Low-Grade Fever in Infants

When infants get a low-grade fever, many parents panic and start worrying that something is seriously wrong with their baby. Though the fact remains that it is a common occurrence among infants and is not always harmful. Many of you will be surprised to know that a low-grade fever does not have any negative impact on the baby. When the normal functioning of the body gets affected due to some reasons say germ attack, then the body raises its temperature to fight off the harmful substance which is causing the imbalance.

Temperature Range for a Low-Grade Fever
Like in adults, the body temperature often varies from one infant to another. In general, it can be said that when the body temperature of an infant is in between 97F and 99F, then it is normal. When it rises above normal but is below 101F, then it is categorized as low-grade fever. Now, the body temperature of an infant can be taken both orally as well as rectally. You may notice a slight variation between the temperatures taken orally and rectally. Most doctors believe that the temperature taken rectally is more accurate as compared to that taken orally. When the rectal temperature of an infant is in the range of 100.4F and 100.9F, then it is a low-grade fever. On the other hand, the oral temperature that goes above 99.5F but less than 101F is a low-grade fever.

Causes
Low-grade fever can be a sign of an infection in infants. However, sometimes, it can be triggered by some other factors as well. Commonly found causes are as follows:

• Upper respiratory infection which is characterized by sore throat, stuffy nose, cough, etc.
• Infection in the gastrointestinal tract triggered by either virus or bacteria. Here, the fever is accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting.
• Teething is another major cause of low-grade fever in infants. The teething time for infants usually starts when they are 3 months old. At this stage, the body temperature may rise slightly. Moreover, the gums appear red and swollen and they try to bite or suck everything.
• Chickenpox, a viral infection where small fluid filled blisters appear on skin surface.
• Measles, a viral infection that can be identified with blotchy skin rashes along with fever.
• Mumps, where the salivary glands are attacked by virus. As a result, the salivary glands on both sides of the face get swollen and they get puffy cheeks.
• Urinary tract infection (or UTI)or bladder infection. In few cases of UTI in infants, there may not be any symptom other than fever. Others may get symptoms like strong smell in urine or cloudy urine.
• Low-grade fever is common after certain types of immunization. This fever lasts for one or two days and then subside on its own.

Treatment
There is a misconception among parents that if low-grade fever in children is left untreated, it may turn into a high grade fever. This is far from the truth. It is not necessary that you have to treat the fever. Sometimes, lowering the body temperature does not help at all because the body raises its temperature to eliminate some germs from the body. However, a low-grade fever in a newborn child should be taken seriously and a doctor should be consulted immediately. Similarly, persistent low-grade fever in infants should not be overlooked.

In case the baby is of 3 months or above, it is advisable that parents keep a close watch if there are some other symptoms that are accompanying the fever. The activities and alertness of the baby should be monitored. Take a look if the baby is responding when you are trying to comfort him or her. Whether the baby is taking foods or not. They should check the temperature after a gap of every one hour. If you notice any other symptoms or change in behavior of the child, then take him or her to the doctor without delay. They will ascertain the cause and treat the condition successfully.

When it is due to a harmless causes like teething, you have to provide a little bit of care and comfort to the baby. If your child has chills, cover up the body so that he or she does not shiver. This is because shivering can raise the body temperature further. A cold compression with the help of a washcloth damped with water can bring a lot of relief from the discomfort. Place the wet washcloth on your baby's forehead, neck, armpit and groin repeatedly. Placing the baby in lukewarm bath can also lower the body temperature. Fever reducing medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are safe for infants but ask your doctor before administering them.

So, next time, when your child develops a mild fever, just do not fret. Rather, think rationally and take necessary steps to prevent any further aggravation of the symptoms. Most importantly, cuddle your baby as much as possible because nothing is more comforting for them than your warm, cozy touch!