Page 144 - (DK) Home Doctor: Providing practical advice on home treatments

142 COMMON CONDITIONS

PROBLEMS IN BABIES

Fever (babies)

A baby with a fever has a temperature that is raised persistently
WARNING
above 98.6ºF (37ºC). He or she may look flushed, and the forehead,
back of the neck, and body will feel hot, although the hands and Seek immediate medical help if:
feet may be cold. The baby may be irritable and refuse feedings. ● Your baby’s breathing is fast or
labored, or he or she is drowsy
Fever is often due to an infection such as a cold, or to being too hot ● Your baby has had a convulsion
or overdressed. Mild fever after immunizations is also common. ● Your baby has a red rash that does
not fade when pressed (see p.150)
See also Febrile seizures, p.167.

See your doctor first
DRUG REMEDIES
Arrange to see your doctor promptly if:
● Your baby is under 6 months old Analgesics such as acetominophen and
● An older baby is not feeding and/or has ibuprofen can be given in liquid form to reduce a
baby’s fever. If your baby spits the medicine out, try
vomiting and diarrhea or a rash, or you are
using a syringe (available from your pharmacist) to
in any way concerned about your baby
introduce it slowly, but don’t squirt
it into the back of the mouth
since it may cause choking.
What you can do yourself Don’t give acetaminophen to
babies under 2 years
You should be able to reduce a fever using the of age or ibuprofen
following steps, although a mild fever can often be to babies under
left to run its course if your baby is otherwise well. 6 months, except
on a doctor’s advice.
● Undress your baby down to a diaper and undershirt
to cool him or her down. Don’t overdress your baby Medicine
or swaddle him or her in blankets – babies can syringe
overheat if dressed or covered too warmly. Gently squirt the
medicine into the
● Take your baby’s temperature (see PRACTICAL
inside of your
TECHNIQUE: TAKING A CHILD’S TEMPERATURE, p.135). baby’s cheek.
● Give an analgesic to reduce your baby’s
temperature (see DRUG REMEDIES, right).

● Give your baby cooled, boiled water in a bottle
in between bottle feedings. If you are breast-feeding, Seek further medical advice
try to increase the length or frequency of feedings.
Arrange to see your doctor if:
● Make sure your baby’s room is at a comfortable
● Your baby is not getting better within 24
temperature. Use an electric fan if the room is hot.
hours, or his or her temperature continues
● Sponging or bathing with lukewarm water is not to rise despite the measures described above
recommended since it may worsen a fever. ● Your baby develops new symptoms