Skip to content
Free shipping on orders above €30
Ordered on working days before 23:00 is shipped today
My baby has a fever, what to do?

My baby has a fever, what to do?

Your baby feels a bit warmer and is fussy. Is it a fever? Where does it come from and what can you do? Don't panic! We have some information and tips that might help you.

Fever vs. high temperature

A normal body temperature of a baby ranges between 36.5 and 37.5 degrees Celsius. Between 37.5 and 38 degrees Celsius, it's an elevated temperature that can cause your little one to be a bit more fussy and wanting to be close to you. Above 38 degrees Celsius it is called a high fever. Often you notice that your child has red cheeks, feels warm and wants to sleep a lot.

How does it happen?

A fever can have various causes. Teething, vaccinations or viruses can all cause fever. In most cases, a fever is a sign that the body is fighting something. Especially when your baby goes to daycare, different bacteria and viruses (they experience for the first time) can make your baby sick a bit more often in the first year. 

What can you do?

In most cases there is no reason to worry. Although it's hard to see your baby uncomfortable, fever is also a good sign that the body is working hard to combat an illness. Here are a number of things you can do to speed up recovery:

  • Give your baby plenty to drink. It is fine if they eat little, but fluids are important because your child loses more of it through the heat than normal. Under 6 months it's not recommended (even dangerous) to give your baby water or other fluids apart from breastmilk or formula.

  • Don't dress them too warmly. The body needs to get rid of its heat, so go for light clothing and possibly layers that you can easily put on and take off.

  • Make time to cuddle with your little one and comfort him or her. Your presence helps.

  • Try to let them rest or sleep as much as possible. Being sick takes a lot of energy.

  • If you notice that your baby is in pain or has difficulty falling asleep, you might consider giving him or her a painkiller. Pay close attention to the amount, as this depends on the age or weight of your child.

When to call the doctor?

If your parental instinct tells you that something is not right, you can always call your GP. Even on weekends or holidays you can always reach a doctor's emergency clinic.

A number of things that indicate direct action:

  • If the fever quickly turns into a high fever and rises at a rapid pace

  • Your baby is drowsy or lethargic and you cannot easily wake them

  • Your child is inconsolable

  • Little to no wet diapers

  • Your baby has a febrile seizure

  • The fever lasts longer than three days

  • Red spots appear on the body that do not disappear when pressed

Previous Post Next Post