How to Manage Your Child's Fever: A Parent's Essential Guide

Hello, dear reader. Today, I want to address a topic that every parent dreads: your child having a high temperature or fever. It's a situation that can cause immense worry and stress, but fear not, because I'm here to guide you through understanding what a high temperature in children is, how to properly check it, what steps to take if your child has a high temperature, and when you should seek urgent medical attention.

First, let's clarify what constitutes a high temperature in children. A normal temperature in babies and children is generally around 36.4°C (97.5°F), though this can vary slightly from child to child. A high temperature is defined as 38°C (100.4°F) or more. It's important to note that a high temperature is the body's natural response to fighting off infections, such as viruses and bacterial infections. This is actually a sign that the body is doing its job properly. The good news is that the temperature typically returns to normal within three to four days.

Now, you might be wondering how to accurately check your child's temperature. I recommend using a digital thermometer, which you can easily purchase from pharmacies and supermarkets. This will allow you to take your child's temperature accurately. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. **Place the Thermometer**: Insert the thermometer inside the top of the armpit.
2. **Close the Armpit**: Gently close the armpit over the thermometer, pressing it to the side of the body.
3. **Wait**: Leave the thermometer in place for the time specified in the instruction leaflet, usually between 5 and 10 seconds. Some digital thermometers will beep when ready.
4. **Read the Temperature**: Once removed, the display will show your child's temperature.

Remember, if your child has just taken a bath or has been wrapped in a blanket, their temperature might be temporarily higher. If this is the case, wait a few minutes and then take it again.

If your child does have a high temperature, you can usually manage it at home with a few simple steps. The temperature should go down by itself within three to four days. Here are some things you can do:

1. **Hydration**: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids, especially water. Watch for signs of dehydration, such as reduced tears when crying, dry skin and lips, sunken eyes, and fewer wet diapers.
2. **Nutrition**: Offer soft, easy-to-eat foods if they want to eat.
3. **Monitoring**: Check on your child regularly during the night but avoid disrupting their sleep too much.
4. **Medication**: Give paracetamol or ibuprofen if they are distressed or unwell, but always check the packaging to ensure the medicine is suitable for your child's age and weight. Consult a pharmacist if unsure.
5. **Rest**: Keep your child at home and avoid contact with others until their temperature returns to normal.

There are also some things you should avoid:

1. **Do Not Undress or Sponge Down**: A high temperature is a natural response to infection.
2. **Avoid Overheating**: Don't cover your child in too many clothes or bedclothes.
3. **No Aspirin**: Do not give aspirin to children under 16 years of age.
4. **Medication Caution**: Do not combine ibuprofen and paracetamol unless recommended by a doctor. Avoid giving paracetamol to children under two months and ibuprofen to children under three months or under 5 kilos. Do not give ibuprofen to children with asthma or chickenpox unless advised by a healthcare provider.

In certain circumstances, you should seek medical attention:

- If your child is under three months old with a temperature of 38°C or higher.
- If they are between three to six months old with a temperature greater than 39°C.
- If they show signs of serious illness, such as a rash, or if the high temperature lasts for five days or more.
- If they refuse to eat, are unusually drowsy, or show signs of dehydration.

In rare cases, seek immediate medical attention if your child has a high temperature accompanied by symptoms such as a stiff neck, a rash that doesn't fade under pressure, sensitivity to bright lights, seizures, unusually cold hands and feet, blue or blotchy skin, a high-pitched cry, extreme drowsiness or agitation, difficulty breathing, or if they are unresponsive.

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