Should you treat a child's fever with medication (Tylenol)?

Question:

I have heard that a fever serves a purpose. By heating up the body, it kills the infection or virus. I know many people give their kids tylenol as soon as their kid gets a fever. This makes the child more comfortable but also lowers the fever. My daughter has a 102.3 temp right now. What should I do?

Answers:
That is partially true, but you also must not allow it to go too high, as that may also cause damage.

probably treat above 100.5 oral temp.

you did not say the age of your child

Tylenol elixir is good and you may also use Motrin elixir with it if the temp is unusually high but be sure to follow the instructions for each med.

Other Answers:
it will help lower the temp

call a pharmacy
There are certain medications that cannot be given to children

Our pediatrician has stated that medication should be given only if a fever is over 101 degrees farenheit. You might want to call your pediatrician to see what his/her preference is. Try giving her Childrens tylenol and have her lay down under a sheet or blanket so she sweat out the fever. That's what my mom always did for me a child and it usually works. But if it gets worse I would suggest taking her to the hospital. Good Luck

Westie..you should call your pediatrician..children who experience high fevers.those above 102 f, can become comatose.yeah they can, and I'm certain you do not want that. Fever occurs when the body’s immune response is triggered by pyrogens (fever-producing substances). Pyrogens usually come from a source outside the body and, in turn, stimulate the production of pyrogens inside the body. Pyrogens tell the hypothalamus to increase the temperature set point. In response, our body begins to shiver; our blood vessels constrict (close); we get under the covers in an attempt to reach the new temperature that is higher than our baseline. Fever in excess of 102 can cause brain damage in children. While Tylenol may not be the best solution out there, you must do something.

Usually if the fever is under 100 you should leave it. If its over you can try wet washcloths in the hot zones ie: armpits, groin area,neck. That can lower the temp to a more comfortable temp. I usually wait till night to give anything but if its that high give her tylenol. Depending on age i prefer childrens motrin

if my kid had a temp. of 102.3 id be calling hospital or doc for advice.not wasting time here..what are u waiting for.for her to get worse?!

Here are two links about children and fever.

http://www.chop.edu/consumer/your_child/wellness_index.jsp?id=-8873

http://www.dcchildrens.com/dcchildrens/home_stories/bearfacts.aspx

My pediatrician has told me unless the fever is very high or my children are uncomfortable that giving something for the fever is not needed.

Tylenol or children's Motrin works well to control temperature. Children can get extremely high temperatures and even seizures with them. Make sure your daughter is getting plenty of liquids because children with a fever can get dehydrated very easily. If she also is vomiting and has diarrhea then dehydration may require treatment at the hospital.
If medication helps the fever but it keeps coming back, you should take her to the doctor to discover the source of infection - viral vs bacterial in case antibiotics are needed. Sometimes antibiotics are over-prescribed leading to antibiotic resistant bacterial organisms - so doctors are often now trying to see if things clear up on their own first. Your doctors may have guidelines that they want you to follow - so you can call the office and they will tell you.

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Should you treat a child's fever with medication (Tylenol)?

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