Fever generally doesn’t need to be treated with medication unless your kid feels uncomfortable. It is important sometimes as it helps fight the infection in the body. But the fever should not be treated with medication as it is a natural response to fight infection. It is important to closely monitor for dehydration or other complications, as these can happen during a fever, and you should consult your doctor if you suspect any additional problems.
Is Fever A Severe Illness In Children?
Fever is the body’s defense mechanism. It helps in fighting the infection. So, when your child has a fever, be assured that their body is trying to fight off any infection and is already on its way to recovery.
As fever can be as high as 104°F (40°C), you may feel concerned about it, especially if your child is feeling excessively uncomfortable or you notice that they have other signs of illness, such as chills, headache, and vomiting. So, it’s best to take the child to the doctor and have them checked.
The Dos And Don’ts Of Fever Treatment In Children
Do – Feed your child well-balanced food and beverages, including enough liquids. This includes milk, juice, broth, or soup. Let them play in a safe environment that isn’t too hot or cold. Use soft clothing.
Don’t – let them go outdoors during the day. Keep your child away from people who are sick with an infection.
Do – Provide proper rest, along with cool room temperature. Keep them covered up in bed, but don’t overheat them with heavy blankets or clothing. If they still complain of being uncomfortable, take their temperature again at the same time before giving any medication or changing medications. These recommendations also apply to children who have a fever after recovering from an illness (post-febrile).
Don’t – Give them any medication without consulting a doctor. Don’t reduce their fever or treat it with home remedies or alternative medicines.
Do – Keep your child hydrated. Use only room-temperature water for drinking or food that is not too hot (no ice cubes). Try to avoid giving them a cold drink or an ice cube, which can worsen their fever.
Don’t – Continue any fever-reducing medication unless directed by a doctor. The only medication not to be stopped after recovering from a cold or the flu is acetaminophen.
When To Visit A Pediatrician?
You should consider visiting a pediatrician if:
Your baby is 3 months old and has a fever. Their immune system is more prone to illnesses at that time, and it could cause several other infections without any signs showing.
If your kid’s fever lasts more than 4 days without any infection source.
Shows dehydration signs, such as no tears while crying, less urination, dry mouth, and sunken eyes.
The baby appears ill, tired, and has behavior changes.
Have symptoms like Urinary tract infection, stiff neck, sore throat, continuous vomiting, and diarrhea.
How To Treat Severe Fever In Children?
If your child is running a high fever, it’s best to take them to the doctor for a check-up. Depending on the cause of the fever, your doctor may give you a course of antipyretic medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. But please be aware that these medications are not recommended for children under 2 years old.
Can You Give Medicine To Relieve Fever In Children?
Yes, some medicines can be given in the case of a high fever, but these should be given under the supervision of a doctor. Commonly used over-the-counter medications for fever relief include ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Both these can be given to children who are 6 months old and above. For children below 6 months, you can give paracetamol.
Moreover, if you are looking for a pediatrician for your little one, consult the MyPedia clinic today. We have a team of pediatricians with vast experience in their fields and are waiting to serve you.
Schedule an appointment today, or give us a visit!
