Temperature more than 102°F - 103°F in children is considered as high fever. Cold sponging of the body and head is of paramount importance in small children as they can get convulsions (fits) during high fever.
If the baby has a fit during fever, lay him on the stomach over a pillow to prevent choking. Vomiting during a fit can cause the secretion to go into the lungs.
During such a fit, arms and legs will shake with jerky movements and the child might go blue in the face. The fit lasts for a few seconds.
Call your doctor and while waiting for medical help, try to reduce the body temperature by cold water sponging.
During high fever, remove the clothes and starts sponging the body with cold water. Put a napkin soaked in cold water on the forehead every five minutes. Sponge the arms, front of chest, abdomen and back frequently. You can keep the fan running while sponging, if required.
Important: Ice cold water can be used for the sponging of the head. Do not apply ice cold water to large areas of the body and the abdomen, as it may cause chills and discomfort to the child.
One tablet of Paracetamol can be taken every 3-4 hours till the temperature comes down. In children (1-5 years) Paracetamol Syrup, two teaspoonfuls every 3-4 hours can be given safely. In very small children ½ teaspoonful or 8-10 drops of Paracetamol should be given.
Do not cover the patient with heavy blanks or put on too many clothes during high fever. One bed sheet over a shirt is enough.
Give plenty of cold water sips and fresh water to the child during high fever, It will help to bring down the temperature very fast.
Remember: If you do not give water to the child the temperature will not come down in spite of the best medicines.
Noting the temperature every 5-10 minutes is useless. Every half an hour is ideal during high fever.
Diet During Fever: Mostly liquid diet like plain water, fruit juices, milk, tea, coffee, besides bread, cornflakes, porridge and various soups can be given. Avoid heavy, fried and spicy foods. If there is vomiting, wait for 1-2 hours and then give food. Breast feeding can be done during fever.
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