Why does my baby have a low-grade fever that comes and goes, and what should I do about it?

Low fever usually refers to low-grade fever. In general, when a baby experiences intermittent low-grade fever—appearing for a while, subsiding, and then reappearing—it may be caused by transient low fever, viral cold, tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, or other factors. Symptomatic treatment can be provided based on the specific underlying cause. The details are as follows:

1. Transient Low Fever

This may occur due to a high ambient temperature or excessive clothing, leading to increased metabolic activity and a temporary rise in body temperature. The condition typically resolves spontaneously once the environment is improved.

2. Viral Cold

After viral infection, the immune system initiates a series of immune responses, including the release of inflammatory mediators. These responses can cause an increase in body temperature, resulting in fever. While the immune system works to fight off the virus, body temperature may fluctuate, rising and falling intermittently. Parents can, under medical guidance, apply a warm towel to the forehead to help reduce body temperature.

3. Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis may result from immune factors or infections, with inflammation irritating the mucous membranes of the throat. Treatment may include medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cephalexin capsules, or ampicillin capsules, taken as directed by a physician.

4. Bronchitis

Bronchitis may be triggered by physical or chemical factors or pathogenic microbial infections, causing congestion and swelling of the bronchial mucosa. Treatment may involve medications such as cefradine capsules, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or cefixime dispersible tablets, used under a doctor’s guidance.

5. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is typically a lung inflammation caused by bacterial, viral, or other microbial infections. The infection leads to inflamed lung tissue, prompting an active immune response against the pathogens. This inflammatory process can induce fever. Medications such as ambroxol hydrochloride tablets or ribavirin granules may be used under medical supervision.

In addition, recurring low fever could also be caused by conditions such as lung cancer or leukemia. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.