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The Best Way to Reduce Fever in Young Children

Though extremely common in childhood, fevers can worry even the most seasoned parent--and with good reason. While temperatures can spike due to teething or even overdressing, the most common reason is infection. The body heats up as it fights off the offending virus or bacteria. It's actually a good sign that the immune system is doing its job. Since high fevers can pose dangers, however, knowing how to treat them is essential for anyone caring for small children.

  1. Confirm the Fever

    • A kiss to the cheek or hand on the forehead, it doesn't take much for most moms or dads to tell a child feels warm. But temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, and low-grade fevers may not require treatment at all. So, temperature taking is a must. Read the instructions for your thermometer carefully; some readings may be off by a degree or two based on how they work. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends treating fevers of 100.2 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

    Try Over-the-Counter Meds

    • Children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce a fever significantly. But never use aspirin, unless your child's doctor says it's OK, since it's linked to Reye's syndrome. Refer to the packaging for the correct dosage, which varies by weight and age. Pay attention to dosing frequency. If there's not information on the package for your child's age range, call the doctor for the proper dosage.

    Head to the Bath

    • A lukewarm bath can ease a child's fever and also can make her more comfortable. Make sure the water isn't too cool, as shivering raises body temperatures.

    Offer Fluids

    • Fever often is accompanied by sweating and loss of appetite, so dehydration is a major concern. While your child may not feel hungry, encourage sips of water, broth or juice. Or perhaps ice pops or flavored gelatin might be more appealing.

    Aim for Comfort

    • Keep the thermostat at a comfortable range. Dress your child in lightweight clothing and offer a light sheet or blanket. A heavier blanket may help for chills, but remove it when chills subside. You don't want to trap body heat in and raise temperatures.

    Stay Home

    • Keep your child out of school or day care for the duration of the fever or longer, depending on specific guidelines. Encourage lots of rest.

    Know When to Seek Help

    • While most fevers can be effectively treated at home, there are cases that demand the attention of a medical professional. Fevers in children younger than 3 months are always an emergency, as they can signal a serious infection. For older babies and toddlers, take into account your child's behavior and activity level in addition to the thermometer reading. Fevers that last for more than a few days or are accompanied by other symptoms, such as constant vomiting and diarrhea, warrant a call to the doctor as well.

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