Temperature fluctuations in newborn babies are a cause of concern for parents. After birth, the baby needs time to get used to external factors. Immune protection has not yet been formed, which means that various unpredictable reactions are not excluded in the first periods. Therefore, in the maternity hospital, an undesirable presence strangers. For a newborn, a common cold can turn into a significant disease, which an adult may not notice.
The lack of a developed immunity affects the processes of thermoregulation of a small organism. If in adults the temperature changes are small, then in infants the amplitude of fluctuations is quite large. Therefore, the normal temperature in a baby during the day can rise from 36.3 to 37.1 degrees. This is an absolutely understandable process.
Parents need to know that pediatricians have set clear boundaries within which temperature changes are considered natural: 36.3-37.5 C. However, remember to consult with your doctor, especially when the fever is accompanied by lethargic crumbs, poor appetite and other factors.
The norm of the temperature of a newborn child up to 1 month
If the baby has a temperature of 37 degrees in the armpit, it's okay. After a while, this figure can be 36 - 37.5 C. Note that the temperature value of 36.6 C will be established only at the end of 1 year of your baby's life.
In newborns, regulatory processes are in the process of formation. Therefore, more heat is given off than is generated. Babies often freeze, begin to hiccup, they have cold hands and feet. Therefore, babies are so easy to overheat or overcool.
In general, body temperature in a newborn is not equal for everyone. It varies in the range from 36 to 38 degrees, plus it depends on a number of physiological factors. To determine normal value body temperature of the child, it is necessary to determine it for several days in a row in the morning, at noon and in the evening. So you can set the average value of this parameter. Please note that the highest value will be between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.
How does the temperature of a child change from 1 month to 1 year (newborn)?
2-3 minutes after birth, the baby's body temperature is approximately 38 degrees. After 5-6 hours, it falls, but in the first weeks of life it remains unstable. This factor is related to the temperature in the room where the child spends most of the time.
Within 5-6 months in an infant, a temperature of 37 degrees cannot be considered a manifestation of the disease. The well-known 36.6 degrees will be established by the beginning of 2 years of life.
Therefore, pediatricians believe normal temperature in a newborn:
- 36 C - 37.3 C- fixed in the armpit;
- from 36.6 C - 37.2 C- measured orally;
- from 36.9 C - 38 C- installed rectally.
How to measure the temperature of a newborn?
Take baby's temperature in the usual way not as easy as it seems. It would be better to apply:
What temperature should be brought down in the baby?
In infants, a body temperature of 37–37.1 degrees is considered normal. A decrease in the parameter is especially important if it has reached a hyperthermic mark or is striving for it. Temperatures over 38.5 C are brought down, depending on the condition of the crumbs. Since well-being does not always necessarily coincide with the readings of the thermometer.
If the baby feels satisfactory and is alert enough, then there is no need to fight the fever. It is only important to observe the condition of the baby. If the child does not tolerate high temperature, you need to find a way to reduce it. Parents need to remember that a fever at the age of a child less than three months is considered a dangerous phenomenon. Therefore, you need to seek the advice of a specialist. Newborns need to lower the fever over 38 degrees. If there is a risk of seizures, the medicine is used already at 37.5C.
What to look for if a newborn baby has a fever?
Elevated temperature in a child without side effects, may be the norm. However, not always. In some cases, its single increase may indicate the launch of an infectious process as a response to pathogenic bacteria. For example, it could be measles or chickenpox.
In most cases, a fever is indeed a threat when there are other signals in the form of vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, and a runny nose. If the baby has a temperature of 37 and additional symptoms no, pay attention to how he is dressed and temperature regime in room. Perhaps the baby is over-wrapped and eventually overheated?
A small organism is not yet able to maintain the optimal temperature value. Therefore, it is affected by temperature fluctuations indoors and outdoors. Dehydration can cause a fever. So you need to restore the fluid balance by normalizing drinking regime, preferably boiled water.
Temperature up to 37 degrees in newborns in the absence accompanying symptoms should not be a cause of alarm for moms and dads. The reason is in the formation of thermoregulation processes. When the temperature in the baby is 38 without symptoms, a visit to a specialist is recommended. A slight fever may also be observed after the vaccination injection. Doctors believe that there is no danger in this. This natural reaction small organism.
The use of drugs is recommended in cases where the temperature reaches 38-38.5 degrees. Don't forget to consult a specialist. Give the baby more fluids, do not force him to eat. In case of heat, wiping with a damp cloth soaked in water is allowed. room temperature.
What to do if the baby has a high temperature?
Many pediatricians believe that fever should be fought if the thermometer shows a value of 38.5 C. Lower values do not require reduction. At this time, you need to create all the auxiliary conditions for a small organism:
- create a comfortable cool temperature in the room (18-19C);
- remove all excess clothing, you can also remove diapers;
- ambient air humidity should be 50-70% (wash the floors with cool water, turn on a humidifier nearby);
- give the little one a good drink of water.
To bring down the temperature of a newborn, it is forbidden to wipe with vinegar or vodka!
This can lead to severe poisoning. Only the use of ordinary boiled water is allowed. It is necessary that its temperature be several degrees lower than the body of the child. This is done to avoid vasospasm with contrasting cold water.
If the thermometer shows 38 C, heat the water to 37, take gauze or soft towel. Moisten with water and wipe the baby's body, starting with the legs and arms, and moving towards the chest. You can slightly wet the head and hair. Moisten the cloth frequently with water.
This method of dealing with fever should be in the medical arsenal of every mom. Other methods are not as reliable and effective for babies.
Many advise the use of folk antipyretic drugs for the smallest children. But, if we are talking about various multicomponent herbal decoctions, then they can be used with caution for children preschool age. For the little ones folk recipes unsuitable.
A simple cabbage leaf will help bring down the temperature in a baby. You need to attach a cold leaf of cabbage (from the refrigerator, you can at room temperature) to the child’s head, and put on a hat on top. After 1-2 hours, the sheet must be changed. He will look withered and it will become clear that he has done his job. In a couple of hours the temperature will drop by a degree, and maybe more.
How to prevent overheating in a baby? What to do?
The consequences of overheating can be different. Therefore, it is better to prevent this than to eliminate the problem later. In both winter and summer, constantly monitor the temperature in the nursery. Comfortable for children are 18-22 degrees. You do not need to wrap the baby tightly. The specified temperature value is normal, so a hat and socks are superfluous.
Do not place the crib close to heating devices, ventilate the room as often as possible. In case of illness of the baby, especially if it is accompanied by fever, increased attention is paid to water regime. During the period of malaise, children may not eat, but it is also easy to refuse to drink, which is categorically unacceptable. In this case, dehydration of the body and further overheating can occur.
In addition, you need to follow simple rules:
- go out to Fresh air every day, regardless of weather(this helps the baby adapt to the temperature difference);
- V summer heat it is better to refrain from walking between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., as well as in winter period when the temperature outside the window dropped below minus 15C;
- dress the child according to the weather (he should have as many layers of clothing as you have);
- do not buy clothes made of synthetic fabrics, it creates the effect of a bath, clothes made of natural linen and cotton are most preferable;
- for a walk, be sure to take a bottle of water and give the child more often to drink; in the heat, the amount of liquid consumed by the child increases by 1.5-2 times;
- you can bathe a baby on hot days as usual, once a day, but it is better to wash it more often up to 5 times; - for greater comfort, you should abandon disposable diapers, you can use gauze, it’s right to do without them at all.
Do not panic in case of a slight fever, remember the health of the child is in your hands. If you treat him with care from the first days of life, then in the future you will be able to raise a healthy and happy baby. Remember the importance of timely consultation with a pediatrician and monitor the condition of the baby. Joy to you, health, strong and smiling children!
When baby temperature, then this can be a symptom of many diseases (including infectious diseases), in general, the temperature in a newborn can occur for several reasons. In most cases, the disease begins with an increase in body temperature, only then other symptoms appear. But at the same time, there are often situations when the temperature rises once and for no apparent reason. In what cases is a fever in a baby normal? What to do if the baby has a temperature?
I must say that in all infants the thermoregulation center is still imperfect, so the temperature in an infant may be higher than in older children. As soon as the baby is born, his body temperature is 37.5-38 degrees C, and already a few hours after birth, the child's temperature drops by 1-1.5 degrees. By 5-6 days after birth, the temperature of an infant, as a rule, is 37 degrees - and this is the norm for a newborn.
How to measure the temperature in the baby?
There are several ways to measure body temperature in an infant, for example, in the armpit or inguinal fold, as well as in the rectum (rectal). In addition, there are special nipples-thermometers that measure the temperature in the oral cavity (orally). If you measure the temperature by the oral method, then normally it will be half a degree higher than when measured under the arm or in the inguinal fold, and when measured rectally, it will be a full degree higher.
I must say that it is still possible to measure the temperature of a newborn using ear infrared thermometers. The advantages of such a measurement are the measurement speed (2-3 seconds), the presence of a fairly small error (only 0.2 C), as well as absolute safety (this device does not contain mercury, it does not contain glasses and emitting devices). The ear thermometer should be placed in the ear canal and after a few seconds the result will be visible on the display. Thermometers of this kind are very convenient to use in such babies, in whom it is rather problematic to measure body temperature in the usual way. However, it should be noted that an ear infrared thermometer is very expensive and not every parent can afford such a purchase.
When is the best time to measure body temperature in a baby?
You can not measure the body temperature of an infant immediately after eating, as well as after bathing, gymnastics or massage - for sure it will be elevated. It is best to take the temperature approximately 15-20 minutes after all these activities.
Due to the fact that in infants the temperature regulation center is not developed, they are very easily overcooled or overheated. And I must say that overheating is much more common. If, when measuring the temperature of a baby, it is clear that it is slightly elevated, then you just need to remove one layer of clothing from him.
The normal temperature for children under 6 months is 37.2 degrees. But everything is individual, the temperature of the baby largely depends on what speed the main metabolism of his body has, for example, in some children the temperature of 37.5 degrees is also considered the norm. However, it should be noted that such a temperature is only then considered normal if it is detected during daily measurement, and also great importance has the fact that the baby has no signs of disease.
Since metabolic (metabolic) processes in the body of an infant occur quite intensively, the body temperature in the presence of a disease rises quite quickly. So, if a child has a temperature of 38 degrees on a thermometer, then after 30 minutes it will become equal to 39.5 degrees. In addition, another feature of babies is that when their temperature is above 38 degrees, then the so-called febrile convulsions occur. That is why it is necessary to reduce the temperature in the baby when it is above 37.5 degrees.
Why does the baby have a fever? Fever in an infant may be in the following cases:
- due to overheating (heat stroke) of the baby
- due to any illness of the child, for example, SARS, stomatitis, intestinal infections and so on.
- as a result of teething
- as a reaction to vaccination, stress
- due to an allergic reaction
due to neurological reasons.
I must say that if a baby has a fever, then in any case it is necessary to observe him. If the temperature has risen due to some disease, then in this case the baby develops intoxication, the child becomes lethargic, apathetic, refuses to eat, and other symptoms also appear.
When to start bringing down the temperature of the baby? How to bring down the temperature to an infant?
If a baby who is not yet 6 months old has a temperature above 37.5 degrees, then this is a reason for an immediate visit to the doctor. You can not wait until the temperature rises to 38.5 degrees, you must immediately begin treatment with antipyretics.
Do not think that the higher the child's temperature, the more actively his body fights the infection. This is wrong. On the contrary, if the baby's temperature is above 38 degrees, then this can lead to seizures in the child, in addition, the child's strength in the presence of high temperature is depleted very quickly.
The very first thing to give a baby with a fever is to drink plenty of fluids. Due to the fact that the child's sweating increases and breathing becomes more frequent, his body becomes dehydrated. That is why one of the main tasks of parents in the presence of a high temperature in their child is that they must give the child water to drink, even if he is on breastfeeding. You should offer water to the baby every 15-30 minutes - he will drink as much as he needs. It should be borne in mind that the warmer the room and the more the child sweats, the more water he needs to be given. As a drink, in addition to water, you can also use children's tea, a decoction of raisins or dried fruit compote. It is necessary to ensure that the temperature of the drink is approximately equal to the temperature of the child's body - in this case, it will be absorbed much faster from the gastrointestinal tract.
In addition, the baby must ensure the presence of cool air in the room (but not more than 20 degrees). If the child is sweating, then it is necessary to change into dry clothes. The air in the room should be cool, but the clothes should be warm.
It is very important for parents to know the following: physical cooling, such as rubbing the body with vodka, vinegar, and wrapping in a wet sheet, should not be used in babies under any circumstances. Due to such methods, sweating worsens, and spasms of skin vessels are also stimulated. Thus, rubbing the skin with vinegar or vodka is quite dangerous for such small child.
What medicines to bring down the temperature in the baby? To reduce the temperature in children under one year old, two drugs can be used: paracetamol (this includes Panadol-baby, Eferalgan baby) and ibuprofen (Nurofen). It should be noted that Aspirin is contraindicated for children under 12 years old, because its use can lead to the development of complications (for example, Reye's syndrome - acute fatty degeneration of the liver). You can also use rectal suppositories and syrup. Very good effect observed when using drugs based on paracetamol in ARVI.
All parents should know that it is necessary to use antipyretic drugs only if the child's body temperature rises. You should not give medicine in advance, by the hour. Paracetamol and ibuprofen without a doctor's examination should be given to the baby no more than 4 times a day and no more than three days in a row.
I must say that only a doctor will correctly determine the cause of the fever in an infant. In order to establish an accurate diagnosis, the doctor may need to monitor the baby in dynamics. Also, parents need to know that if a baby with a fever has a diaper that remains dry for 4 hours, and also if he has a retraction of the fontanel or if the child is sharply inhibited, then all this is a reason for an urgent call for an ambulance.
It is sad, but sooner or later every child gets sick, even babies up to a year old, who are completely breastfed. What if the baby has a fever? Lots of options and advice. Read and learn about fever in an infant. Do not take your child's temperature immediately after meals or during strong crying, it will be raised. Such a phenomenon as an increased body temperature in an infant cannot be ignored; a timely appeal to a pediatrician will help to avoid complications and significantly speed up the recovery process.
In infants, body temperature may differ slightly from the accepted standard of 36.6°C. This is especially true for newborns, for whom 37.0 ° C is the normal temperature in the first days of life. Temperature in an infant: 37.2, 37.5 what to do?
An increase in temperature in a child always worries parents. But when it jumps baby's temperature, young parents often almost panic. What should be done with fever in infants? Is it worth hitting her?
To begin with, the body temperature of a newborn baby may be slightly elevated during the first few days of life and range from 37.0-37.4°C when measured in the axilla. Finally, normal body temperature is established by the end of the first year of a child's life.
The most common cause of fever in a child is infection. Also, the causes of fever can be allergic reactions, overheating (this is especially true for infants), endocrine and metabolic disorders.
To determine, what temperature is normal for a baby, you need to measure it for several days in a row at the same time when the child is healthy and calm. In the first year of a child's life, an elevated temperature should be considered not a deviation from a temperature of 36.6 ° C, but a deviation from the figure you set.
Features of measuring body temperature in infants
There are three ways to measure the child's body temperature: orally (the thermometer lies under the tongue), rectally (introduced into the anus), in the armpits. By the way, the well-known figure is 36.6 ° C is relevant only if, if it is measured in the armpit or inguinal fold. If the temperature is taken through the mouth (orally), normal rate will be about 37.1°C and a normal rectal temperature (i.e. measured in the rectum) is about 37.4°C.
The best thing measure the temperature under the arm not with an electronic, but with a mercury thermometer- He's more precise. The child should hold the thermometer under the arm for 5-10 minutes, the child's hand should be held so that the thermometer does not fall out. For measuring rectal temperature there should be a special separate thermometer, electronic (it is safer), hold it for a minute. To measure the temperature orally, there are dummy thermometers; in this case, a mercury thermometer cannot be used either.
Fever in an infant is not a disease in and of itself.. This is just a symptom of the disease. by the most common causes fever in infants are acute bacterial and viral infections. But the temperature can also jump from overheating, emotional stress, dehydration, teething, and central nervous system damage. It can also be a reaction to a vaccine.
Temperature up to 38.5 ° C with satisfactory health should not be reduced. If your child is less than 3 months old, has respiratory or cardiovascular problems, or has a history of febrile seizures, lower the temperature to 38°C or higher. good reasons to lower the temperature with medicines are temperatures of 39°C and above, accompanying illnesses CNS or poor tolerance to heat.
Paracetamol is the main recommended remedy for fever in infants.(only you need to choose special "children's" drugs based on paracetamol). If the baby is over three months old, panadol syrup can be used.
Candles Ibuprofen for rectal use (children from 3 months to 2 years): as an antipyretic - acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, other infectious and inflammatory diseases, accompanied by fever; post-vaccination reactions. As an analgesic - pain syndrome of low or moderate intensity (including headache and toothache migraine, neuralgia, ear and throat pain, sprain pain).
Analgin and aspirin can not be used to lower the temperature! Analgin is prohibited due to toxic effects on children's body, and aspirin due to possible side effects(Reye's syndrome). But children older than one year can be given analdim - antipyretic drug based on analgin.
It is best to give the child medication in the form of candles. Firstly, little child hard to swallow the pill. Secondly, the temperature in an infant is often accompanied by vomiting, so the drug taken orally may not have time to be absorbed into the bloodstream and begin to act. Thirdly, the effect of suppositories is usually longer than that of tablets, suspensions, etc. Antipyretic drugs in the form of suppositories begin to act after 30-40 minutes, in the form of syrup - after 20 minutes.
In addition to lowering the temperature, it is very important to prevent dehydration. To do this, you need to give the child a lot to drink - water and fruit drinks. But force-feeding a child is not worth it. You also need to ventilate the room often. You can put a wet cloth on the forehead if the child does not have chills. It is impossible to bring down the temperature with alcohol rubbing: infants alcohol is contraindicated in any form!
Too much heat in a baby - this is a reason to call a doctor. You need to hurry up with calling a doctor if your child is under six months old, if you cannot bring down the temperature. You also need to urgently call a doctor at the first sign of dehydration, convulsions, rashes, drowsiness, apathy, diarrhea, vomiting, in general, any deterioration in the child's condition and the appearance of new symptoms.
Often the first sign of a baby's illness is a fever. Upon discovering her, many mothers are frightened and instantly rush into battle. On the one hand, this reaction is understandable. The younger the baby, the more fears for his health. On the other hand, the temperature does not rise for no reason. Most often, it signals the colonization of the body with an infection and the inclusion of protective forces. That is, it should not be eliminated! How to be?
normal temperature in an infant
The thermoregulation system of a newborn baby is not perfect. During the first three months of life, the child is sensitive to external temperature fluctuations, since he still does not know how to independently maintain a certain body temperature. That is why the baby quickly overheats or supercools.
The baby's temperature different time days is not the same.
- Late at night and in the morning it is minimal
- Afternoon and evening - maximum
Also, the increase or decrease in temperature is affected by physical activity, emotional rise (for example, crying), overheating, etc.
If your baby has a temperature of 37 C, do not worry, this is the norm! Moreover, even fluctuations of several degrees in one direction or another are permissible.
There is one more important point which should be taken into account by parents. Normal body temperature for a baby different areas not the same! And sometimes this difference is very significant:
- In the armpit - 36 - 37 C
- Rectal (measured in the rectum) - 36.9 - 37.4 C
- Oral (measured in the mouth) - 36.6 - 37.2 C
Sometimes there are people with special indicators of body temperature from 35 C to 38.3 C. At the same time, they feel good and for them this is an individual norm.
Advice to parents: Find out your child's normal body temperature in advance. To do this, measure it at the same time in the morning, afternoon and evening for 3 days. The baby must be calm and healthy. Write down all your results.
Now, if your baby gets sick, you can accurately determine how high the temperature is from his norm.
How to correctly and how to measure the temperature in an infant
When measuring temperature in a baby, it is advisable to adhere to the following rules:
- Use a safety thermometer! In the house it is better to have several (2-3) different types
- Consider general state baby. After eating, prolonged and strong crying, the body temperature of the infant will be higher
- Any doubts? Measure the temperature one more time (or several times) and calculate the average
There are several types of thermometers for measuring temperature in different parts of the human body.
- Mercury. It is used only in the armpit! Sit down, take the baby in your arms, place the thermometer correctly, fix it securely with your hand. Waiting time 3-5 minutes
- Electronic. More secure. Easy to handle. Used to measure oral and rectal temperature. In the armpit, it gives an inaccurate result, since in this case it is difficult to ensure close contact with the body. Waiting time 1 minute. As a rule, it is equipped with an end-of-measurement signal
- Temperature indicator. This is a strip with heat-sensitive squares or with divisions marked with numbers. During the temperature measurement, their color changes. The last changed square with the number corresponding to it is the temperature of the child in this moment. The strip is placed on the baby's forehead. Waiting time 15 seconds. Accurate result not guaranteed
- Pacifier thermometer. Suitable for mobile and nipple-bound babies
In what case should the temperature be brought down in an infant?
Finding a fever in an infant:
- Don't panic
- Measure it using any of the methods described above.
- Try to soberly assess the general condition of the baby
- If the temperature is below 38.5 C (for crumbs under 3 months - below 38.0 C), the child tolerates it normally, then you do not need to use the medicine
- If the temperature is higher than or equal to 39 C, it is necessary to give an antipyretic agent based on paracetamol once and monitor well-being. Did not help (temperature remained at the same level or increased)? Give stronger medicine
- If the child is prone to seizures, has serious illnesses cardiovascular or respiratory systems, immediately try to bring down his temperature by any means, and call a doctor!
How can a baby bring down the temperature?
Please note that a baby with a fever should never be overheated! That's why:
- Remove his diaper immediately
- Wrap him in a diaper or dress lighter
- For chills, cold hands and feet, cover with a blanket
Be sure to feed your child as much as possible. Best of all with water or fruit drinks. Feed on demand. Offer breasts more often.
Don't forget to ventilate the room.
All temperature reduction methods are divided into two groups:
- Non-medicated
- Medical
Non-medicated- provide a short-term decrease in temperature. Especially effective in infants due to the superficial location of the vessels. Do not apply for chills!
The following are the most popular:
- Rubbing with cool water (chest, abdomen, back, axillary and groin areas, elbow and popliteal folds). Be sure to let it dry!
- Wet diaper wraps
- Bathing in a bath in lukewarm water
- Wet cloth on the forehead
- Compresses (contains only water and a little vinegar)
- At prolonged absence stool - cleansing enemas from clean water room temperature
Medical- This is the use of drugs that have an antipyretic effect.
Paracetamol (Panadol, Efferalgan) is given first. Release form at your discretion - syrup, suppositories, suspension. It is applied after the child is one month old.
In the second - Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Ibufen). Any form of release. It is used after the child is six months old, no more than three days (because complications are possible!). Be sure to follow the instructions!!!
Calling a doctor with a temperature in an infant
Before her arrival:
- Try to remember in detail all the methods of treatment and medicines that you have already tried in action. It's better to get it all on paper.
- Also write down the temperature indicators (time and method of measurement, digital indicator)
You need to call a doctor immediately if:
- The temperature in the armpit is more than 38 C / 38.5 C
- The child has a chronic illness
- Convulsions began, the neck is tense (the chin does not bend down to the chest)
- The child has not eaten anything for more than 6 hours in a row
- He is very lethargic and cries all the time.
- A severe runny nose began
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- A rash appeared on the skin
- There is no urine for a long time or it has changed color dramatically
- The methods used to reduce the temperature did not give the desired result.
The younger the baby, the sooner it needs to be shown to the doctor.
Additional facts about the temperature in an infant
In conclusion, I would like to note that the temperature in infants sometimes does not correspond to the severity of the disease. The reason for this is the imperfection of its protective functions. Therefore, he can react to the disease in different ways: a strong or moderate increase in temperature, its decrease. There are also times when the temperature remains normal.
However, remember: the success of treatment always depends on the timeliness of taking measures to combat the disease.
In this article, we will consider everything related to the temperature in a newborn. What body temperature is normal for a newborn, how and where to measure the temperature of a newborn, what to do if a newborn has a temperature.
What is body temperature
Body temperature is an indicator of whether thermoregulation is normally carried out in the body, how much heat is generated, and how much is given out. The mechanism of stable thermoregulation does not start working immediately, the baby is born with a “non-configured system”. Therefore, children under three months old cannot maintain a constant body temperature themselves, and are very sensitive to fluctuations in environmental temperature. That is why a child (much faster and easier than an adult) can overheat or overcool too much.
The imperfection of the thermoregulation system also explains the frequent rise in temperature in the first week after birth. Thus, the baby adapts to existence outside the mother's belly. In this case, an increase in temperature up to 38-39 degrees can be observed. This phenomenon is called transient hyperthermia.
By the age of 3 months, the process of thermoregulation in a child is improving, and the baby has its own “schedule” of temperature changes during the day. You need to understand that the temperature of different parts of the body varies, and take this fact into account when measuring.
What temperature in newborns is considered normal
- Armpit, 36-37 degrees.
- Oral cavity 36.6-37.2°.
- Rectum 36.9-37.4°.
- Ear canal 36-37°.
It should be noted that parents must fix the norm indicators for their particular child themselves by measuring the temperature during the period when the baby is healthy and calm (during the day), and at the same time does not sleep. It is advisable to measure the temperature of a child without a diaper.
How to understand that a newborn has a temperature
- The child sweats a lot, at normal (usual) room temperature.
- He drinks a lot and is thirsty all the time.
- Signs of dehydration: dry lips, tongue.
- Frequent breathing.
Note. A newborn takes approximately 40-60 breaths per minute. By the year, the respiratory rate decreases to 25-30 breaths.
- Frequent pulse.
Note. Normal heart rate is 100-130 beats per minute when baby is sleeping, 140-160 beats per minute when awake, 160-200 beats per minute when baby is crying. Also, it should be borne in mind that in babies up to 1 month, the pulse is more frequent, 110-170 normal limits, and in babies from 1 month to a year a little less often - 102-162 normal limits.
- Bright blush, "burning cheeks."
- Sometimes, on the contrary, uncharacteristic pallor.
- Red, shining eyes.
- Chills.
In order to understand if the child has a fever, you need to touch his forehead with his cheek or lips. If you feel an increase, then you need to measure the temperature with a thermometer (described below).
Why does a newborn have a fever
The temperature in a child can rise to 38.3-38.4 degrees, and at the same time not indicate an illness. Consider this group of reasons.
Non-infectious fevers
- Child overheating. Overheating can also be caused in a room with a normal temperature, if the child is “wrapped up”. And also the cause of overheating can be the very environment of the child (for example, if you take him in a hot car, even undressed). If it's hot around, then even such a seemingly trifle as a diaper can cause overheating, as it covers about 30% of the newborn's body.
Note. Often young children overheat on the beach. We wrote about it separately, now we just note that if the air temperature is above 30 degrees, then the child “in this air” does not belong. It is necessary to organize life in such a way that it is possible to find a cooler place for the child to rest.
- A child between the ages of 0 and 6 months may react with a fever to the fact that he did not drink enough liquid.
- If a child has constipation, it can cause a fever.
Note. If a child has a disorder (diarrhea), then this, most often, is also accompanied by a temperature, but the reason is different, so the disorder will be discussed below.
- Moved too much and too hard. This is more true for children aged closer to a year. But there have been cases before. For example, a child may react with an increase in temperature to the fact that they began to engage in it (too intensively) or they are conducting it.
- After a long cry (weeping).
- If the child is teething.
- Sometimes a child may react with an increase in temperature to an excess of impressions. For example, if a child is “dragged” all day long in unfamiliar places, with a lot of everything new, then by the evening he may have a fever as a reaction to the emotional and sensory overload of the body.
Consider a group of reasons when fever is a sign of a disease.
infectious fevers
- Colds (ARVI).
- (measles, rubella, mumps, etc.).
- Intestinal infections.
- Inflammatory processes of ENT organs, as well as lungs, kidneys, etc.
- Disorders of the CNS.
Where to measure the temperature of a newborn
We list the "places" for measuring temperature.
- Armpit, inguinal cavity.
- Oral cavity.
- Rectum.
- ear canal.
It must be remembered that the temperature of these areas is different. The highest temperature is in the rectum. In the mouth it is lower than in the rectum by 0.2-0.3 degrees. In the armpit (and in the ear canal) it is lower than in the rectum by 0.3-0.6 degrees.
How to measure the temperature of a newborn
It is very important to measure the temperature of a child correctly, because the result depends on it, and the actions taken depend on the result.
Measurement of temperature in the armpit or groin
This measurement can be carried out with a mercury thermometer, and with an electronic thermometer. About the types of thermometers - below.
- The child needs to be calmed, after crying at least 20 minutes should pass.
- Check if the armpit is dry. If there is sweat, then you need to wipe it dry with a napkin.
- We knock down the thermometer. So that it does not seem too cold to the child, you can slightly warm it in your palm.
- We put the thermometer so that its tip is completely under the armpit. We press the child's hand to the body, and wear it in this position for 8-10 minutes. After that, you can see the result.
Measurement of temperature in the rectum
- The child needs to be calmed, put on his knees, head to himself.
- Spread legs apart.
- Lubricate the anus with baby cream, and also lubricate the tip of the thermometer with baby cream (previously knock down mercury). Insert the thermometer into the anus by 2 cm, and hold in this position (and the thermometer, and the baby, and his legs) for up to 3 minutes.
Measuring the temperature in the mouth
This measurement is carried out with an electronic thermometer.
You need to insert a thermometer under the child's tongue and hold for 1 minute (or until the signal).
How to measure the temperature of a newborn with a mercury thermometer
A mercury thermometer gives the most accurate readings. It is used to measure temperature in the armpit and inguinal cavity. The child needs to be calmed, after crying at least 20 minutes should pass.Check if the armpit is dry. If there is sweat, then you need to wipe it dry with a napkin.We knock down the thermometer. So that it does not seem too cold to the child, you can slightly warm it in your palm.We put the thermometer so that its tip is completely under the armpit. We press the child's hand to the body, and wear it in this position for 8-10 minutes. After that, you can see the result.
How to measure the temperature of a newborn with an electronic thermometer
It is used to measure temperature in the armpit, groin, mouth and rectum. Duration - until the thermometer signal. There is a special kind of electronic thermometers for measuring temperature in the ear canal, lasting 4-5 seconds.
Note. Depending on the model electronic thermometer, the instructions for it may recommend holding the thermometer for another 15-30 seconds after the signal (to improve the accuracy of measurements). Pay attention to the instructions for your thermometer.
How to measure the temperature of a newborn with a temperature indicator
The temperature indicator (a strip with squares) is now rarely used, since it does not accurate results. The temperature indicator is simply applied to the child's forehead. Duration - until the result is manifested.
How to measure the temperature of a newborn with a pacifier thermometer
The thermometer-nipple measures the temperature in the mouth, the duration is up to 5 minutes.
What to do if a newborn has a temperature
- If the temperature is elevated for a non-infectious reason (overheating, drinking a little, crying a lot, etc., described above), then the cause of the temperature increase must first be removed.
- In case of overheating - move the child to a cool place, undress the child, give him a drink. For constipation, recommendations are described in the article. With stress, crying - soothe, give a drink, attach to the chest.
When temperature rise is not dangerous
If the increase is caused by non-infectious causes (above), the temperature is not higher than 38 degrees, and there are no manifestations from the “danger list”, below.
When temperature rise is dangerous
- a temperature of 38 and above is observed in a child up to 3 months.
- the temperature in the armpit is above 38 degrees. Call either your local doctor or an ambulance.
- temperature is accompanied by convulsions. The body is tense, eyes roll back, limbs twitch. Call an ambulance immediately.
- already had convulsions, then call an ambulance when the temperature rises to 38, even if there are no convulsions right now.
- the child's breathing is fast or noisy. If breathing is irregular.
- a child has a severe runny nose at a temperature, a stuffy nose.
- when breathing, sounds like wheezing are heard.
- the baby cries all the time.
- the child is lethargic, does not react to anything.
- the child is vomiting or upset.
- the child does not urinate for a long time.
- when urinating, the color of the urine is not normal.
- a rash or spots appeared on the skin, in general, if the appearance of the skin has changed.
- the child does not eat anything at all for more than 8 hours.
- prescribed antipyretic drugs do not work, and the temperature rises again.
Why is a high temperature rise dangerous?
Up to a certain "threshold" temperature rise plays a protective role. In the process, the production of immune defense proteins is activated, the growth and reproduction of bacteria is reduced. But, after 39-39.5 (individually), the provision of tissues with oxygen decreases, the metabolism and vital activity of the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system suffer. One of the symptoms of this is.
How to bring down the temperature in a newborn
Non-drugs
- The child can be wiped (with a washcloth dipped in warm water). Necessarily warm water, not cold water, not vinegar, and not alcohol.
- You can wrap the baby in a diaper soaked warm water. When the water has cooled, the diaper is removed.
- On the forehead, you can put a napkin moistened with cool water.
Medicines
It is impossible to use medicines to lower the temperature in a newborn yourself. The question of the application of any medicines the doctor decides.
Depending on what exactly caused the fever, the doctor may prescribe the following drugs.
Antipyretic. Paracetamol-containing (such as Panadol) and not containing paracetamol, such as Viburkol suppositories.
With the viral nature of the disease, Interferon preparations may be prescribed.
If bacterial in nature, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Rules for caring for a child with fever
- There must be fresh air in the room. It is necessary to periodically ventilate the room (while taking out the child). It is better to keep the air temperature around 20 degrees. It is better to turn off electric heaters, if any.
- If you have a humidifier, turn it on.
- It is not recommended to put a child with a temperature on polyethylene (under a sheet, on a mattress). Polyethylene will additionally "add" heat.
- If it is impossible to cool the air in the room, then it is better to remove the diaper from the child.
- No need to cover and "wrap" the child.
- Don't worry if your child doesn't eat much. This is fine.
- Be sure to make sure that the child drinks a lot (but in small portions so as not to induce vomiting). You need to drink every five minutes, you can give some water from a syringe without a needle, just a few sips.
- If the child is sleeping, do not wake him (if not dangerous symptoms: wheezing, convulsions,).
Parents are often very nervous when a child, especially a small one, has a fever. Remember that in young children both deterioration and improvement occur very quickly.
At any time of the day or night, it is necessary to maintain the temperature and humidity conditions in the baby's room, so install high-quality air for the baby.
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Health to you and your baby!