How to lower the fever in children

Fever in children is a common symptom that can cause concern for parents. Most of the time, fever is the way a child's body fights infections. However, if a child's temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius, it can become dangerous and require medical intervention.

In this article, we will explore various techniques for safely and effectively lowering fever in children. We will also examine when it is necessary to consult a doctor for your child's fever.

What causes fever in children?

Fever in children can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Viral or bacterial infections such as colds, flu, tonsillitis or pneumonia
• Allergic reactions to drugs or foods
• Autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Vaccinations

It is important to remember that fever is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying problem. So, when it comes to lowering children's fever, it is essential to identify and address the underlying cause of the fever.

Symptoms of fever in children

Fever is a common symptom in many disorders and illnesses in children. Usually, the body temperature of a healthy child ranges around 36-37 degrees Celsius. When the body temperature exceeds this value, it is called fever.

The following symptoms may indicate that your child has a fever:

• Rise in body temperature: as mentioned earlier, if your child's body temperature exceeds 37 degrees Celsius, they probably have a fever.
• Sweating: when the body tries to lower its temperature, it can sweat excessively.
• Tremors: tremors are a natural response of the body to generate heat and increase body temperature.
• Headache: some children may have headaches when they have a fever.
• Muscle pain: children with fever may feel weak or sore all over their body.
• Lack of appetite: children with fever often lose their appetite and do not want to eat or drink much.
• Fatigue and irritability: children with fever may be tired and irritable due to the effect of high temperature on their body.

It is important to note that these symptoms can vary from child to child and some children may have only one or two of these symptoms.

If your child has a fever, it is important to monitor their symptoms and seek medical assistance if necessary. Additionally, there are many things you can do to help reduce your child's fever and alleviate their symptoms, as explained in the article "How to Lower Fever in Children".

How to measure children's body temperature

Fever is a natural response of the body to an infection or inflammation and can be an important signal of an ongoing illness. Measuring your child's body temperature can help you monitor their symptoms and understand if they need medical care. Here are some ways to do so:

Digital thermometer

Digital thermometers are the most common and easy to use. They can be used to measure rectal, ear, oral or axillary temperature.

• Rectal measurement: cover the thermometer with vaseline and gently insert it into the child's anus. Wait for the acoustic or visual signal indicating the end of the measurement.
• Auricular measurement: gently insert the end of the thermometer into the child's ear and wait for the acoustic or visual signal indicating the end of the measurement.
• Oral measurement: have the child place the thermometer under their tongue and ask them to keep their mouth closed. Wait for the acoustic or visual signal indicating the end of the measurement.
• Axillary measurement: have the child place the thermometer under their armpit and ask them to keep their arm close to their body. Wait for the acoustic or visual signal indicating the end of the measurement.

Infrared thermometer

Infrared thermometers are used to measure temperature on forehead or temporal artery.

• Measurement on forehead: gently slide the thermometer over your child's forehead, following manufacturer instructions.
• Measurement on temporal artery: gently position the thermometer on your child's temporal artery and wait for the acoustic or visual signal indicating the end of measurement.

Remember to carefully read manufacturer instructions before using any type of thermometer and clean it thoroughly after each use.

If you have any doubts or concerns about your child's health, always consult a doctor.

Natural remedies to lower fever in children

If your child has a fever, there are some natural remedies that can help reduce body temperature and alleviate symptoms.

Keep the child hydrated

Water is essential when fighting fever. Make sure to offer your child plenty of water or other liquids such as mint tea, vegetable broth or diluted fruit juices. This way, the body can maintain proper fluid balance and prevent dehydration.

Use cold compresses

Cold compresses can help lower your child's body temperature. You can use a cool damp cloth on your child's forehead, neck, and wrists. Be sure not to use water that is too cold or ice, as it could cause shivering in the child.

Take lukewarm baths

Lukewarm baths can be very effective in lowering a child's body temperature. Fill a bathtub with lukewarm (not cold) water and have your child take a relaxing bath. This can also help calm the child and make them feel better.

Use essential oils

Some essential oils can help reduce fever and alleviate symptoms. For example, peppermint oil can be added to bathwater or diffused into the air to help cool the body down. Lavender oil can also be used to calm the child and promote sleep.

Light Diet

While your child has a fever, they may not feel like eating much. However, it is important to ensure that they eat light and nutritious foods such as fresh fruit, steamed vegetables, and soups. This will provide the child's body with the necessary nutrients to fight the illness and recover more quickly.

• Keep the child hydrated with water, mint tea, vegetable broth or diluted fruit juices
• Use cold compresses on the child's forehead, neck, and wrists
• Give the child a warm bath
• Add essential oils such as peppermint or lavender to bathwater or diffuse them in the air
• Offer light and nutritious foods such as fresh fruit, steamed vegetables, and soups

Always remember to consult a doctor if the fever persists or if your child has other worrying symptoms.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

It is important to know when to contact a pediatrician in case of fever in children. Here are some cases where you should call the doctor:

• If your child's temperature exceeds 38°C for more than three consecutive days.
• If your child is under three months old and has a temperature above 37.5°C.
• If your child seems very weak or lethargic.
• If your child has difficulty breathing or is breathing rapidly.
• If your child has rashes or other symptoms that worry you.
• If you have doubts or concerns about your child's health.

Remember that every child is different and there are also other warning signs that may indicate a more serious problem. If you have concerns about your child's health, do not hesitate to contact the pediatrician for advice.

Conclusion

In summary, fever in children can be scary but in most cases it does not pose a threat to their health. It is important to carefully monitor your child's symptoms and act accordingly, following the guidelines provided by the pediatrician.

Remember that hand hygiene and maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent fever in children. If your child has a fever, follow the advice given in this article to help them feel better.