Anna Maria Richards
Despite how lightly many people may take it, fever is a serious issue that shouldn’t be taken for granted. The biggest reason for not taking a fever lightly is that you do not know what caused it.
It can be viral or, perhaps, a sign of typhoid. So, acting fast is advisable if someone in your home has a fever. Moreover, the situation can quickly escalate for kids because they often don’t have an efficient immune system.
Here are 10 tips for looking after your child suffering from a fever.
Give Them Plenty of Fluids
Fever can cause your child to become dehydrated very quickly. So they must drink plenty of fluids. Water, Pedialyte, electrolyte drinks, and broths are all good options.
If your child refuses to drink, try using the “gift” trick – promise them their favorite snack or their favorite TV show if they drink fluids.
Clean Them Up
Removing excess clothing and bed sheets can help your child cool down. Be sure to wipe their skin with a wet cloth to keep it clean and reduce body oil and sweat, which could make them hot and uncomfortable.
Remove Any Comforters
A fever can cause your child’s temperature to rise, so it is important to remove any layers of clothing or blankets that could make them too warm. If possible, try using a fan to circulate air around them and keep them cool.
Use Medication if Needed
If your child’s fever makes them uncomfortable or upset, you can give them over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen to help reduce the fever and make them more comfortable.
However, be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully and don’t give your child more medication than recommended.
Seek Medical Attention if Necessary
Fever can be a sign of a more serious illness, so it is important to seek medical attention if your child’s fever persists for more than a few days or if they start showing other symptoms of an illness.
If your home is far from a hospital, you can also ensure prompt urgent care by contacting Perfect Health.
Monitor Your Child’s Temperature
A thermometer is your best tool for measuring a fever and keeping track of their progress. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the old-fashioned method of feeling your child’s forehead – if it feels hot to the touch, they most likely have a fever.
Keep Them Comfortable
Make sure they are comfortable and try to keep noise and light levels low. If they are restless, you can try giving them a cool washcloth to hold or a cold drink to sip on.
Watch for Other Symptoms
Fever is a sign of illness, but it can also be accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, aches and pains, and inability to sleep. Ensure you watch for other signs that could mean your child has an infection or something more serious than just a fever.
Be Careful With Discomfort
If your child’s fever makes them uncomfortable, it is natural to want to help reduce that discomfort. However, be careful not to overdo it. Giving your child too many fluids, baths, or medications can actually make them more uncomfortable and can also lead to dehydration.
Stay Calm
Fever can be overwhelming for both parents and children. However, it is important to stay calm and focus on taking care of your child. Try to relax and take things one step at a time. Most fevers will go down within a few days with the right treatment.
Final Word
Even though it is often dismissed as “a day-long flu” or “just a cold,” fever can be dangerous and needs to be taken care of. We hope the above-mentioned tips will help.
