Fevers can happen to every infant. It is the body's natural way of defense when something goes wrong from the inside. Fevers are not the real enemy; but with the high body temperature, lack of appetite and fussy feeling on the child, it is necessary for parents to be knowledgeable in handling fever well.
Fever is the body's natural reaction to any form of disorder. The heat is the body's way of making itself an uncomfortable shelter for germs. To infants it can be a sign for the need for medical evaluation. When accompanied by rashes, parents should see pediatricians right away, according to Bundoo.
Normal body temperature should be 98.6°F or 37°C. A rectal temperature of 100.4 °F or 38 °C on children means that they are having a fever. It means that the thermostat in their brain has risen the body temperature above its normal level, according to Kids Health.
Infants and children with stronger immune system may not necessarily require for fever handling or treatment. Oftentimes when the body is healthy, the fever will just go.
High fever, on the other hand, may cause an even more serious problem like seizures, hyperthermia and loss of body fluid. The best way in handling fever on infants is to help the body temperature cool down.
Medications such as Acetaminophen for infants and Ibuprofen and Naproxen for babies 6 months and above are widely available in the market. Medical advice, however, should be considered with regards to the amount and frequency of taking medicine. Parents should also increase the liquid intake of the child during fever, according to Web MD.
Parents may also consider reducing the baby's body temperature by putting a damp cloth on the baby's forehead. Sponge bath can also be helpful but be careful not to prolong the process as it may cause chilling thereby worsening the problem. If possible stay indoors and make the child have enough rest in a comfortable well-ventilated room, according to Baby Center.
Handling fevers on infants and children can very easy but it is always safe to ask for the experts' advice should the temperature continues to rise.
