How to Treat Fever in Children

A fever in a child is a frightening thing for a parent. Low-grade fevers that stay below 102 degrees F can be treated at home, with or without medication. Remember that a fever is the bodies way of fighting sickness. Let lower fevers run their course and your child should feel better in a few days.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Thermometer
• Juice, water and fluids
• Bath

1. Check to see how high the fever is by using a thermometer, either oral, rectal or axillary thermometer.

2. Monitor the temperature of the house, and in particular your child's room. Make sure it isn't too warm.

3. Keep your child comfortable. Give over-the-counter children's Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen when a child is uncomfortable or in pain.

4. Provide your child with lots of fluids including water, juices, soups or gelatin to keep them well hydrated.

5. Dress your child appropriately. Child feels hot take off layers of clothing. Complaining of chills, dress them warmer. Remember to remove extra layers as they warm up to prevent the fever from rising.

6. Bathe a child in a luke warm bath to bring down a fever. Remove them from the bath immediately, when shivering or feeling more uncomfortable.

Tips & Warnings

• Low grade fevers less than 102 degrees F do not need to be treated with medication unless the child is uncomfortable.
• Remember that a fever is the body's way of fighting off infection or illness. Letting a low-grade fever take its course can help your child feel better.
• Keep track of how often your child urinates to be sure he is getting and excreting enough fluids.
• Take your child to a doctor immediately if the fever is higher than 104 degrees F or if your child has even a slight fever and is an infant under 3 months old.
• Don't use cold water for a bath to cool down a slight fever. It can cause shivering which raises body temperature.
• Don't push food when your child has a fever. Let them decide how much they want to eat.

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