It’s Not Just the Number on the Thermometer

It’s Not Just the Number on the Thermometer

Dr. Nancy Snyderman, a respected physician and medical correspondent, reminds parents that a child’s behavior is more important than the temperature reading itself. A child with a 103°F fever might be playing and eating normally, while another with a 100.9°F temperature might be cranky, tired, and miserable.

It’s all about how your child is feeling and functioning. You know your child best, so trust your instincts and comfort them as needed. If they’re uncomfortable, a dose of children’s acetaminophen (Genexa) or ibuprofen can help ease their symptoms. But if they’re resting well and staying hydrated, it’s often okay to let the fever do its healing work.