Tips

Fevers. They are scary because we don't understand how the body works but the body is AMAZING so let's learn a bit about this natural process. When your child has a fever, do you run to your medicine cabinet and give them that good 'ol pink syrupy cherry flavored medicine, or grape, to ease their pain? No judgement. Seeing our babies suffer is one of the hardest things we endure as parents. And we want to fix their pain, immediately! I get it, and we have ALL been there. But I learned many years ago that fevers are actually very beneficial and suppressing them can cause more harm than good. So, let's dig in... 

Did you know that having a fever is actually a GOOD thing? While they can be uncomfortable, draining and scary at times, fevers are the body’s natural response to fight bacteria and pathogens, aka infection. When we understand how the body works and the reasons behind the fever, we can feel much more at ease when our child spikes a temperature, instead of feeling nervous and afraid because we don't know what is happening. 

A fever might make you feel uneasy as a parent, but it’s actually one of the body’s most powerful tools for healing! Here’s why fevers aren’t something to fear — they’re an essential part of your child’s natural defense system.

When your child has a fever, their body is cranking up the heat to create an environment that’s less friendly to harmful bacteria and viruses. Most of these invaders thrive at normal body temperature, so the rise in heat helps slow their growth and gives your child’s immune system the upper hand. Think of it as the body’s way of turning up the thermostat to flush out the bad guys.

A fever is like an alarm system that activates your child’s immune response. When body temperature increases, it signals the production of white blood cells—the superheroes of the immune system. These cells actively hunt down and destroy bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens. The fever supercharges this response, making the immune system more effective.

Your child’s body is smart. A fever often signals the need to slow down and rest. Resting provides your child’s body with the energy it needs to focus on healing rather than expending it on daily activities. This natural pause supports faster recovery and ensures your child’s systems are operating at full capacity to fight off the infection. This is also why suppressing a fever, with OTC medicines can prolong a sickness, or make the illness stronger because you are stopping the process of killing the pathogens

A lesser-known benefit of a fever is the release of what are called “heat shock proteins.” These specialized proteins start working during a fever to help repair damaged cells and tissues. They also make immune cells more effective at recognizing and eliminating harmful invaders.

The increased body temperature during a fever enhances blood flow and circulation. This improved circulation helps transport toxins for elimination and supports the body in flushing out unwanted substances. It’s as though the fever is helping to clean house while battling illness!

Fevers are a critical part of the immune system’s learning process. When your child’s body mounts this natural response, it is gathering valuable information about the invader, which strengthens immunity in the long run. Each encounter with an infection makes the immune system quicker and more efficient at responding the next time. This is because your blood cells have memory and if enchanting these bacteria and pathogens again, they fight them off much quicker

It’s important to note that fevers caused by common infections are closely regulated by the hypothalamus, which acts like the body’s thermostat. This mechanism ensures the fever doesn’t reach dangerously high levels in most cases, making mild to moderate fevers (up to 103°F/39.5°C) generally safe and beneficial.

While fevers are beneficial, there are moments when monitoring is essential, especially for infants or if the fever lasts more than a few days.

In general, a fever is considered a body temperature that's higher than normal. While the average normal body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), a normal temperature range is between 97.5°F (36.4°C) and 99.5°F (37.5°C). Most doctors consider a temperature above 101°F (38.3°C) as a sign of a fever. 

Body temperature can vary with age, activity level, hydration, environment, and even the time of day. Infants tend to have higher temperatures than older children and temperatures are highest between late afternoon and early evening, and lowest between midnight and early morning. 

Check in with your healthcare provider for guidance if you’re unsure. Always go with how your child is behaving, a high fever doesn't always mean they are feeling worse. Sometimes a child can have a lower temperature and be very lethargic. You, yes YOU mama, know your child best. But remember, in most cases, the fever isn’t the problem—it’s a sign that your child’s body is working hard to heal itself.

You can help make your child more comfortable by ensuring they stay hydrated, providing light clothing, and encouraging rest. Rather than rushing to lower a low-grade fever with medications, consider letting it run its course under close observation. Your child’s body is working for them, not against them.

If your child's fever is running high and you feel you need to intervene, you can keep them comfortable while not truly suppressing the fever with these few tips

Remember, fevers are truly an incredible example of how our bodies protect and heal themselves naturally. By understanding their purpose, you can feel more confident and empowered the next time your child has one. 

xo,

Rachael