Although ibuprofen is generally considered safe for children and infants over 6 months of age, it can cause stomach upset or reduce blood clotting ability. Pediatricians recommend ibuprofen to treat pain, fever and swelling often associated with ear infections, teething or headaches. Try some natural alternatives to ibuprofen, but consult your doctor if pain is severe or a fever lasts more than three days.
Fever
A fever is the body's natural defense to an infection or invading agent, according to Dr. Jerry Rubin, M.D., author of "Naturally Healthy Kids." An elevated temperature may increase immune system function or may kill germs directly. If your child has a fever, but appears relatively comfortable and happy, no treatment is necessary. If on the other hand, if your child seems very uncomfortable or is unable to sleep, you can treat the fever with home remedies.
Sponge your child with tepid water or give your child a barely warm bath. Do not use cold water or alcohol. Make a lemon compress by placing cut lemons in a bowl with hot water, dipping a towel in the bowl and wringing it out. Wrap the compress around your child's calf and foot to cool and balance temperature throughout the body, according to Dr. Lauren Feder, M.D., author of "Natural Baby and Childcare." Repeat every 15 minutes.
Call your pediatrician if your child is younger than 2 months old, your child's temperature rises above 105 degrees, your child has a seizure or your child has a very stiff neck or severe headache or just seems very ill.
Pain
To treat pain associated with headaches, muscle aches or earaches, offer a cold compress or add a few drops of lavender oil to a warm bath. Give valerian root, which is a mild herbal sedative that may also offer pain relief. Ginger or peppermint tea may soothe headaches, especially those associated with nausea. Pour a few drops of garlic-mullein oil or hydrogen peroxide in the ears to treat ear pain and resolve ear infections, according to Dr. Feder. Offer frozen slices of fruit or a frozen wash cloth to a teething baby to relieve pain. Consult your pediatrician if pain is intense or interferes with sleeping and eating.
Swelling
Every child experiences some bumps, bruises and skinned knees as part of an active childhood. These injuries are usually not serious, but may cause pain and swelling. To reduce swelling following a minor injury, elevate the injured limb and apply ice. Encourage your child to rest and avoid all activity that causes pain.
Arnica montana is a homeopathic medicine that relieves swelling, muscle soreness and bruises, while Aconitum napellus has a calming effect and is useful for comforting a frightened child after a minor accident.
Considerations
Consult your pediatrician before offering any medicines, including herbal remedies or homeopathic medicines. Watch your child for signs of serious illness, such as severe pain, a stiff neck, lethargy or a fever above 105 degrees. Infants younger than 3 months can become very ill very quickly. Consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
References
- "Natural Baby and Childcare"; Lauren Feder, M.D.; 2006
- "Naturally Healthy Kids"; Dr. Jerry Rubin et al.; 2006
- AskDrSears.com: Ibuprofen
