Fever in babies can be very dangerous and therefore it is essential to know what features to take into account when it appears. When the temperature rises the body is throwing a warning signal, it is warning that an infection is starting. Fever is a defense mechanism of the body and in the vast majority of cases it is a consequence and not a problem in itself.
That is to say, the fever does not constitute any risk for the baby, in principle, but the cause of it can have major consequences. Especially seriously in babies who do not yet have a strong immune system and their defenses are not yet fully prepared. Now all kinds of temperature rise fever itself is not considered.
When is fever in babies
Body temperature rises when it has to defend the body from infection, or other causes. But sometimes you just need a few tenths. This is what is considered a low-grade fever and in babies it is determined by taking the rectal temperature. A normal rectal temperature in babies is one that does not exceed 37,6º. Between 37,6º and 38º The child is considered to have a low-grade fever.
From 38º is when it is understood that the baby has fever real. Generally episodes of fever last between 1 and 3 days in babies and it is an increase in temperature caused by a viral infection. When it comes to very young or lactating babies, it is important to go to the pediatrician's office to assess the situation, since in certain cases fever can be a warning sign of other major problems.
As for the best way to take babies' temperatures, what pediatricians recommend is as follows. Babies under 3 months of age have their temperature taken in the armpit or the forehead. This is a safety measure because the most reliable way is by placing the thermometer in the rectum. However, in such a small baby incidents can occur that are best avoided. From one year on, the most reliable way is the rectal or forehead temperature, and from one year on, it can be transferred to the armpit. Go to the pediatrician's office if in addition to the fever you observe other symptoms.