The body’s first natural reaction to an invasion by some foreign bacteria or unknown virus is to heat up, which usually produces a fever. This body heat is actually caused by an internal battle as antibodies are created to fight the invaders. It’s also a good sign – the body is fighting back against an illness – though it can make the sufferer miserable.
Does your child have a fever?
The best way to measure temperature is with a digital thermometer placed under the arm, making sure there is no clothing between skin and thermometer. A reading over 38 degrees Celsius is generally considered synonymous with fever.
How to treat fever
A fever can’t be treated: it is a symptom of illness and not an illness in itself. However, administering paracetamol or ibuprofen will make a child more comfortable, but that really is it. Be careful you don’t overdo dosages, though. Use only as directed!
Make sure plenty of fluids are taken: breast milk for babies, water, or rehydration fluids are all good choices.
Watch for complications
Be wary of complications and your child’s condition moving on from fever. A fever is a common cause of seizure, but you should be on the lookout for other symptoms, such as:
- Lethargy
- Lack of urinating
- Floppiness of limbs
- Not wanting to drink
- Rash
- Abnormal behaviour
As well as administering pain relieving medicine, you may want to remove some of your child’s clothing. If they start shivering, cover with a blanket: shivering creates body heat and will worsen the fever. For this reason you should never put your child in a cold bath or under a cold shower.
In some cases, fever may cause what is known as rigors – shaking of the arms and legs while remaining conscious. If this happens, you should visit the doctor or request a home visit.
