What is Fever?
Normal body temperature is around 37°C (98.6°F) ± 0.6°. When the body detects any infection or inflammation, the brain responds by raising the body temperature to help fight the condition. So, fever is sort of body’s defense mechanism against various types of insult. A rectal temperature of over 38°C (100.4°F) is considered as fever.
Measuring Fever
The axillary (armpit) method is fairly precise and most commonly used in children. Measure temperature by Digital Thermometer, Do not use a mercury thermometer, as it is toxic and could break.
What to do?
- Keep the child well hydrated. Children may lose more fluids during fever.
- Paracetamol is safest medicine for fever. Use it as per advice by your doctor
- Consult a pediatrician at earliest if fever lasts long.
- Always use tepid water for sponging. Do not use cold water or ice for sponging.
What not to do?
- Do not overdress the child. Have him/her wear loose clothes, as per season.
- Do not use aspirin or nimesulide for control of fever. Do not use antibiotics without consultation with your doctor.
- Do not keep treating fever at home or by yourself based on internet information.
