Children’s health is a top priority for parents, especially first-time mothers. Fever is common in children and often causes concern, but it is usually a natural response of the body rather than a disease itself.
What Causes Fever in Children?
Fever commonly occurs as the immune system fights infections. Other causes include fatigue, dehydration, viral or bacterial infections, teething, vaccinations, overdressing, or hot weather. The brain raises body temperature to help combat germs. Not every fever signals a serious illness.
If a child with fever is active, eating well, and has normal skin color, there is usually no need to worry. In many cases, the fever subsides within three days on its own.
Home Remedies to Reduce Fever
Parents can help manage fever at home by:
Encouraging fluids: Water, diluted fruit juice, warm broth, or homemade ice pops prevent dehydration.
Ensuring rest: Quiet activities like reading help the child recover faster.
Using warm baths or compresses: Lukewarm water or warm compresses on the forehead, armpits, or groin can lower temperature.
Cooling the body: Light clothing, proper air circulation, and wiping the body with warm water help regulate heat.
Traditional remedies: Ginger water may help, but it should be given in small amounts and sweetened if needed.
Fever-reducing medication: Paracetamol can be used when necessary, but aspirin should never be given to children.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical care immediately if:
The child is under 3 months old with a fever.
The temperature exceeds age-specific limits (above 38.3°C for infants, 38.8°C for older babies, or over 40°C at any age).
The fever lasts more than three days.
Fever is accompanied by serious symptoms such as stiff neck, breathing difficulty, rash, seizures, ear pain, or severe headache.
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