A fever is usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection. As the white blood cells attack the offending illness, your child's body temperature increases, sometimes to upsetting levels. Take your child's temperature and ensure that the fever isn't a major concern, then take steps to make him feel more comfortable. A combination of medication and home care methods can help reduce your child's fever to help him better weather the storm of illness, but if there's a lasting high fever, make sure to see a doctor.
Step 1
Offer fever-reducing medicine to help relieve some of the symptoms that often accompany a fever, such as chills or aches. Only ibuprofen and acetaminophen are appropriate for children; never offer aspirin. Follow the dosing instructions on the medicine packaging, paying special attention to the weight requirements for dosing.
Step 2
Draw a lukewarm bath for your child. The cooler water can help reduce the body's core temperature for comfort. Watch your child's reaction; the water should never be so cool that it results in shivering. If your child shivers, increase the water temperature, as placing your child's warm body into very cold water can cause shock.
Step 3
Offer fluids to help reduce your child's overall temperature and prevent dehydration. Your child's fever may make him feel nauseous, so he may refuse liquids. Ice pops and pediatric drinks can help encourage your child to increase his fluid intake. If your child refuses to take any fluids or vomits any type of fluid he tries, contact your doctor.
Step 4
Wet a washcloth and apply it to your child's forehead. The coolness of the washcloth can help to temporarily reduce fever for better comfort. Increase the water temperature if the washcloth makes your child shiver.
Things You'll Need
- Thermometer
- Fever-reducing medicine
- Washcloth
