Understanding fever in babies with a hot head and cold body: causes and symptoms

When your baby starts to show a hot head and cold body, it can be worrying for parents. The first thing that usually comes to mind is fever. Although this is often the case, there are sometimes other explanations behind these signs. This article will help you understand the common and less common aspects of this situation. We will also walk you through the steps for caring for your poorly child.

Common causes of a hot head and cold body in babies

Fever is certainly the most likely cause when your baby has a hot head and cold body. There are several reasons why your child might develop a fever, including:

Viral or bacterial infections: respiratory conditions and ear infections are common examples of infections that can cause fever in your baby.

Vaccinations: reactions to vaccines are generally harmless, but they can cause a temporary fever in some infants.

Teething: the emergence of new teeth can lead to a slight rise in your child's body temperature.

Other possible explanations for a hot head and cold body

Though less common, there are other reasons why your baby might present with a hot head and cold body. Here are a few examples:

Dehydration: dehydration can cause a sensation of warmth around the forehead and colder limbs in infants.

Body temperature regulation: babies can struggle to regulate their own temperature, particularly in the first weeks of life. This can result in a feeling of warmth in certain parts of the body, including the head, whilst other areas feel cooler.

Hypoglycaemia: low blood sugar levels can cause some children to feel warm around the forehead whilst their limbs remain cold.

How to measure your child's temperature and identify fever

To find out whether your baby is genuinely running a fever due to an infection or another issue, it is essential to take their temperature correctly. A digital thermometer is recommended for this:

Gently place the thermometer under your baby's armpit or in the rectum, keeping a watchful eye on your child throughout the reading.

When the thermometer beeps, carefully remove it and note the temperature in a notebook or directly in a health-tracking app.

A normal body temperature for a baby is generally around 36.5°C to 37.2°C. If you find that your child's temperature is above these figures, this may indicate a fever that requires medical attention.

When to see a doctor?

In the event of fever, it is important to know the signs that may indicate it is time to consult a health professional:

High temperature: if your baby's temperature exceeds 38°C, it is advisable to see a doctor.

Persistent fever: a fever lasting more than one day in an infant under three months, or more than three days in a child aged three to six months, should be assessed by a health professional.

Signs of dehydration: if you suspect your baby is dehydrated — due to infrequent urination, crying without tears, or lethargy — it is crucial to seek medical help immediately.

Loss of appetite: a child who refuses to eat or drink for an extended period, particularly when they are clearly unwell, should be seen by a doctor.

Relieving fever at home: a few useful tips

If your baby is showing moderate signs of fever and you have already consulted a doctor to rule out more serious causes, or are waiting for a call back from the paediatrician, there are several simple steps you can take to help your child feel better:

Keep them hydrated: make sure your baby is drinking enough water, breast milk, or formula to stay hydrated. This can also help bring your child's temperature down.

Use antipyretic medicines: if your baby is over three months old, you can use medicines such as paracetamol (Doliprane) to reduce fever.

Lukewarm baths: giving your baby a lukewarm bath (not cold) can help temporarily lower their body temperature.

In summary, a hot head and cold body in babies is often a sign of fever, but this is not always the case. It is important to keep a close eye on your child and to consult a doctor if in doubt or if you notice any worrying symptoms. Follow the advice in this article to care for your baby at home when appropriate.