I’m a doctor — here are 3 things I wish every parent knew about fevers

Fevers are frightening for both our little ones and us as parents.

But according to Dr. Katie, an emergency doctor who’s seen it all, there are a few things she wishes every parent understood about treating them.

Parents worrying about their child’s temperature is something she sees all too often, so she’s taken to TikTok to help ease those fears.

The fever isn’t the true danger

The first thing? The thermometer.

“The number on the thermometer is not the most important thing,” she begins.

“What we care about more is how your child looks and how they’re acting.”

Temperament plays a big part in the severity of their condition. 

“Some kids with a really high fever are not that sick, and some children with a barely there fever are much sicker,” Dr. Katie explained. 

The next thing she wishes parents knew is to “focus on hydration.” 

Keeping fluids up is crucial. 

“If your little one is drinking and weeing and they’ve still a little bit of energy, that is usually a good sign,” she said. 

She says that a fever itself isn’t a danger; however, dehydration is. 

Trust your gut

The final tip she has for worried parents is: “trust your gut.” 

‘If your child is drowsy, or breathing fast, or not taking in any fluids, then go and get some medical help. You know your child best.” 

The comment section loved her tips, with many parents reflecting on their own experiences with fever. 

“I would have loved more education about fevers when my first was a baby. We had some panicked trips to the hospital that probably weren’t necessary,” one mother reflected. 

Another agreed: “As an anxious mom, I need to listen to this over and over again.”

“Wise words. I never went by the thermometer, always by how he was acting. Trusting your gut is great advice,” a third added.

Raising Children Australia advises that a fever in children is when their body temperature is higher than 38°C. 

They note that most mild fevers can be safely managed at home with rest, fluids, and comfort. 

Parents are also encouraged to see a doctor if their baby is under three months old and has a fever, or if older children show signs of dehydration, persistent vomiting, breathing difficulties, or unusual sleepiness.