What can you do yourself to relieve your child's fever?
Fever usually progresses in three phases. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
1) Increase in fever: The fever rises to a certain temperature.
● Common symptoms: Chills, shivering, cold and pale skin.
● Measures: If cold, the body should be kept warm, e.g. by turning up the room temperature, covering up, wearing warm clothing and drinking hot drinks.
2) Peak fever: The temperature reached is maintained.
● Common symptoms: Hot, very red, dry skin and glassy eyes, fatigue and loss of appetite.
● Measures: If your child feels very hot, have it wear loose clothing, remove blankets, provide cool drinks, lower the room temperature, allow fresh air in but avoid draughts. Lukewarm leg compresses have a fever-reducing effect and are suitable for children aged 6 months and over (use for a maximum of 10-20 minutes and only if the legs are warm).
3) Drop in temperature: The fever drops back to normal temperature.
● Common symptoms: Hot and sweaty skin and perspiration.
● Measures: Change bed linen and clothes if required.
In general:
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Are you unsure? Then call 1450, the telephone health counselling service.
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● Your child should drink plenty of water or unsweetened tea (50-80ml per kg body weight).
● Your child should be kept in bed and sleep as much as possible. Keep your child occupied with restful tasks.
● From a rectally measured temperature of 38.5-39°C, it is recommended to use antipyretic medication, but always in consultation with a doctor.
● Children should never be given aspirin, as the active ingredient it contains can cause Reye's syndrome!