There are times when you may notice that the baby’s head is hot, but no fever is present when you check with a thermometer. It is usually a common and seldom a concerning matter. Various external or environmental factors can cause the baby’s head to become hot and make it seem like fever. The reason is often simple and easy to make out. Read through to know about the different reasons behind a baby’s head becoming hot without a fever and its management.
Why Is Your Baby’s Head Hot Without A Fever?
Below are some of the conditions and factors that may cause a baby’s head to become hot without the presence of a fever. According to Po-Chang Hsu, MD, a medical content expert at SleepingOcean.com, “When a baby’s forehead feels hot but the rest of the body seems okay, there’s nothing to worry about. The thermoregulation system in babies isn’t fully developed yet, so such ‘malfunctions’ are normal.”
What To Do If The Baby’s Head Is Hot Without A Fever?
If you notice that the baby’s head is hotter, check their body temperature with a thermometer. Fever in babies is considered when the body temperature is higher than 100.4°F (38°C) (4). If the baby does not have a fever, it indicates their head is hotter than the rest of the body. Below are a few interventions to consider if your baby’s head feels hot but no fever is present.
1. Dress the baby appropriately
Your baby should be dressed as per the season to prevent them from becoming overheated. Here are some points to keep in mind while dressing the baby (5) (6).
If the weather is hot or humid, make sure the baby is dressed in a natural, breathable fabric. A temperature higher than 75°F (23°C) is usually considered hot for babies. Avoid layers to prevent overheating. When extremely hot, a diaper and a loose cotton top/shirt may be advisable.
In a colder climate, dress the child in a bodysuit without a blanket. You may also swaddle them in warm yet breathable fabric. Add or decrease layers according to the temperature to avoid overheating.
Dr. Hsu recommends, “If the room temperature allows for it, one can dress their baby in a sleeveless onesie to prevent further overheating. However, if the room is cool and the baby doesn’t have a fever (meaning only the head is warm but the rest of the body is normal), parents can opt for a breathable sleeping sack or a cotton onesie with long sleeves.”
Use a breathable cotton crib mattress to allow ventilation and prevent the head from overheating. You may also prefer a crib with guard rails that allow adequate air circulation.
2. Check the room temperature
The room temperature could also influence the temperature of your baby’s head. Keep the following points in mind about room temperature for babies (7).
Maintain a room temperature of 65 to 70°F (18 to 21°C) in all seasons. A baby may be unable to adjust and adapt to changes in ambient temperature, making it imperative to maintain a stable temperature range.
During summers, you may use air conditioners to maintain room temperature, while room heaters are useful during winters.
Ensure there is adequate ventilation in the room during summer if you do not intend to use an air conditioner. Place a wet cloth on an open window to cool the incoming breeze.
Use a ceiling fan to circulate the air. You may also use a table fan, but do not point it directly at the baby and place it beyond the baby’s reach.
3. Check conditions that alter body temperature
Several miscellaneous situations or conditions could make the baby’s head hot without fever. Here is how you may deal with them.
Change the timings for outdoor activity during warm weather. Prefer taking the baby in the morning or late in the evening to protect them from excess heat.
Keep your baby hydrated with frequent breastfeeding sessions during hot weather. It can prevent dehydration, which may also cause a baby’s head and body to become hot to touch.
Provide teethers to teething babies to subdue the irritation caused by inflamed gums. Pick a one-piece teether that will not break and ensure it is made from non-toxic materials.
Check and address the various causes of stress and crying in babies. For instance, if the baby cries and becomes clingy due to separation anxiety, work on methods that can help the baby grow habituated to staying away from parents for some time. You may take the help of an expert or a support group or formulate your own ways based on your observations.
When To See A Doctor?
Consult a doctor in the following scenarios.
The baby’s head continues to stay hot over several days despite interventions, such as changes in clothing and improvement in room ventilation.
The baby is younger than three months.
The baby’s head became hotter after a dose of medication.
You notice possible signs of infection, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
The baby also shows other issues, such as reduced appetite and poor sleep.
You notice possible signs of gum infection, such as gum bleeding, in the teething baby.
The little one seems to display signs of dehydration, such as fewer soiled diapers, dark urine, lack of tears while crying, dry skin and mouth, and lethargy.
