Nhs what should my babys temperature be

If your child's just had a bath or been wrapped in a blanket, their temperature may be higher for a short time. Wait a few minutes then try again.

You can usually look after your child or baby at home. The temperature should go down over 3 or 4 days. Read more about giving medicines to children.

A high temperature can lead to a child being very unwell quickly. It's important to get medical help if you need it. Page last reviewed: 21 December Next review due: 21 December High temperature fever in children. What is a high temperature? The high body temperature makes it more difficult for the bacteria and viruses that cause infections to survive.

Your child's temperature can also be raised after vaccinations, or if they overheat because of too much bedding or clothing. Complete this guide to assess fever symptoms in babies and children under 2 years of age. Return to Symptoms. Next Review Date:. If your child has a fever, it's important to keep them hydrated by giving them plenty of cool water to drink. Babies should be given plenty of liquids, such as breast milk or formula. Even if your child isn't thirsty, try to get them to drink little and often to keep their fluid levels up.

If the environment is warm, you could help to your child to stay at a comfortable temperature by covering them with a lightweight sheet or opening a window. However, they should still be appropriately dressed for their surroundings and sponging your child with cool water isn't recommended to reduce a fever.

Children's paracetamol or ibuprofen work as antipyretics, which help to reduce fever, as well as being painkillers. You can't give them both at the same time, but if one doesn't work, you may want to try the other later. Antipyretics aren't always necessary. If your child isn't distressed by the fever or underlying illness, there's no need to use antipyretics to reduce a fever. When using antipyretics, always read the patient information leaflet that comes with the medication to find the correct dose and frequency for your child's age.

Ask your doctor whether fever-reducing medicine is needed or not, and carefully follow any instructions for its use. Aspirin should not be given to children under In many cases you can care for your baby with a temperature at home, but call your doctor straight away if.

Rarely, a fever can indicate a more serious condition, such as pneumonia or meningitis that needs urgent medical attention. Rarely, a fever can trigger a type of fit known as a febrile seizure or convulsion. This kind of seizure is most common in babies and children between 6 months and 3 years of age. Witnessing your child having a febrile seizure might be one of the scariest things you can imagine; but rest assured that this type of fit is almost always harmless. When the fit subsides, your child may be sleepy for up to an hour afterwards.

If your baby has had a febrile seizure, let your doctor know as soon as you can so you can schedule a check-up. When your baby gets a fever, most of the time he or she will be back to normal within three or four days. It can be caused by common childhood illnesses like a sore throat, chickenpox or a cold, or — less commonly — by more serious conditions such as the flu or pneumonia. Always feel free to discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor or health visitor. Fever in Babies Updated May 21, What Is a Fever?

Signs of a Fever It may be difficult to tell if your baby has a fever, but if he or she feels hotter than usual, especially when you touch his or her tummy, back or forehead, it's a good idea to take his or her temperature.

What Is a Normal Baby Temperature?