Should I take my child to the ER for 104 fever?
Amelia Brooks
Updated on March 26, 2026
Should I take my child to the ER for 104 fever?
But if your child has a 103° F fever, is lethargic and isn’t eating or drinking, then he or she probably needs to be seen by the doctor. Also call your child’s doctor if your child has a fever of 104° F or higher or if he or she has had a fever for 4 or more days in a row.
What fever is too high for a 2 year old?
If his or her temperature is above 100.4 degrees, it is time to call us. For children ages three months to three years, call us if there is a fever of 102 degrees or higher. For all kids three years and older, a fever of 103 degrees or higher means it is time to call Pediatrics East.
How do you treat a 104 fever in a child?
Alternating Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen
- Use both if the fever is over 104° F (40° C) and unresponsive to one medicine alone.
- Give a fever medicine every 4 hours (acetaminophen every 8 hours and ibuprofen every 8 hours).
- Only alternate medicines for 24 hours or less, than return to a single product.
When should I take my 2 year old to the ER for a fever?
For babies and toddlers between the age of 3 months and 3 years, visit the pediatric ER if the child’s temperature is above 102.2 degrees, or if the child is displaying these symptoms: Difficulty waking up. Not urinating. Unable to keep fluids down.
Is 104 fever bad?
Once a fever goes beyond the high level, an adult enters dangerous fever levels (104 F – 107 F). Once a fever reaches the dangerous level, also known as hyperpyrexia, it is a medical emergency and you should seek medical care immediately.
Is 103.1 a high fever for a child?
Normal body temperature is around 98.6°F, though it may fluctuate slightly higher or lower throughout the day. A fever starts with any temperature that reaches 100.4°F or above. A temperature between 100.4°F and 102.2°F is considered a low-grade fever; a temperature above 102.2°F is considered a high fever.
Is 104 temp high for a baby?
Call your pediatrician if your baby’s temperature drops below 97.7 F rectally. Your child’s fever lasts more than five days. Your pediatrician may need to investigate further for underlying causes. Your child’s fever is higher than 104 F (> 40 C).
What causes a fever of 104?
The most common causes of high fever are infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and infections of the urinary tract. In rare cases, fevers can occur without any infection as a result of arthritis, lupus, or certain gastrointestinal and vascular disorders.