Child’s Fever
Child’s Fever
Everything you need to know
about your Child’s Fever
If you’re a parent, you’re all too familiar with this scenario. It feels warm when you place your hand on your sick child’s forehead. The thermometer then confirms your suspicions: they have a fever. However, if you follow a few easy principles, you can make them feel more at ease and keep them secure.
Fever is a natural defence mechanism against infection. To kill the bacteria, your child’s body raises its temperature. It’s usually harmless and goes gone on its own within three days.
What You Should Do
Paracetamol can help your child feel better by lowering his or her temperature. The dose will be indicated on the label if they are older than two. Ask your doctor how much to give them if they’re younger.
If your infant is at least 6 months old, another choice is ibuprofen.
You have a variety of options for making them feel better. Apply a cool compress to their head and maintain a comfortable temperature in their room, not too hot or too chilly. Provide a light blanket and dress them in one layer of light clothing. You can also give them a lukewarm sponge bath to relax them.
Don’t forget to encourage them to drink plenty of water.
What You Shouldn’t Do
Never give aspirin to your youngster. It can lead to Reye’s syndrome, which is a dangerous illness.
When it comes to young children, stay away from cold and flu treatments that contain both. They should not be given to children under the age of six. It’s uncertain how effective they are in children.
If you decide to give your child cold medication, check with your GP to be sure he or she is old enough to take it. According to the NHS, Children under 6 should not have over-the-counter cough and cold remedies, including decongestants, unless advised by a GP or pharmacist. The potential adverse effects are substantial, even life-threatening.
If your child’s doctor says it’s OK to use cough or cold medicine, read the label carefully before purchasing and choose the one that best matches his or her symptoms. Without your GPs permission, don’t transition from one drug to another.
Do not use an icy cold bath or alcohol to rub your child’s skin. Either can cause a temperature to rise.
Even if your child has the chills, avoid wrapping them in heavy blankets or clothing.
When to call a doctor
Taking your ill child to the doctor is usually unnecessary. Fever, on the other hand, might be a major warning sign. If your kid has any of the following symptoms, contact your GP. If not call 111.
If you observe any of the following more serious symptoms in your child, regardless of age, call your doctor:
- Is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 38.8 degrees Celcius or higher
- Has a fever that lasts for more than 72 hours (or more than 24 hours if your child is under age 2)
- Has a fever along with other symptoms such as a stiff neck, extremely sore throat, ear pain, rash, or severe headache
- Has a seizure
- Seems very sick, upset, or unresponsive
Tips to Take Your Child’s Temperature
How often should you check?
That is dependent on the circumstances. Consult your child’s doctor. If your child is resting soundly, you usually don’t need to take their temperature or wake them up. However, you should do it if your child’s activity level is low or if he or she has a history of seizures associated with fever.
What is the best thermometer for kids?
The best are digital thermometers. They might be placed in their mouth, rectally, or beneath the arm.
A rectal temperature is the most accurate for young toddlers. You can usually get a good reading with a thermometer in the mouth if your kids are 4 to 5 years old or older. It’s less reliable, but it’s easier to do under the arm. To get a more accurate number, remember to add a degree to an underarm reading.
Prevention tips for your Baby’s Cold
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to prevent every cold, especially during the winter when these viruses are more prevalent. However, you can reduce your baby’s risk of being ill by following these guidelines:
- Request that anyone who is ill stay away from your home.
- Keep your child away from crowded areas where germs are prevalent.
- Throughout the day, wash your hands frequently. Anyone who holds your kid should wash their hands as well.
- Clean your baby’s toys with soap and water on a regular basis.
- Allow no one to use your child’s cup, utensils, or towels.
- Instead of coughing or sneezing into the air, tell older children to cough or sneeze into a tissue or their elbow.
- Allow no one to smoke near your youngster. Cigarette smoke has the potential to make your baby more likely to get sick.