Q: My 10-month-old's fever hit 104°F. After medicine, it's 102.2°F. Should we go for an IV?

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Question:

My 10-month-old baby has had a high fever since yesterday, ranging between 100.4-102.2°F (38-39°C). We went to the doctor today and got a prescription. After a nap, my baby's temperature spiked to over 104°F (40°C). I immediately gave the prescribed medicine. It's been about an hour and a half, and the fever is now down to 102.2°F (39°C). The baby isn't lethargic, but I'm worried. Should I take them to get an IV drip, or should I just continue with the medication and wait it out?

Answer:

It must be very alarming to see such a high fever in your 10-month-old.

【Summary of the Current Situation】

• The fever dropped from 104°F (40°C) to 102.2°F (39°C) within 1.5 hours of taking the medication, and your baby is not lethargic. This indicates the medicine is working.

• Fever reducers typically reach their maximum effect over 2–3 hours, so it's okay to continue monitoring for now.

【What to Do at Home Right Now】

• Offer small, frequent sips of water, breast milk, or formula every 5–10 minutes.

• Dress your baby in a single, thin layer of clothing and keep the room cool.

• Do not use wet towels or lukewarm water baths to cool your baby down. This can cause shivering, which may raise their temperature.

• Monitor their urine output (number of wet diapers). No urination for more than 8 hours is a sign of dehydration.

【See a Doctor or Go to the ER if You Notice Any of the Following】

• Lips turning blue, difficulty breathing, or the area below the ribs sinking in with each breath.

• Unable to make eye contact or is difficult to wake up.

• No urine for over 8 hours, crying without tears, or has a very dry mouth and tongue.

• Remains lethargic or is unusually fussy even after the fever comes down.

• A new rash appears that does not fade when you press on it.

【Regarding Alternating Medication】

• Check if the prescribed medication is acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

• If one type of medicine is effectively reducing the fever, there is no need to alternate.

• If your baby is still uncomfortable after 4–6 hours, give another dose according to the prescribed interval.

• Alternating can be confusing and lead to errors. Only do so if specifically instructed by your doctor.

【When is an IV Drip Necessary?】

• If your baby is drinking enough fluids by mouth and producing urine, an IV is not necessary.

• If signs of dehydration appear (see above) or your baby cannot keep fluids down, a doctor will determine if an IV is needed.

Call the clinic that prescribed the medication today. Tell them, "My baby's fever reached 104°F, and it's down to 102.2°F after the medicine. Is it okay to continue monitoring at home?" If it's after hours or a holiday, contact a local urgent care center or use your insurance provider's 24-hour nurse hotline.

Try the home care tips above, and observe for any changes in the fever or your baby's behavior over the next 2–3 hours so we can assess the next steps.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us