Fever

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Fever: Home Care & Treatment

Fever is the body's natural response to a variety of conditions. Usually this is a minor illness, but it can be a serious infection that requires immediate medical attention.

If the fever is mild and no other problems are present, no medical treatment is required. Drink fluids and rest. If a child is playful and comfortable, drinking plenty of fluids, and able to sleep, fever treatment is not likely to be helpful.

Steps should be taken to lower a fever if the person is uncomfortable, vomiting, dehydrated, or having difficulty sleeping. The goal is to lower, not to eliminate, the fever.

When trying to reduce a fever:

• Don't bundle up kids with chills.
• Remove excess clothing or blankets. The environment should be comfortably cool. For example, one layer of lightweight clothing, and one lightweight blanket to sleep. If the room is hot or stuffy, a fan may help.
• A lukewarm bath or sponge bath may help cool someone with a fever. This is especially effective after medication is given -- otherwise the temperature might bounce right back up.
• Don't use cold baths or alcohol rubs. These cool the skin, but often make the situation worse by causing shivering, which raises the core body temperature.
• Drink cool liquids, as tolerated.

• Acetaminophen and ibuprofen help reduce fever in children.
• Acetaminophen is given every 4-6 hours. It works by turning down the brain's thermostat. Ibuprofen is given every 6-8 hours. Like aspirin, it helps fight inflammation at the source of the fever. Sometimes doctors may advise you to use both types of medicine. Ibuprofen is not approved for use under 6 months of age.
• Aspirin is very effective for treating fever in adults. Aspirin should NOT be used in children.
• Fever medicines come in different concentrations, so always check the instructions on the package.
• Don't use any medicine to reduce fever in children under three months of age without first contacting a physician.