Caring For Children- What To Do If Your Child Has Fever

Have you ever experienced waking up at night because your child was shaking with high fever? Having a sick child at home is a cause for worry most especially if you’re a solo working parent. Now if you’re the doting mom, of course there’s no better way of making your tot feel at least comfortable than by having yourself at his side. Here are proven practical ways in caring for children when they’re sick:

• Temperature- Anything between 35.5 and 37.5 °C (others put it at 37.0 °C or 98.6 °F) is considered normal body temperature for anyone, young or old. Any change above the normal body temperature is already a fever. Fever is usually caused by infection. But it doesn’t always mean there’s a severe infection if the temperature is a bit higher. Just be around to take his temperature as needed. Also, you really don’t have to worry until you see a doctor. However, if it’s a very young infant who’s sick, bring him straight away to the doctor.

• Fever reliever- Give your kid paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) to relieve pain and fever. Given at the right time with the right dosage should be enough to bring the fever down in 24 to 48 hours. Give him a sponge bath of water or mild alcohol on the entire body. Change his clothing once he gets sweaty.

• Liquids- Small but frequent sips of water or fresh fruit juice prevent dehydration, a condition that sets in with high temperatures. I remember grandma used to have me drink cool water to lessen body heat during a fever. Also, be sure to have his favorite soup along with an attractive healthy meal. Remember, a feverish kid more often than not lose his appetite so it’s wise to have a colorful meal seasoned according to his taste. Fresh fruits or congee are good snack options. Healthy food gives your tot enough energy to withstand the fever.

• Beddings, fresh air and sun- You’ll make your child feel better with fresh beddings and linens to sleep on. If you’re living in a safe neighborhood, it’s best to have a window open to let fresh air in. Also whenever you can, expose him to early morning sunlight. These will give him enough comfort.

• And of course, top that with a mother’s healing touch. It can help calm your tot down, reduce the pain and stress. It could even help him recover fast, so give him a gentle massage. According to studies, healing touch is a great way to help people feel better physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. You get back the same treatment more or less if you get sick. There are a lot of ways in caring for children during an illness.

Have you any similar experience to add? Please share your thoughts and leave your comment.