You heave a sigh of resignation: your kid is running a temperature...again! But before you reach for the medicine cabinet, you should know that fever is the body’s natural defense system to fight infections, where the body increases its temperature to kill the bacterial or viral infection.
Most parents resort to paracetamol or ibuprofen - which are fever suppressants - to control their child's high temperature. The risk with these is that they suppress the fever but when they wear off, the fever could spike higher, making the illness drag on for longer.
Also, these medicines are associated with many other side effects. Paracetamol has been linked to asthma, and ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding, and may lead to kidney problems.
It is important that parents know about these potential risks and consider alternatives to bringing down a child’s fever before reaching into the medicine cabinet. Here are some ways to lower fever naturally.
1. Place a cool, damp washcloth on your child’s forehead
Ask your child to rest as you apply a cool compress on their forehead. You can even use cool packs that are readily available at pharmacies. Herbs such as lavender, chamomile and rosemary can be added to the compress for soothing comfort.
2. Give your child a lukewarm water or sponge bath
The lukewarm water will bring their temperature down. Do not use cold water as this will make them shiver and increase the fever. Add some Epsom salts to the water to soothe and calm the body.
3. Lots of rest is very important
Get your child to have plenty of rest. Strenuous physical activity will make the temperature go up and tire them. Make it an excuse to cuddle up with your little one and watch their favorite TV program.
4. Give plenty of fluids
One of the biggest risks of high fever is dehydration. Avoid this by giving your child plenty of fluids to drink. Try a light chicken broth, light herbal teas like ginger or mint sweetened with honey, and of course give them loads of water. You can also try frozen juice pops to cool their bodies from inside.
5. Boost the immune system
When kids are sick, one of the first things that gets affected is their appetite. They may eat small quantities of food, but make sure what they take in is nutritious. The chicken broth mentioned earlier is a very good option. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals that will help their bodies get better.
REMEMBER: Even the slightest temperature in a newborn could be cause for concern. Do not try any of these home remedies if your newborn gets fever. Instead, see a doctor without delay.
If you have any more tried and tested tips to lower fever in children, please leave us a comment.