Question
My baby has been running a fever recently. After taking fever-reducing medicine last night, he seemed a bit better this morning, but by the afternoon, his temperature rose again to around 38℃. The thermometer is broken, and the new forehead thermometer we bought gives inconsistent readings—sometimes 38℃, sometimes 39℃, and sometimes around 37℃. I touched his forehead and it didn’t feel very hot, but his body felt warm and his feet were cold. Why is this? Moreover, it seems like my baby isn’t feeling well; he’s sleeping earlier than usual. Is this normal?
Answer
A fever of 38 to 39 degrees Celsius in children is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections, so it’s best to go to the hospital immediately to have the doctor check the cause of the fever and provide appropriate treatment. During a fever, a child’s mental state may not be as good and they may be more prone to napping in the afternoon, which is understandable. I hope these suggestions are helpful to you, and wish you and your baby health.