Baby’s First Fever

For the past couple days, Hailey has been a bit crankier than usual. I blamed the molars that are trying to work their way through because she keeps almost her entire hand in her mouth at all times and is drooling like a champ. She also had a slight fever that came and went (just over 99 degrees), which can happen while teething, too. However, yesterday morning I woke up to this face.

Does that say “I feel like crap, mom” or what?

Sure enough, her temperature was 101 and the girl didn’t have much desire to eat or energy. The pacifier that is usually reserved for sleep only came out because she just looked so miserable. Being that it was the first time Hailey has been sick, I turned into nervous Nelly and decided to call the doctor.

Side story: I was texting one of my single best friends and I told her that Hailey didn’t feel well and I could call her at 9:00 when I was heading to the ped. So I called her when I got in the car and the first thing she says? How is your pedicure going?! I was so confused until I realized ped for me = pediatrician, but to her, ped clearly meant pedicure. We got a good laugh

I was grateful that the doc got us right in. We just switched Hailey to a new place and I’m really pleased with their willingness to spend time with each patient, their competence and ability to see you quickly.

Everything checked out ok. No ear infection or rashes, but definitely a fever of 101, probably caused from some little virus. I asked if I should give her Tylenol, to which the doctor suggested I don’t. She said she believes the fever is doing a job and as long as it stays 101ish and below, it’s not a real danger as long as it is trending downwards over a couple days.

I thought that was interesting advice and decided to take it. I’d keep Hailey med-free unless her fever went up or she showed signs of increased discomfort.  Luckily, she didn’t seem to be terribly uncomfortable, but boy was she clingy.

She would not let me put her down, so my planned day of productivity took a back seat to snuggles. I didn’t mind one bit. We bummed, we read books and Hailey napped.

She hasn’t napped on me in months, so this was a sweet spot in an otherwise rough day.

I was prepared to give her Tylenol before bed to help her be comfortable enough for sleep, but her fever broke just before dinner time. It’s like someone flipped a switch and she was ready to play again. Luckily she was still worn out and went to bed with ease, despite the extra naps.

Now, my fingers are crossed that she wakes up a healthy, happy girl!

Do you have any sick day traditions?

Growing up my mom was great to us when we were sick. She’d set us up on the couch with blankets and any hydration we wanted- Gatorade, sprite, slushies. If it was a sore throat we could also be guaranteed hot and sour soup, which I still go out of my way to get when I have a sore throat today. Moms are awesome.

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