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A fever in a young child can be very frightening to a new parent. But as time goes by, even new parents begin to realize that fever will probably happen quite often, and in most cases is nothing to worry about. Normal temperature can vary. Normal body temperature runs somewhere between 36 to 37.5°C (97 to 99°F). It will vary from child to child. It also can vary depending on what time of day you take the temperature, and what type of thermometer you use. Your child's normal body temperature changes slightly throughout the day - usually lower in the morning and higher in the evening. Also, the more physically active your child is, the higher his or her body temperature is likely to be. A fever is merely a symptom. The important question is "what is causing the fever?". To understand that, first we should look at exactly what happens in the body to make temperature rise. Fever is part of the infection fighting process. As your child's body defenses - particularly the white blood cells - go into action to fight infection, they release a special fever-producing chemical called pyrogen.
Pyrogens work in the brain by resetting the body's thermostat to a higher temperature than normal. In order to raise the body's temperature, the brain spreads a message throughout the body to "conserve heat". The main way the body conserves heat is by constricting the blood vessels in the skin, the body's primary heating and cooling system. Chills often occur just prior to the onset of fever. After the fever appears, the body tries to cool down by forcing blood to the skin by flushing and sweating. Why small children get fever quite often. Most children's fevers are caused by infection. And because children's immune systems haven't had a chance to develop fully, very young children are more likely to get infections. Also, frequent exposure to other children can increase the chances of picking up an infection. To help your child feel better and reduce the fever, your doctor will probably suggest using a children's fever medication. Children's TYLENOL* acetaminophen is the first choice of pediatricians for children with fevers. It is also highly recommended as the first choice for the safe and effective relief of pain.
There is also Children's MOTRIN*, which is a good choice for high fever and tough pain, strains or sprains. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about what is best for your child.
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