children?

In children, body temperature  can be measured in various locations, including the armpit, ear, skin surface  , and  rectum  . The normal body temperature of a healthy individual is, on average,  36.7°C . Values ​​above this are considered a fever.

• Armpit measurement:  37°C and above is considered a fever.
• Ear measurement:  37.2°C and above is considered a fever.
• Rectal measurement:  Fever of 38°C and above is accepted.

An increase in body temperature is a response of the immune system. This increase in temperature helps fight and destroy microorganisms. Therefore, a fever of a certain degree should not be feared or treated immediately. However, if the fever rises rapidly and  exceeds 39°C , it can damage brain cells. In such cases, intervention is necessary, and  the child should definitely  be seen by a doctor in the emergency room.

Causes of Fever in Children

Fever in children can have many different causes. Common causes include:

Infectious Fever

The most common causes  are viral  and  bacterial infections .

• Viral infections:  Flu, cold, rotavirus, chickenpox, measles.
• Bacterial infections:  Urinary tract infection, pneumonia.

Fever is an important indicator that the body is fighting these microbes.

Post-Vaccination Fever

A mild fever may occur after some vaccines. This is a natural immune response to the vaccine and usually resolves on its own.

Immune System Response

When fighting infections, the immune system increases body temperature to prevent microbes from multiplying.

Teething

Babies may develop a mild fever during teething. However, this usually  remains below 38°C (100.4°F)  and is not a serious health problem.

Hyperthermia (Heat Stroke)

Extremely hot weather or dressing your child in thick clothing can increase body temperature. Caution is especially important during the summer months.

Digestive System Problems

Digestive problems such as diarrhea and constipation can also cause fever.

Symptoms of Fever in Children

In addition to fever, the following symptoms may occur:

• High fever (38°C and above):  Chills, sweating, weakness, restlessness.
• Weakness and fatigue:  Loss of energy, desire to sleep.
• Vomiting and diarrhea:  Nausea and digestive problems.
• Dry mouth and thirst:  Dehydration caused by prolonged fever.
• Pains:  Headache, muscle, joint and abdominal pain.
• Skin color changes:  Paleness or redness.
• Chills and shivering.

Degree and Severity of Fever in Children

• Mild fever (37.5°C – 38°C):  This is usually seen in simple viral infections. Rest and fluid support at home are sufficient.
• Moderate Fever (38°C – 39°C):  May be a sign of more serious infections and should be monitored.
• High fever (39°C and above):  This may be a sign of serious infection, and medical attention should be sought immediately.

What Reduces Fever in Children? How to Reduce Fever?

The goal of treating fever in children is to reduce fever and provide comfort. Recommended methods for fever treatment include:

✅ Use fever-reducing medication

Paracetamol  and  ibuprofen are commonly   used to treat fever in children. However, these medications  should be administered under the supervision of a doctor  and  at the recommended dosage  .  Aspirin should never  be used.

✅ Removing Clothes

As the fever rises,  the child develops a fever and shivers  . The first thing to do is to remove the child's excess clothing, assuming they are cold. If necessary, leave the child in only light clothing.

✅ Consume Plenty of Liquids

Children  with fever  should be given plenty of water ,  fresh fruit juices  , and  electrolyte-containing fluids  to prevent fluid loss due to   sweating after the fever  . This helps prevent dehydration.

✅ Applying Warm Compress

To reduce fever,  cloths soaked in warm water  can be applied to certain areas of the body (neck, armpits, and groin, where major blood vessels pass). Avoid using very cold water; this can cause shock.

✅ Bed Rest

Children with fever should get plenty of  rest  . Physical activity can raise their fever, so   it's important to rest in a quiet environment .

✅ Room Temperature Control

The environment  should be neither too hot nor too cold  . The room should be regularly ventilated and the child should be provided with a comfortable environment.

When Does Fire Become Dangerous?

In the following cases,   emergency intervention under the supervision of a specialist physician is absolutely necessary:

• Children who have had seizures or convulsions before   ,
• Loss of consciousness  and  tendency to sleep along with fever   ,
•  Children with congenital  heart disease ,
•  Fever accompanied by rash ,
• Persistent fever over 40°  C  ,
• Intense  fluid loss  and  confusion ,
•  Children diagnosed with lung disease ,
•  Children with diabetes .

Things to Consider in Case of Fire

In which cases does fever in children require emergency intervention?

• Fever  is 39°C or above  ,
• Seizures, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing with fever,
• Severe headache, stomach ache or skin rash,
• Fever  exceeding 38°C in babies aged 0-3 months .

Magnet Hospital  specialists support parents in treating fever in children and  offer rapid solutions using modern medical methods through its pediatric emergency facility.

 For appointments and detailed information:

  magnethastanesi.com.tr

  0312 212 8080

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common causes of fever in children?

Viral infections  (flu, cold) are  the most common  . Bacterial infections  (pneumonia, urinary tract infections), post-vaccination reactions, and  teething  are also common causes.

Does teething cause fever?

Yes. Teething can often cause a mild fever. However, this fever is usually  below 38°C (100.4°F)  . For higher fevers, another cause should be investigated and a doctor should be consulted.

At what temperature should you consult a doctor?

• If fever in children  rises above 39°C  or  lasts longer than 3 days,  a doctor should be consulted.
•  If the fever  exceeds 38°C in babies aged 0-3 months,  a health facility should be consulted immediately.

What symptoms occur when a child's fever rises?

Tremors, sweating, weakness, restlessness, loss of appetite, headache, vomiting, diarrhea and changes in skin color may occur.

What medications can be used to reduce fever?

Paracetamol  or  ibuprofen can be used with the advice of a pediatrician   .  Aspirin  should never be given to children because it can cause serious side effects.

How to treat a child with fever at home?

It is recommended that the patient drink plenty of fluids, wash with warm water, and keep the room cool. Rest should be provided.

How is fever treated in children at Magnet Hospital?

Pediatricians will determine the cause of the fever and, if necessary, begin treatment for the infection. Modern and safe methods are used to ensure the child's comfort.

What should be considered in case of fever in babies?

The baby's general condition should be closely monitored, and a doctor should be consulted if the fever exceeds 38°C. Infants should not be given medication without a doctor's recommendation. Warm compresses can be applied to reduce fever   .

Where to measure fever in children?

1. Rectal Measurement

Rectal measurement is considered the most reliable method, especially for newborns and young infants. The thermometer is carefully inserted into the rectum, and a reading between 36.6 and 38.0°C is considered normal. While this method provides the most accurate measurement of core temperature, it can be uncomfortable for the child and requires careful hygiene, so it's not recommended for all ages.

2. Oral Measurement

Oral thermometers are typically used in children ages 4 and older. The thermometer is placed under the tongue, with the child's mouth closed. Normal readings range from 35.5 to 37.5°C. However, readings can fluctuate due to factors such as oral infection, recent fluid intake, or gum chewing.

3. Axillary (Underarm) Measurement

The axillary thermometer is the easiest and most commonly used method. The thermometer is placed in the armpit and measured by covering the arm. Normal readings range from 34.7 to 37.3°C. While practical and safe, it is less accurate than other methods because it is affected by environmental factors.

4. Tympanic (Ear) Measurement

Ear thermometers are a popular choice, especially among school-aged children, due to their quick and convenient nature. A specially designed thermometer is inserted into the ear canal, and a reading between 35.8 and 38.0°C is considered normal. For accurate results, the ear must be clean and free of infection or blockages.

5. Temporal (Forehead) Measurement

Forehead infrared (non-contact) thermometer measurement is a hygienic and practical method. The normal range is between 36.1 and 37.8°C. It is especially preferred for quick scans and for sleeping children. However, device accuracy, ambient temperature, and measuring distance can affect the results.

What are the symptoms of fever and diarrhea in children?

Fever and diarrhea are often  symptoms of intestinal infections (gastroenteritis) in children  . These infections can generally be caused by viruses (e.g., rotavirus, norovirus), bacteria (e.g., salmonella, E. coli, shigella), or parasites. While a fever indicates the body is fighting the infection, diarrhea is a response to inflammation or microorganism overgrowth in the digestive tract.  Food poisoning, disruption of the intestinal flora due to antibiotic use, and certain immune system or intestinal diseases  can also cause diarrhea and fever. Infants and young children, in particular, should be closely monitored because this can lead to dehydration. If they experience frequent vomiting, bloody diarrhea, or a high fever, they should immediately seek medical attention at the pediatric emergency department.  Pediatric emergency departments are located in many  private  and public hospitals in Ankara .

What causes fever and headache in children?

When fever and headache occur together in children, it's usually a symptom of a respiratory infection. Among the most common causes are:

• Upper respiratory tract infections (cold, flu, pharyngitis): In these cases caused by viruses, fever, sore throat, cough and headache may occur together.
• Sinusitis : Headache and fever may develop due to nasal congestion and inflammation, and coughing increases especially at night.
• Otitis media: It may occur after an upper respiratory tract infection; it is accompanied by fever, irritability and headache, and cough may also be included in the picture.
• Pneumonia or bronchitis: In more serious lower respiratory tract infections, the cough may be severe, the fever high, and the headache intense.
• Viral meningitis or serious infections: This is a rare but important possibility; if severe headache and fever are accompanied by cough, it should be carefully evaluated.

 When these symptoms occur together, especially if there are additional findings such as high fever, neck stiffness, vomiting, and respiratory distress,  a pediatrician should be consulted urgently.

What temperature is dangerous for children?

The degree of fever in children is assessed according to age and accompanying symptoms:

• A temperature above 37.5°C is generally considered a fever.
• Fever of 38°C and above should be closely monitored in babies and young children.
• A temperature above 39°C is considered high fever and may indicate a serious risk of infection.
• A fever of 40°C or higher is very high and requires immediate medical attention, especially in infants and young children.
• 41 °C and above (hyperpyrexia) is a dangerous level; hospitalization should be sought immediately as it can lead to serious complications.

 Any fever above 38°C (100.4°F), especially in babies under 3 months, requires immediate medical attention. In older children, regardless of the severity, if the fever is accompanied by neck stiffness, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, seizures, or altered consciousness, medical attention should be sought immediately.

What should be the armpit temperature?

The normal value  should be between 34.7 and 37.3 °C, with an average of 36.5

Is 39 degrees fever dangerous in babies?

Yes, a fever of 39°C (100°F) in babies is considered dangerous and should be closely monitored. This level of fever, especially in babies under 6 months, can be a sign of a serious infection. A fever of 39°C (100°F) in babies:

• Increases the risk of dehydration,
• Febrile convulsions may occur,
• It may be a sign of a serious bacterial or viral infection (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, meningitis, etc.).

 In babies under 3 months, any fever above 38°C is an emergency.
 In babies between 3 and 12 months, a fever above 39°C should definitely consult a doctor.

In short, a fever of 39 degrees in babies should not be expected on its own; fluids should be monitored immediately, appropriate antipyretics should be given ( with the recommendation of a pediatrician  ), and a health care provider should be consulted as soon as possible.

What should be done if children have a fever that does not go down despite antibiotics?

If fever does not decrease despite the use of antibiotics in children, this may occur for several different reasons and should be evaluated carefully:

• Wrong antibiotic selection or resistant bacteria
  – The antibiotic used may not be effective against the bacteria causing the infection or the bacteria may have developed resistance.
• Viral infection
  – Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria; fever does not come down with viral infections.
• Deep or systemic infections
  – In serious bacterial infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, meningitis, and sepsis, fever may persist for a long time.
• Other illnesses accompanied by fever
  – Rheumatic diseases, autoimmune diseases or inflammatory conditions can also cause fever that does not go away with antibiotics.
• Wrong dose or insufficient duration of treatment
  – ​​If the antibiotic is not given at the correct dose and for a sufficient duration, the infection may not be controlled.

If the fever is over 39 °C, lasts longer than 3 days, or is accompanied by serious symptoms such as headache, neck stiffness, respiratory distress, or rash, it is necessary to immediately   apply to  a hospital or  private hospital with a pediatrician for further examination and testing  .

What should be the normal fever in children?

Normal body temperature in children varies depending on the measurement site:

• Rectal measurement: 36.6 – 38.0 °C
• Oral measurement: 35.5 – 37.5 °C
• Axillary (armpit) measurement: 34.7 – 37.3 °C
• Ear (tympanic) measurement: 35.8 – 38.0 °C
• Forehead (non-contact infrared) measurement: 36.1 – 37.8 °C

A temperature of 37.5°C or higher is considered a mild fever, while a temperature of 38°C or higher is considered a high fever. The measurement method and the child's age are important when interpreting normal values.

Why does fever not come down in children despite giving antipyretics?

If a fever doesn't subside despite using antipyretics, this usually indicates that the body is fighting a serious infection or inflammation. Several possible causes come to mind:

• Bacterial infections: Fever may be persistent in conditions such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, meningitis, and sepsis.
• Viral infections: Some viruses such as influenza, adenovirus, and RSV can cause high and prolonged fever.
• Non-infectious causes: Immune system diseases, rheumatic diseases or some drug reactions may not reduce fever.
• Wrong dose or insufficient medication effect: If the antipyretic is not given appropriately for the child's weight or if it rises again before the effect of the medication wears off, the fever may not be brought under control.
• Dehydration and thirst: Not drinking enough fluids makes it difficult for the body to regulate its temperature.

If the fever is between 39 and 40°C and cannot be controlled despite antipyretic medication, it is important to seek immediate  medical attention  , especially in infants and children  . This could be a sign of a serious infection. The source of the infection should be identified by conducting the necessary tests.

What Should Be Done If Fever Does Not Go Down Despite Antipyretics?

• Take the temperature again
  – Confirm the temperature by taking a thermometer (rectal measurement is most accurate).
• Rehydrate
  – Give plenty of water, breast milk, or fluids containing electrolytes. Dehydration can make fevers worse.
• Keep clothes light
  – Avoid dressing the child in thick clothes, prefer cotton and light clothes.
• Apply lukewarm water
  – Gently dabbing with lukewarm (not cold!) water or taking a lukewarm shower can help reduce fever.
• Check medication dosage
  – Make sure the fever reducer (paracetamol, ibuprofen, etc.) is given in the correct dose according to the child’s weight.
• Pay attention to medication intervals
  – Do not give the same medication more frequently than every 4–6 hours. Two different antipyretics can be used alternately with a doctor's recommendation.
• Look for accompanying symptoms
  – If you experience any serious symptoms such as neck stiffness, severe headache, persistent vomiting, confusion, rash, or shortness of breath, seek emergency help.
• Consult a doctor
  – If your fever is higher than 39–40 °C, does not come down despite using a fever reducer, or lasts longer than 3 days, consult a doctor.

A temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) is considered an emergency, especially in babies under 3 months.
Persistent fever in children can be a sign of serious illnesses such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, meningitis, or sepsis.

What is a persistent fever in children a symptom of?

If a child's fever doesn't come down despite antipyretics, this usually indicates that the body is fighting a serious internal problem or infection.

Is it effective to reduce fever with lemon?

Lemon, thanks to its high vitamin C content, is a natural food that supports the immune system, cools the body, and protects against infection. When a fever rises, it's recommended to drink plenty of fluids to maintain body temperature, and lemon water can be beneficial in this regard. Lemon's refreshing effect not only quenches thirst but also helps reduce fever by supporting the body's natural cooling mechanism. Furthermore, the antioxidants and antibacterial properties in lemon contribute to immune support in fighting infections that can cause fever. However, lemon alone is not a treatment; if a fever is very high or persists for a long time, it's essential to consult a doctor.

When should you go to the emergency room for a fever?
If your fever is over 39°C, if it can't be brought down, if you have serious symptoms such as weakness, changes in consciousness, or shortness of breath, you should go to the emergency room.

When should a child be taken to the emergency room for a fever?
 If the fever is above 38-39°C, the child should be taken to the emergency room. Even if the fever is low in babies under 3 months, if the fever persists, the child should be taken to the emergency room.

Which hospital in Ankara has the fastest fever emergency room?
 You can compare the hospital's equipment, location, and workload, and choose from nearby hospitals that offer 24-hour emergency services.  Magnet Hospital,  with its central location and easy access, may be your preferred choice.

How much does a fever consultation cost in a private hospital?
Fees  for fever or emergency room  consultations in private hospitals  may vary depending on the hospital, clinical department, and city center.

What tests are performed for fever in the emergency room?
Tests such as a complete blood count (CBC), CRP , WBC, urinalysis, chest X-ray, and, if necessary, bacterial cultures may be performed. The cause of the fever and its effects on the body are investigated.

Is emergency fever treatment free in private hospitals? The cost of emergency examinations in private hospitals generally  varies depending on
your health insurance, the private hospital's social security institution  (SGK) agreement , and  private  insurance agreement.

Which hospital is recommended for fever in children in Ankara?
You can go to university hospitals,  private hospitals, or  state hospitals' pediatric outpatient clinics or emergency rooms.

Does the emergency department prescribe antibiotics for fever?  If infection is suspected, the doctor may prescribe appropriate antibiotics; antibiotics are not prescribed for every fever.

What should be done if the child's fever doesn't break in the emergency room?
The child will be closely monitored. The doctor may order additional tests, IV drips, or hospitalization may be necessary.