You can't always prevent your toddler from getting sick. The common cold is often responsible for a low-grade fever. This upper respiratory track infection causes symptoms such as, low grade-fever, sore throat, cough and congestion. If your toddler is sick, a few remedies can help ease her discomfort.
Fluids
Offer your toddler plenty of fluids. Talk with her doctor about using an electrolyte replacement drink. She can also drink water, juice or broth. If your toddler stops drinking or loses interest in eating, contact her doctor right away. You should also contact her doctor if she cries but doesn't produce tears. This is a sign of dehydration.
Bathing
A soak in lukewarm water can help your child feel better during a low-grade fever. Allow her to soak for about five to 10 minutes. This will also reduce her body temperature. However, if your toddler starts to shiver during the bath, end it quickly. Shivering increases your toddler's body temperature, making a low-grade fever worse. Dress your child in cool clothing after bathing and allow her to sleep with a light blanket.
Rest
Encourage your toddler to rest. Physical activity will increase your child's body temperature and make it difficult for her body to fight the virus. Staying home and resting will also prevent the spread of infection to others. Quite activities like coloring and playing quite board games will help keep your toddler's activity level low.
Medications
For a low-grade fever, your doctor might recommend skipping a fever reducing medication. These medications are usually reserved for toddlers with a temperature of 102 degrees or higher. Using a fever reducer with a low-grade fever might actually prolong your child's illness. If your doctor recommends using a medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, use it as directed.
Don't ever give a toddler aspirin. This medication increases the risk for a potentially fatal condition called Reye's syndrome in children.
Medical Attention
If your child has a fever that lasts for more than a few days, call a doctor. A toddler who is usually sleepy, isn't drinking enough fluids or has ear pain should also seek medical attention. Pain in the sinus area is also a reason for concern. When in doubt, always consult your child's pediatrician.
