My 5 mo old has been running a temperature for the last few days. It's been exactly 100.3 every time I check it (rectally). We both had a cold last week, but seem to have overcome that. I don't feel a tooth coming in and she has been her normal, happy self. Her feeding hasn't changed, and her sleeping has actually gotten better in the last few days. Should I be worried? I read where that a baby's normal temperature can range from 98 - 100.5. If this is the case, she is normal. What would you think? I guess I can call the pediatrician, but like I said, she acts completely fine!
I think she is fine. Whenever I have a question like this I go to my pediatrician's website and hit FAQs. They have a spot where you can click on a drop down menu for the symptom, e.g., FEVER, then it will give you the whole low-down on what to expect and when to call the pediatrician. It's great.
Go to crownpointpediatrics.com and check out FEVER, it will outline in detail for you.
Good luck!
Rectal temps are higher:
for age 3 and under:
the upper limit of normal rectal temperature is 100.4
the upper limit of normal oral (or armpit) temperature is 99.2
I would say she is not running a fever
Hi D.P
Yes babies do have a slightly higher temperature. If she is behaving as if she is ok that is a good indicator. When they cry and fuss that is when you really have to worry. Has she just had a shot? That can cause a fever too. When she is definately sick you will know it. If you are worried take her to the doctor. I think it is always good to get a second opinion if you are worried. Never be embarrassed about caring about your baby. I have a child with autism and I evan had a health care nurse tell me he was normal and that I was just over mothering. I knew I was right. Trust your own instincts and take her to the doctors if you are worried.
Congrats new mommy
100.3 rectal temp is not a fever
When you take a temp. rectally you are suppose to minus a degree so technically her temp is 99.3 which is nothing. I wuld worry only if it goes up much higher and her behavior/ feeding is not normal.
