The child has a fever – how to administer medicines and lower the temperature?

A fever in a child can be a terrifying experience for parents, but with the right knowledge and action, you can effectively help your little one.

In this article, we will discuss what a fever is, how to choose the right fever medicine for a child, how to dose it correctly, whether it is worth administering electrolytes, whether a cold shower is effective, whether a child should be warmed, and what home remedies for fever are safe.

What is a fever?

Fever is an increased body temperature accompanied by symptoms such as weakness, headache or muscle pain. This is the body’s natural response to infections or other factors that cause inflammation. Fever can be particularly concerning in children, but it is usually a sign that the body is trying to fight off an infection.

How to choose a good fever medicine for a child?

When choosing a fever medicine for a child, you should take into account the child’s age and weight. The dosage varies depending on the preparation, so it is always worth reading the leaflet or consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Popular antipyretics for children are paracetamol and ibuprofen. Remember that some medicines may contain ingredients that your child may be allergic to, so always check the ingredients.

How to know how to dose an antipyretic drug?

It is important to follow the recommendations on the medicine package. Dosage is usually determined based on the child’s age and weight. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as it may be dangerous to your baby’s health. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Fever and hydration – should electrolytes be administered?

During a fever, your child’s body may lose more fluids than usual, so it is worth ensuring proper hydration. You can give your child water, herbal tea, or electrolyte drinks to help balance electrolyte loss.

Will a cold shower help reduce a fever?

A cold shower is a popular way to reduce a fever in adults, but it is not always appropriate for children. Children may react badly to cold water, so it is better to avoid such drastic methods. Instead, you can try lukewarm water compresses or warm baths, which will help lower the temperature gradually.

Baby sweating – should you warm your baby up extra?

It is not always necessary to additionally warm a child during a fever. A baby’s body can regulate its own temperature. It is important to maintain the appropriate temperature in the room where the child is staying, but not to overheat it with clothes. Light clothing and a blanket may be enough.

Home remedies for fever in a child – what not to do?

There are many home remedies for fever, but some of them can be dangerous. We do not recommend using alcohol or vinegar to lower your baby’s temperature as it may irritate the skin and eyes. Also avoid the use of aspirin in children because it may be associated with the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

Your suggestions

If you have any questions or suggestions about treating your child’s fever, consult your doctor or pharmacist. It is always worth obtaining information from professionals to provide your little one with the best care.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about your child’s health and how to deal with a fever, we recommend reading the following articles:

• How to deal with colds in children
• Principles of proper nutrition for children during illness
• Tips for parents in the event of high fever in an infant

By knowing what to do if your child has a fever, you can help ensure that your child recovers quickly and feels safe.