A fever is not dangerous in and of itself, and may even be a sign of an efficient immune system in your child. Its purpose, explains Dr. Kathi Kemper, professor of pediatrics at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, is to fight underlying infections; your child's fever might not need to be treated unless it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as coughing, runny nose or vomiting. If your child is extremely uncomfortable and his temperature remains at 103 F or higher, call your pediatrician, who can provide advice specific to your child's situation.
Step 1
Keep the room comfortably cool for your child and dress him lightly. Overdressing can cause the child's temperature to increase. Place a fan in the room to circulate air if the room is stuffy.
Step 2
Keep your child hydrated. Encourage him to drink water, diluted fruit juices or oral electrolyte solutions made for children.
Step 3
Give your child a tepid sponge bath. Fill the tub with 1 to 2 inches of water warmed to 85 to 90 F. Place your child in the tub and use a sponge or washcloth to spread water over her body. As the water evaporates, it will cool the body --- potentially around 1 to 2 degrees in 30 to 45 minutes.
Step 4
Allow your child to get plenty of rest. He doesn't have to stay in bed if he doesn't want to, however, but should refrain from activities vigorous enough to elevate body temperature.
Tips and Warnings
- In most situations, a fever only needs to be treated if the child is uncomfortable.
- Consult your doctor when treating your child at home for a fever. Don't allow your child to run around or over-exert himself, as this can cause a rise in temperature. Don't bathe your child in cold water as this can cause chills and shivering, which can also raise the body temperature.
Things You'll Need
- Fan
- Fruit juice
- Oral electrolyte solution
- Sponge or washcloth
