Breaking a Fever in Children

It's a familiar scenario if you're a parent: your child looks up at you with a glazed-over gaze, his limbs slow-moving and body lethargic. One quick touch to his forehead signals the empathetic parental alarm: "Oh, honey, you're burning up!"

What Causes a Fever?

• Before you begin to pace back and forth in a fit of parental worry, know this: A fever is one of the body's first line of defenses against harmful bacterial or viral intruders. A fever signifies that your child's body has been infected with some kind of microorganism, most of which are extremely sensitive to changes in temperature.

  By raising the basal body temperature by a few degrees, the bacteria and viruses no longer feel "comfortable," and cease multiplying. Without the ability to reproduce, the bacteria die off and the infection can be managed and cured.

  Sometimes, though, fevers can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. In some cases, the brain raises the body's temperature too much, which can be harmful. If your child is complaining of severe discomfort, there are several steps you can take to relieve her pain.

Soothing Remedies to Break the Fever

• A cool wash cloth on the face and forehead feels great to a child with a fever. While this tip won't break the fever directly, it can help comfort your child if he has a low-grade fever. Rinse and reapply the cloth to the forehead every 15 minutes so it stays cool. You may also use an ice pack covered in a clean towel.

  Another easy option to ease the pain and encourage the fever to break is to take a cool bath. Remember that the water should be no cooler than room temperature. Extremely cold water will not only be uncomfortable to your child, but it can be dangerous. The water should mimic the temperature of that of a swimming pool--about 77 to 83 degrees F. Allow her to lay back and relax for about 15 minutes. It is likely that she'll feel better afterward.

  There are also many over-the-counter medications that are helpful in breaking fevers. Medicines that contain acetaminophen (Children's Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Children's Advil) are excellent ways to reduce your child's fever. Follow the dosing instructions on the box carefully, and be sure to purchase a product that is suited for your child's age and weight. These medicines also help to relieve minor aches and pains that are often associated with fevers.

Considerations

• While your child is under the weather, be sure to keep her hydrated with cool water or fruit juices. Dehydration can aggravate a fever and cause it to increase.

  If your child has a fever that exceeds 104 degrees F when measured orally (103 by armpit) or is persistent and lasts more than three days, you should consult a doctor immediately.