Does the child have a fever of 39.5 degrees?

Satunnainen

A fever of 39.5 degrees in a child can be a sign of a serious illness, but it is not always a reason to panic. Fever is the body’s natural reaction to infections and other illnesses, and it helps the body fight pathogens. In this article, we discuss what a fever of 39.5 degrees can mean in a child, when it is necessary to see a doctor and how a fever can be treated at home.

What does a fever of 39.5 degrees mean?

Fever is usually defined as a body temperature above 38 degrees. In children, fever can be caused by many different reasons, such as viruses, bacterial infections, vaccinations or other inflammatory conditions. 39.5 degrees is a high fever and can be a sign of a more serious infection or illness.

When to see a doctor?

Although fever itself is not always dangerous, it is important to know when to see a doctor. In the following situations, it is recommended to contact a healthcare professional:

  • Age: In babies under three months of age, a fever is always a reason to see a doctor.
  • Duration of the fever: If the fever lasts more than three days, it is good to see a doctor.
  • Symptoms: If the child has other serious symptoms, such as breathing difficulties, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, constant vomiting or diarrhea, it is worth seeing a doctor.
  • General well-being: If the child is very tired, irritable or does not react normally, it is good to see a doctor.

Care procedures to be performed at home

If the child has a fever of 39.5 degrees, but does not seem seriously ill, you can try the following home remedies:

  1. Adequate hydration: Make sure the child drinks enough water, juice or soup to prevent dehydration.
  2. Light clothing: Dress the child lightly so that the body can dissipate heat more efficiently.
  3. Resting: Let the child rest and sleep enough.
  4. Medication: You can give the child a fever-reducing medicine, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, but always follow the doctor’s or the package’s instructions.

Summary

A fever of 39.5 degrees in a child can be worrying, but it does not always mean a serious illness. It is important to monitor the child’s general condition and other symptoms. If you are unsure or concerned, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional. You can find more information about fever treatment and when to see a doctor, for example, at Terveyskirjasto and From the website of the Mannerheim Children’s Protection Association.

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