Q: My 14-month-old's temperature has been rising and falling for 5 days. Is this normal?

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Question: My 14-month-old baby's temperature has been rising and falling throughout the day for the past five days. It seems to rise again at midnight, but she remains active. I gave her teething syrup for the first three days. Is this fluctuating temperature normal?

Answer: It’s great to hear that your baby is active—that’s usually a good sign. However, let’s clarify what’s happening with her temperature:

Is It a Fever? A fever is typically defined as a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher. If her temperature is below this but feels warm to the touch, it could just be normal temperature variation, which can fluctuate throughout the day and rise slightly at night. Babies also tend to feel warmer during activity or after crying.

What You Can Do: * Measure Her Temperature: Use a reliable thermometer (rectal, ear, or armpit) to check if it’s truly a fever. * If it’s under 38°C (100.4°F) and she’s active, it may not be concerning. * If it’s over 38°C and persists, further evaluation is needed. * Hydration and Rest: Ensure she’s drinking fluids well and getting enough rest. Even active babies need downtime to recover. * Stop the Teething Syrup: Teething typically causes mild discomfort and low-grade fever (below 38°C). Persistent or high fevers are unlikely to be caused by teething alone.

When to See a Doctor: * If her temperature consistently rises above 38°C (100.4°F) for more than 5 days. * If she shows additional symptoms like irritability, poor feeding, rash, diarrhea, or lethargy. * If you’re unsure whether the fluctuations are normal or related to an underlying condition.

Final Thoughts: If her temperature seems high but she’s active and otherwise well, it’s reassuring, but tracking the temperature accurately will help determine the next steps. Let me know if you’d like guidance on how to measure or interpret the temperature readings

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