Baby Fever Doesn't Go Down With Tylenol
As a parent, it can be scary when your baby has a fever. You want to do everything in your power to make them feel better. One of the first things many parents reach for is Tylenol. Unfortunately, Tylenol doesn't always bring a baby's fever down.
What is a fever?
A fever is when your baby's body temperature rises above their normal range. A normal temperature for a baby is between 97°F and 100.3°F. Anything over 100.3°F is considered a fever.
A fever is your baby's body's way of fighting off an infection. It's not always a bad thing. However, if your baby's fever is very high or lasts for a long time, it's important to seek medical attention.
Why doesn't Tylenol always work?
Tylenol (acetaminophen) is a fever reducer and pain reliever. It works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and fever. However, it doesn't always work for everyone.
One reason Tylenol may not bring down a baby's fever is that the fever is caused by a virus. Tylenol only works on fevers caused by inflammation. Viral fevers are caused by a virus and don't usually cause inflammation.
Another reason Tylenol may not work is that your baby's fever is too high. Tylenol is only effective up to a certain temperature. If your baby's fever is very high, Tylenol may not be enough to bring it down.
What can you do instead?
If Tylenol isn't bringing your baby's fever down, there are other things you can do to help them feel better.
Make sure your baby is getting plenty of fluids. Babies can become dehydrated quickly when they have a fever, so it's important to keep them hydrated.
Dress your baby in lightweight clothing and keep the room cool. This can help bring their body temperature down.
Use a cool compress on your baby's forehead or give them a lukewarm bath. This can also help bring their body temperature down.
When should you seek medical attention?
If your baby's fever is very high (over 104°F), lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms (such as vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash), it's important to seek medical attention.
Your baby's doctor can determine the underlying cause of the fever and recommend the best course of treatment. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary to treat a bacterial infection.
Conclusion
While Tylenol can be a helpful tool in bringing down a baby's fever, it doesn't always work. If your baby's fever isn't responding to Tylenol, there are other things you can do to help them feel better. And if your baby's fever is very high or lasts for a long time, it's important to seek medical attention.