You Give Me Fever...
There seems to be a "fever phobia" in New Zealand which is seeing pain relief medicines, commonly used by adults, being marketed towards children and babies suffering from mild fevers (36-38 degrees celsius is considered a normal temperature for a baby, anything over is considered a fever). While these medicines do have their place, there is information readily available that suggests use of these medicines during a mild fever may not be the best approach. I am not going to go into great detail on the subject as there is plenty of information out there to browse, but I am here to give you some information and an alternative way to help with a fever.
A low to medium grade fever is actually healthy (obviously provided it is not accompanied by more serious symptoms see below). It is the bodies way of killing off any nasty bugs and viruses in the body. To interfere with a fever can potentially make the illness last longer, be more severe and also keep coming back.
The homeopathic treatment Viburcol is something I always have on hand. It is great for restlessness and fevers in babies and children, and treats most common childhood infections. It works with the body to help the fever run its course quickly while also helping the body fight off infection. It can be used on all ages (I use this also) and it is a must for all parents to have on hand during the winter months.
No one likes to see their baby or child in distress and only you will know if he/she is really unwell or just a bit miserable with a fever. Monitor the fever frequently and if you are worried at any time get it checked out with your healthcare practitioner.
When To Call The Doc
If your baby is under under 3 months old and has a fever please get it checked out ASAP.
If the fever is over 40.6 degrees celsius
If your child is lethargic and hard to wake
If you see purple spots on your child's skin
Your child is having trouble breathing
Your child has a stiff neck
Your child is drooling and unable to swallow
The following link can also be quite helpful for assessing illness in babies under 6 months old http://www.nicutools.org/MediCalcs/BabyCheck.php3
www.rebalance.co.nz