Fever in children is common, but as a parent, it can be worrying when your little one runs a high temperature. Knowing how to treat your child’s fever at home can help ease their discomfort and speed up recovery. However, it’s equally important to understand when a doctor’s visit is needed for further assessment. A little knowledge can give you confidence when fever strikes, ensuring your child gets the best care possible. By Dr Maraschin, expert paediatrician.
Temperature or fever is the body’s natural response to an infection – the infection may either be viral or bacterial. Children may also develop a fever after vaccinations or as a result of trauma. When a child has a high temperature, it can be extremely distressing to parents and certainly makes the child listless and miserable. Knowing how to control your child’s temperature and how to treat a fever at home is an important part of caring for a sick child.
What temperature is considered a fever?
- 36.4⁰C to 37.5⁰C (97.9⁰F to 99.5⁰F) is considered a normal body temperature.
- A temperature above 38⁰C will require intervention.
- Knowing your child’s normal body temperature is also important as it will help guide you when your child is ill.
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What should I do when my child has a fever?
Wondering how to treat a child’s fever at home? My advice to parents when dealing with fever is to control the temperature with medication first. The medicine dose is based on your child’s weight – please be sure to follow the instructions carefully. If you are unsure of how to calculate the correct dose of medication, you should contact your healthcare provider.
- Medication: For temperatures below 38.5⁰C (101.3⁰F), paracetamol syrup or suppository should be given. Temperatures higher than 38.5⁰C may require a combination of paracetamol such as Panado and an anti-inflammatory.
- Fluids: It is vitally important to give your child extra fluids when they have a temperature. High temperature causes the child to lose water through the skin. Rehydration solution, cold water and diluted apple juice are well tolerated, even when your child is feeling very ill.
- Keeping your child cool: Once you have given medication, it is advisable to keep the child lightly dressed so that the body can lose the temperature through the skin. Sponging your child with lukewarm (not cold) water may also help the body lose heat and make your child more comfortable.
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What NOT to do when your child has a fever
- Do not submerge the child in cold water or wrap them in a wet towel. This will put the child’s body under stress. If the outside of the body is much colder than the internal temperature, your child may experience rigours – this is when the body begins to shake.
- Do not give anti-inflammatory medications to a child that is dehydrated or who is highly allergic.
- Avoid medication that contains aspirin.
- Do not use rubbing alcohol on a child. The alcohol may be inhaled or absorbed through the skin and is toxic.
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When should I worry about a fever or take my child to a doctor?
- If your baby is younger than 12 weeks (seek medical attention immediately)
- If your child has or is prone to fever convulsions
- If your child has a stiff or sore neck
- If your child has vomiting or diarrhoea with a fever
- If your child is struggling to breathe or is very lethargic
- If the fever continues to rise 30 minutes after giving medication
- If the fever has persisted for longer than four days
It’s safe to say that all children will have a temperature or fever at some time. The key to handling the situation is to have what you need at home. Make sure that you have a reliable thermometer. The new thermo scanners (used on the forehead or in the ear) are quick and easy to use. Please avoid the old mercury thermometers, as these can cause poisoning if dropped and the mercury leaks out.
Ensuring that you have paracetamol in your medicine cupboard with a syringe to accurately measure the medicine is a good idea. Please check expiry dates on all medicines regularly. Temperatures do cause a lot of stress but with the correct management, it can be controlled. Control is the key to keeping your child comfortable until the illness passes.
This article was written for BabyYumYum by our partner paediatrician, Dr Maraschin.
BabyYumYum FAQs: How to Treat Your Child’s Fever at Home & When to See a Doctor
What is considered a fever in children?
A fever in children is typically a body temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher.
What causes fevers in children?
Fevers are usually caused by infections, such as colds, flu, or ear infections. They are a natural response to fight off illness.
How can I treat my child’s fever at home?
You can give them plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, dress them in lightweight clothing, use a lukewarm sponge bath, and administer age-appropriate fever-reducing medication like paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed.
Should I always try to lower my child’s fever?
Not always. If your child is comfortable and playing despite the fever, treatment may not be necessary. Focus on their overall behaviour rather than just the temperature.
When should I take my child to the doctor for a fever?
See a doctor if the fever lasts more than three days, if your child is under three months old with a fever of 38°C or higher, or if they show symptoms like rash, difficulty breathing, or extreme drowsiness.
Can teething cause a fever?
Teething might cause a slight rise in temperature but not a fever. If your child has a fever, it is likely due to another cause.
Is it safe to use a cold compress to reduce fever?
A lukewarm compress or bath can help, but avoid using cold water or ice as it may cause shivering, which can raise body temperature further.
Can I alternate between paracetamol and ibuprofen?
It’s best to follow your doctor’s advice. If alternating is suggested, ensure the medications are spaced appropriately to avoid overdosing.
What are signs of dehydration in a child with a fever?
Signs include a dry mouth, lack of tears when crying, reduced urination, and lethargy. Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration.
Should I let my child ‘sweat out’ the fever?
No, overdressing or bundling your child can worsen the fever. Keep them comfortable with light clothing and a cool environment.
Are febrile seizures dangerous?
Febrile seizures can be alarming but are usually harmless. If your child experiences one, place them on their side, clear the area, and seek medical advice immediately.
Can fever indicate a serious condition?
Yes, fever can sometimes signal serious conditions like meningitis or a bacterial infection. Monitor for severe symptoms like a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, or persistent vomiting, and seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
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