Hello, I'm a healthcare professional with experience in pediatric care. When it comes to a baby's fever, it's important to monitor the situation closely and seek medical advice if you're concerned. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine when you should worry about your baby's fever:
1. Temperature: If your baby's temperature is
above 100.4°F (38°C), it's considered a fever. For infants under 3 months, a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) is a cause for concern and you should seek medical attention immediately.
2. Age: Babies under 3 months with any fever should be seen by a healthcare provider because they are more susceptible to serious infections.
3. Duration: A fever that lasts for more than a few days (typically more than 3 days) should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
4. Accompanying Symptoms: If the fever is accompanied by other symptoms such as **vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or a rash**, it's important to seek medical advice.
5. Behavior: If your baby is **lethargic, not eating, or unusually irritable**, these could be signs that something is wrong and you should seek medical attention.
6. Dehydration: Signs of dehydration such as **fewer wet diapers than usual, sunken eyes, or dry mouth** are serious and require immediate medical attention.
7.
Unusual or High Fever: A very high fever (over 103°F or 39.4°C) or a fever that seems unusual for your baby should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your baby's health. If you're ever unsure, don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.
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