Fever
We brought the kids away during the weekend yesterday. My gal was having some fever initially, but we decided to carry out the trip as planned since she is still alert. Besides, it’s not a high fever, but her temperature was just slightly higher. We took the paracetamol given by her paediatrician along, just in case. Maybe it’s the cool weather of the place that we went to yesterday, she was doing very well and she had a good appetite too. By night time, her temperature dropped and she was recovered.
When my kids were younger, the first thing I did when they had a fever was going to the doctor. Some old folks like MIL will be very anxious if young babies are having fever as they said it might affected their brain development. But for most of the time, a fever is the first sign that the body is fighting against an infection. But if you are concerned, just bring your baby to the doctor. He’s the best person to judge is your baby is alright.
At some cases, it’s advisable to pay the doctor a visit.
Common guidelines are: • If your baby is less than 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4 degrees F (38 degrees C) or higher, call the doctor immediately. A baby this young needs to be checked for serious infection or disease.
• For a baby between 3 and 6 months old, call if his temperature reaches 101 degrees F (38.3 degrees C) or higher.
• If your baby is 6 months or older, call if his fever reaches 103 degrees F (39.4 degrees C) or higher.
Most parents have a thermometer at home and it’s very useful when a baby is down with a fever. We have to monitor and get the measurement, instead of touching the forehead and judging from the heat. Besides, keep sponging the baby and change her into loose clothing. Some older generation of Chinese will dress a fever baby in more clothing, but this is not advisable. The baby will have a hard time releasing the heat from her body and that might lead to other complication. The thumb of rule is, if you are not sure of anything, bring the baby to the doctor.
