Baby Health Experts: The MommyDocs

Expert Bio

Dr. Jamie Freishtat and Dr. Rachel Schreiber are founders of MommyDocs (www.mommydocs.com). Between them, the two physicians are Board Certified in Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, and Allergy/Immunology. They are also wives attempting to hold together their chaotic households. And last, but certainly not least, they are moms who day in and day out love, protect, and guide their children through the daily adventures of life. Dr. Schreiber has published numerous articles in peer reviewed scientific journals, and is co-author of “Allergic Rhinitis” in Pediatric Otolaryngology. She has recently been selected as one of “America’s Top Physicians” by the Consumers’ Research Council of America. Dr. Freishtat works as a pediatric associate physician at the Children’s National Medical Center in Washington D.C., and is “on call” 24/7 for her family, friends, and community regarding any pediatric issue that may arise.

Keeping Your Cool When Baby’s Got a Fever

By the MommyDocs: Bump Baby Health Experts

Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, it’s natural to be nervous when your baby’s temperature is climbing. What do I do? Where is the thermometer? Do I even have the right thermometer? Should I call the doctor? It’s a lot to think about at a time when your child needs you the most. Here’s how to stay cool when your baby isn’t.

Chilling Out

The first thing to remember is that fevers normally aren’t a cause to panic. Fevers are the body’s natural attempt at fighting an infection. Usually, fevers in babies are due to simple viral illnesses. Once you exhale, it’s time to reach for the thermometer. (Hopefully, it’s kept in a safe place, such as the top drawer of the changing table, so you don’t have to go searching for it.) The best type of thermometer to purchase is a simple digital thermometer. This should not cost more than $7 or $8. There is no need to buy a “fancier” device, such as an ear, forehead, or pacifier thermometer. In fact, they can be much less accurate.

Taking Baby’s Temperature

In a child younger than nine months, always take a rectal temperature. This will give the most precise reading, and your pediatrician is going to want it done this way. The best way to do this is to place some lubricant, such as Vaseline or A and D ointment, on the tip of the thermometer. Then, gently slide it into the rectum until the metal end disappears, leaving it in place until the reading is complete. Don’t stress about doing this. It’s not painful for your baby, we promise! A true fever in a baby, or anyone for that matter, is 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, or 38 degrees Celsius, when taken rectally.

Keeping Baby Comfy

If your child is under three months and has a temperature equal to 100.4°F (or 38°C) or above, call your doctor immediately. Young babies need to be checked out right away if they have a fever because it may be the first sign of something more serious.

If baby’s fever doesn’t require a trip to the doctor, here’s how you can keep her comfortable at home:

Don't overdress your baby if she has a fever. A light weight onesie/outfit may be appropriate.
Never give a baby with a fever a cool or cold bath. Only use warm water if you decide to bathe her.
Be sure your baby is taking enough fluids, and never give water to a baby. You may give Pedialyte (or an equivalent), formula, or breast milk.
Keep Acetaminophen (aka, Tylenol, Feverall, etc.) and Ibuprofen (aka Motrin, Advil, etc.) stocked in your medicine cabinet for babies older than 3 months. (Call your doctor if your baby is under 3 months before giving any medication.) Always ask your doctor what the appropriate dosage is for both Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen. All medications in children are based on weight (which is constantly changing), and exact dosages are very important.
Give lots of love, hugs, and kisses (TLC).

Jamie A. Freishtat, M.D and Rachel L. Schreiber, M.D., FAAAAI are the MommyDocs.