Dos and Don'ts for Treating Fever in Children

There’s hardly anything that makes parents feel more helpless than when their child has a fever. Although your child may seem distressed, a fever is actually a good thing.

Pediatrician Erin Frank says, “Most of the time when children have a fever, it’s simply their body’s response to an infection. Parents think that their child having a fever is a bad thing, but it’s a sign that the body is functioning normally.”

When to Call a Doctor for Your Child’s Fever

Many parents are unsure when to call a pediatrician if their child’s temperature spikes.

“There’s no specific number like 40°C or 40.5°C,” Dr. Frank says. “But with higher fevers or if you’re worried, you should at least call the doctor to check. The doctor can reassure you or give advice, especially if you’re calling in the middle of the night.”

The doctor will try to determine the cause of the fever. Usually, the main cause is a cold or viral infection. Sometimes, it’s a bacterial infection, such as strep throat or an ear infection. The pediatrician will also want to know how high the fever is.

What to Do When Your Child Has a Fever

– You can do several things to lower your child’s fever, such as:
– Use Medication: “When children feel really unwell, they become more fussy and irritable,” Dr. Frank says. “By treating the fever with some common over-the-counter medications, your child will feel more comfortable.”
– Monitor Dosages: While you can give your child acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil), make sure to provide the correct dosage. It is also acceptable to alternate between acetaminophen and ibuprofen while treating a fever. “They work very differently,” Dr. Frank says. “You can give both medications in the course of fever treatment. It takes 30 to 60 minutes for the medicine to take effect. If one doesn’t work after an hour, try the other.”
– Apply Cool Compresses: If your child’s skin feels hot, applying a cool compress to the forehead will make them more comfortable and help ease the fever.
– Encourage Hydration: Provide a variety of drinks other than water, such as Pedialyte or other electrolyte beverages. “Your body needs fluids. It’s not necessary to eat much in the short term, but staying hydrated is important for a sick child.”
– Dr. Frank advises that if your child has a fever, don’t:
– Give them a cold bath as it may cause discomfort.
– Push them to maintain a regular routine. Children need rest.
– If your child’s fever lasts more than five days, it’s time to see a doctor. Additionally, if your infant under 2 months old has a fever, contact your pediatrician.
– >>>You might be interested in: Top Tips to Calm a Child’s Anger

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