Fever in children – 6 ways to deal with it

Do you feel lost when the thermometer records a temperature that's above the normal range for your baby? Well now know what you can do to give her some respite.

It's normal for you get agitated when your baby's temperature rises above normal but is it worth all the panic? What you need to realise is that fever isn't that bad an enemy -- it helps your baby fight infections. The high temperature actually helps release substances in the body that attacks the disease-causing agents and fever is the body's normal defence mechanism to help cure or limit a disease.

That being said, it isn't advisable for you to just take a wait-and-watch approach when your baby's temperature rises as that can cause adverse consequences. 'Fever in children especially the ones who are less than six months old needs to be taken very seriously. It's crucial that we reach the correct diagnosis and start the right treatment promptly,' says Dr Santanu Sen, consultant pediatrician, KokilabenDhirubhaiAmbani Hospital, Mumbai. A fever can be due to a viral infection, or at times can happen post vaccination, but also may be due to a bacterial infection which can be critical. 'A viral fever might upset your baby's routine and lasts for three to five days. It's rare for a minor viral infection to stay beyond that,' says Dr Sen. If after three days the fever still persists, the child would be examined promptly by your doctor to check for any serious infections.

Getting started with the treatment

Before you reach out for help, get started with the basics at home by following these simple tips:

Record the temperature: First check if her temperature has actually increased. 'To do it right get a proper digital thermometer that guarantees accuracy. Avoid old fashioned mercury bulbs ones. The other kind, that needs you to hold it on your baby's forehead, doesn't give an accurate reading. Also avoid the rectal ones which are really uncomfortable. A temperature that reads 37 degree C or 97.8 degree F is the normal temperature,' says Dr Sen.

Call your doctor: If you see that there is a rise in temperature, dial your pediatrician's number and ask for guidance. 'The best would be to bring the child to the clinic for a proper check-up. In case it isn't possible, follow your doctor's dictum carefully. Your doctor might ask you to give her paracetamol. Make sure you give her the right dosage and do not overdo it,' says Dr Sen.

Check on the clothings: Many times your baby might be warm if she is over-clothed. 'Take off the wraps, like the baby blanket, woollen garments and dress your baby light. Over-clothing can lead to warmth in the body and that's not always an indication of fever,' informs Dr Sen.

Keep your baby hydrated: Often your baby might lose interest in food with even a slight increase in temperature. 'In such a scenario never force-feed your baby. Instead offer more fluids like juices, water or feeds to keep your baby hydrated,' advices Dr Sen.

Give a sponge bath: If you notice that the temperature refuses to budge despite the paracetamol doses you offered, try a cold sponge bath . 'Just use normal tap-water while giving the sponge bath, don't use cold water from the freezer,' he warns.

Try to keep your little one comfortable: When a child has fever, parents tend to go overboard with clothes and and also switch off fans and air-conditioners. 'Instead see what makes your baby comfortable. Sometimes keeping the fan on at a lower speed can make your baby feel more comfortable, despite the rising heat within,' says Dr Sen.

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Apart from the rising temperature look for these following signs closely:

• Your baby acts irritable
• Suffers from loss of appetite
• Remains cranky
• Feels sleepy throughout the day
• Her colour turns bluish
• Suffers a bout of diarrhea
• Looks in one direction with a fixed gaze
• Suffers from vomiting episodes
• Breathes heavily
• Refuses to be breastfed

If you notice any of these aforementioned symptoms make sure you seek a doctor's appointment soon.

What to expect from your doctor

If your baby has been suffering from fever for more than three or five days, your doctor might advise further investigations like:

A blood test: A blood test is done to check the complete blood count. A blood leucocyte count of more than 15,000/mm3 may indicate a bacterial infection which might need antibiotics. A blood test might also be needed for other viral infection like malaria, typhoid, dengue, etc.

A urine test: Sometimes a urinary tract infection can also cause fever in children. So a urine test becomes a necessity.

Your baby might have to undergo other diagnostic tests depending on your baby's health status and doctor's diagnosis.

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