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Misconceptions about the dangers of fever are a commonplace. Unwarranted fears about the harmful side effects from fever cause lost sleep and unnecessary stress for many patients. Let the following facts help you put fever into perspective:
Myth: All fevers are bad for children
Fact: Fevers turn on the body’s immune system. Fevers are one of the body’s protective mechanisms.
Most fevers are good for sick children and help the body fight infection. The exception is babies less than 3 months of age.They should be seen by a healthcare provider right away. Use the following definitions to help put your child’s level of fever into perspective:
100°F to 102°F(37.8°C to 39°C) Low-grade fever: Beneficial. Try to keep the fever in this range.
102°F to 104°F (39°C to 40°C) Moderate –grade fever- Beneficial.
Over 104° F(40°C High Fever: Causes discomfort, but is harmless.
Over 105°F(40.6°C) High Fever: Higher risk of bacterial infection.
Over 108°F (42°C) Serious Fever: The fever itself can be harmful
Myth: Fevers cause brain damage or fevers over 104°F(40°C) are dangerous.
Fact: Fevers with infections don’t’ cause brain damage. Only the body
Temperatures over 108°F(42°C) can cause brain damage. The body
temperature goes this high only with extreme environmental
temperatures (for example, if a child is confined in a closed car in hot
weather).
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