For parents, fevers can be very distressing. However, most of the time it\u2019s a lack of understanding that can make them seem so worrying. In this article, we are going to explain what a fever is, what causes them, and how to avoid them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fever is the body\u2019s natural response to fighting infection, where the body\u2019s temperature is raised. An increased body temperature helps the immune system work more effectively. Studies have shown that our infection-fighting white blood cells are stimulated and there is an increased production of antibodies when our temperature is higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The second purpose of a fever is that elevated heat levels within the body have been found to slow down, and in some cases stop, the growth and reproduction of some kinds of bacteria that can\u2019t function in warmer environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We know that the science behind a fever can be overwhelming. However, the thing to bear in mind is that this is our body\u2019s immediate and highly effective way of fighting infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unfortunately, there\u2019s no simple explanation as to what external factor is causing a fever, as it can be a symptom of a multitude of illnesses. A fever is brought about as our immune systems flood our bodies with a substance that affects the hypothalamus, the area of the brain that controls temperature. The most common causes in children are upper respiratory tract infections, flu and ear infections. As the body fights these infections, a fever will quickly set in, leaving your little one feeling groggy, tired and bothered. As these afflictions take effect and the hypothalamus becomes activated, our temperature begins to rise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A fever is the body\u2019s natural response. So this presents a dilemma: at what point do you decide to intervene? While your little one will feel uncomfortable, the fever is actually helping their body fight the infection. It may be upsetting to see your child hot and bothered, but it is their body doing what it needs to in order for them to feel well again. General advice recommends that unless the child is obviously distressed, it\u2019s best to avoid reducing their temperature with antipyretics. That said, it is important to know the symptoms to watch that can accompany a fever. If the child at any point has a headache, has muscular pain, or becomes unresponsive, it is important to see a doctor immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep them hydrated \u2013 While your child\u2019s body responds to increased temperature as it fights the infection, it is important they remain hydrated. Once the fever takes hold, they will be losing fluids quickly through sweat, and these will need to be replaced. Either water, hydration fluids or milk will suffice, and if you\u2019re struggling to get them to drink, try offering their drink with a straw or in a special cup to make it more interesting and engaging for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let them rest \u2013 Encourage your child to rest, allowing their body to get well again. Knowing some effective and easy ways to help cool them down and feel more comfortable will help them relax, recuperate and get back to their usual selves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t forget to try to avoid the spread of the illness to yourself or other family members. Regularly disinfect surfaces and door handles, keep the room at a humidity level between 40% and 60%, and keep your family\u2019s immune system fighting fit with a healthy, nutrient-rich diet \u2013 looking after yourself can be as important as looking after them!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Remember, if you are at all worried, don\u2019t hesitate to seek expert medical advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Worried about fevers? You’re not alone. For parents, fevers can be very distressing. However, most of the time it\u2019s a lack of understanding that can make them seem so worrying. In this article, we are going to explain what a fever is, what causes them, and how to avoid them. What is a fever? Fever […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":10059,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[20],"class_list":["post-10056","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-fever","tag-fever"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n