How to treat a fever

What’s the best way to treat a fever? Is there a difference between acetaminophen or ibuprofen? Dr. Stephen Pishko, pediatrician at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, explains fever, how to treat and when to seek help.

Facts about fever

• Fever is your body’s natural response to help fight infection
• Fever begins at a Rectal temperature 104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Usually children can tolerate low grade fevers well without any significant change to their eating, sleeping or activity levels
• If your child is acting sick, that’s an indication to treat the fever.Keep the room temperature cool and drink plenty of fluids

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen?

• Treat the fever with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil)
• Don’t use aspirin with children because it can cause Rye syndrome
• Be sure to dose correctly based on the child’s age and wait
• Don’t use ibuprofen if your child is younger than 6 months or dehydrated
• Alternating between Tylenol and Advil can be a good technique every three to four hours

If your child shows serious signs of illness – severe irritability, excessive sleepiness, severe vomiting, severe headache, severe neck pain or seizures – contact your pediatrician.