Fever in a child is a sign of illness, most often infection. The child’s age, breathing, hydration, alertness, skin colour and associated symptoms are as important as the temperature. Young infants and children with chronic or immune conditions need a lower threshold for assessment.
WHICH DOCTOR SHOULD I SEE?
See a paediatrician for fever in children
At Lotus Hospital in HSR Layout, fever in children is assessed by the Paediatrics team. For severe or sudden symptoms, go to the nearest emergency department or call 112.
Paediatrics
Dr. Jyothi A.
Also listed as Dr. Jyothi Reddy
- Qualifications
- MBBS, MD (Paediatrics)
- Experience
- 10 years
- Fee
- ₹700
- Registration
- KMC 103502
Fever, cough and common illness · Feeding, growth and development · Rashes and allergies · Immunisation and routine reviews
What to observe
Record how the temperature was measured, how long fever has lasted and whether the child is drinking, urinating, interacting and breathing comfortably. Note rash, pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, cough and medicines given.
A child who plays or responds normally between fever episodes is different from one who remains difficult to wake or looks progressively ill.
- Age
- Temperature method and pattern
- Alertness
- Breathing effort
- Fluids and urine
- Rash, pain or other symptoms
When fever is urgent
Urgent signs include difficulty breathing, blue or very pale colour, seizure, stiff neck, a rash that does not fade under pressure, severe dehydration, persistent vomiting, confusion or a child who is difficult to wake. Very young infants with fever need prompt medical guidance.
Trust caregiver concern when the child appears significantly different from usual. Do not wait for an online appointment response in an emergency.
- Breathing difficulty
- Hard to wake
- Seizure
- Non-blanching rash
- Very low urine or inability to drink
- Rapid deterioration
Comfort and medicine safety
Offer fluids and avoid over-wrapping. Fever medicine can improve comfort but does not treat the cause. Dose according to current weight and product concentration, using the supplied measuring device.
Do not give aspirin to children unless specifically prescribed. Avoid alternating medicines without clear professional instructions, as dosing errors are common.
- Prioritise fluids
- Use weight-based dosing
- Record dose and time
- Check duplicate ingredients
- Avoid leftover antibiotics
- Store medicine safely
Clinical assessment
The paediatric clinician uses age, history and examination to decide whether urine, blood, respiratory or other tests are needed. Antibiotics are used for likely or confirmed bacterial disease, not fever alone.
- Source-focused examination
- Hydration assessment
- Targeted testing
- Age-specific risk
- Clear home-monitoring plan
- Return precautions
Medical information is general and does not replace an individual consultation.
PATIENT QUESTIONS
Fever in Children: questions patients ask
When should I take my child to a doctor for fever?
See a doctor if your baby is under three months with any fever, if fever lasts more than two to three days, if your child seems unusually unwell, is not drinking, is passing much less urine, or has a rash, ear pain, breathing difficulty or a stiff neck. Trust your instincts if something seems wrong.
What temperature counts as a fever in a child?
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher is generally considered a fever. How your child looks and behaves often matters more than the exact number. A child who plays and drinks well with a high temperature may be less unwell than a drowsy child with a lower one.
How can I care for my child’s fever at home?
Offer plenty of fluids, let your child rest, dress them in light clothing and give paracetamol or another fever medicine at the correct dose for their weight if they are uncomfortable. Avoid cold sponging. Check on them regularly, including at night, and watch for warning signs.
Does every fever need antibiotics?
No. Most fevers in children are caused by viral infections that get better on their own, and antibiotics do not help viruses. Antibiotics are needed only when a doctor finds or strongly suspects a bacterial infection. Unnecessary antibiotics can cause side effects and resistance.
When is a child’s fever an emergency?
Seek emergency care immediately if your child has difficulty breathing, a seizure, is very drowsy or hard to wake, has a rash that does not fade when pressed, a stiff neck, blue lips or signs of dehydration, or is a baby under three months with fever. Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Which doctor should I see for my child’s fever at Lotus?
A paediatrician can assess your child, find the likely cause and advise on treatment. Book online with a paediatrician listed on the Paediatrics page, send a WhatsApp message, or call the care team on +91 80505 98999. Note the temperature readings and any medicines already given.
LOCATION & DIRECTIONS
Getting to Lotus Hospital, HSR Layout
Lotus Multi Speciality Hospital
2361, 24th Main Road, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102
Near Bangalore One, HSR Layout 1st Sector
Open 24 hours, 7 days · OPD timings vary by doctor
Lotus is on 24th Main Road in Sector 1, near Bangalore One. Autos and cabs can drop at the entrance on 24th Main.
Head into HSR Sector 1 from the Agara Lake side of the Outer Ring Road and continue to 24th Main Road.
Take the Sarjapur Road or 27th Main HSR approach towards Sector 1, then turn onto 24th Main Road.
Travel along the Outer Ring Road towards Agara, enter HSR Layout Sector 1 and continue to 24th Main Road.
Use the Outer Ring Road from Silk Board towards HSR Layout and turn into Sector 1.
Cross from Hosur Road into HSR Layout through the Sector 7 side and continue north to Sector 1.
Come towards Agara and the Outer Ring Road junction, then into HSR Layout Sector 1.
Take Hosur Road to Silk Board, then the Outer Ring Road into HSR Layout. Best for planned visits.
Travel time changes with traffic. Check live directions before you leave and allow time for registration.