Fevers are the body's way of fighting off infection and are generally harmless, although they can seem alarming. Treat your child's fever with fever-reducing medications or a slightly warm bath. Don't give children aspirin, though, which can cause a serious medical condition, or apply rubbing alcohol, which can cause shivering and an even higher fever.
Fever-Reducing Medications
Fever reducing medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, are usually the fastest, most reliable way to reduce a fever. Ibuprofen is the preferred choice for infants older than 2 months, according to Dr. Jerry Rubin, MD, because it relieves achiness and inflammation in addition to lowering fever. Medications take about one hour to work and may not completely eliminate your child's fever. Follow all dosing instructions carefully.
Lukewarm Water
Give your child a lukewarm bath or place damp washcloths on his face and chest. The water should be slightly cooler than normal bathwater, but not so cool that it causes shivering, which can cause a fever to rise even higher. Baths relieve aches and pains in addition to reducing fever and are usually more effective than merely sponging your child with a washcloth.
Comfort Measures
Encourage your child to rest in bed with a light sheet or blanket over him. Open a window slightly, if it's not hot outside, to allow fresh air into the room, carrying heat away from the body. Do not bundle your child up, which can cause fevers to climb higher. Offer clear liquids or broth to keep your child hydrated.
Considerations
A fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit is considered a medical emergency in babies younger than 2 months. Contact your pediatrician immediately, day or night, for fevers in young babies. Before treating fevers in older babies and children, assess their general well-being. If your child appears comfortable and is alert and eating well, wait to treat the fever. Treating a fever too early can interfere with the body's own healing process.
Treat a fever if your child is listless, restless and uncomfortable. Contact your doctor if the fever rises above 105 degrees Fahrenheit or lasts more than three days. Seek immediate medical attention if your child has a seizure, has a very stiff neck or severe headache, or has rapid breathing even after the fever has been lowered.
References
- "Naturally Healthy Kids"; Dr. Jerry Rubin, MD, et al.; 2006
- ASkDrSears.com: 5 Safe Ways to Reduce Fever
- AskDrSears.com: Fever
