Most of the time, a fever isn't a reason to go to the emergency room. The human body uses the fever to fight off infections that are sensitive to heat. However, a fever that gets too hot can also harm you. Children and especially babies are more sensitive to fevers, so as a parent, you need to watch your child's temperature and take them to the hospital if it gets too high. Here's how you can tell when to go.

Babies 3 Months & Under

The average internal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, but a certain amount of fluctuation is normal, so your child's temperature may be anywhere from 97 to 100 degrees normally. If your child measures above 100.4, that's considered a fever. Most doctors recommend taking an infant to the emergency room if they have even a slight fever because babies don't regulate their body temperature as well as adults.

3 Months to 3 Years

At this age, your child can tolerate slightly higher temperatures, so for a simple fever, you don't need to visit the emergency room unless your child's temperature reaches 102.2 degrees or higher. However, watch for other symptoms. A low fever, combined with a rash, difficulty breathing, drowsiness or difficulty waking up, an inability to keep fluids down, or lack of urination, is more serious than a fever by itself. You should also take your child in if they are crying inconsolably with their fever or haven't gotten all of the recommended immunizations for their age.

3 & Older

For older children, a fever of 102 or above that lasts more than two days is the cue to visit a medical center. You should also go if a lower fever lasts an unusually long time or spikes over 104 degrees or your child has a fever and isn't fully vaccinated. Finally, watch for additional symptoms like a stiff neck, rash, painful urination, no urination, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, and inability to keep fluids down.

If you need to visit the emergency room, go to Colquitt Regional Medical Center in Moultrie, GA. They have over 90 years of history with over 60 physicians in residence and are the only hospital in the area to receive 10 Grade A ratings in a row from Leapfrog. They offer a range of services, including orthopedics, OB/GYN and maternity, and weight loss procedures and have an emergency room that's open 24/7. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (229) 985-3420.