Proface

There are several moms and dads, grandparents, and caregivers who have always had a solid fear when the child they love or is in their care gets a fever. While I was growing up and perhaps even today this was called “fever phobia”. You recognize when they present it a name, it’s a very real thing! When I was a kid, I even remember what it was like after I got a fever. Normally I couldn’t rest, I didn’t want to eat, and although my Mom says I was “fairly good” after I got a fever, I recollect being crabby and difficult to pacify. I was treated with aspirin back then, an absolute no-no in this day and age.

These days, there is excellent patient teaching about fevers and if and exactly how to treat them. I’ve heard for years that fever is not the sickness, it is just a symptom of the sickness. Fever is the body’s mode of fighting off whatever infection is present. It is difficult to put that fact into perspective when your child or grandchild is burning up with a fever. I need to know just what to do and just how to take care of this.

I would like to make a significant point right now. If you have a newborn who is 3 months of age or under, this subsequent bit of data does not pertain to them. Medical treatment is necessary right away for newborns that young. It is imperative you have a medical, digital thermometer to use at this point. That said, I believe the major revelation for me, as far as treating fevers is concerned, was understanding that fevers don’t need to be ministered to with medication. Since fevers help the body fight infection, normally you want the fever to just run its course. If your child is uncomfortable (not eating, not resting, etc.) it is all right to give them a fever-reducer. It is important you remember though that your aim is not to bring the fever into the normal range, but rather to causeyour little treasure to feel more comfortable. At that point, be sure to follow the recommended dose on the fever-reducer you have chosen, using weight, not age, as your guide.