Fever Treatment For Families In 4 Easy-to-Remember Tips
As we enter into the winter season amidst a pandemic, many of us will encounter some illness. Having a fever during this time is normal and expected. Here are a few tips for how to manage:
- Know about healthy body temperatures
Fevers are different at every life stage, meaning you need to know what a healthy body temperature is for each family member. For instance, a child has a fever when their body temperature reading is over 103 degrees Fahrenheit, while an adult has it when they hit 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 48 hours. That’s why you should always have a thermometer at home and remember all the healthy body temperatures for checking.
If you have a baby under three months, fevers are more dangerous because their immune systems are still developing. If your baby’s body temperature is over 99 degrees Fahrenheit, consult your family doctor immediately.
- Drink over-the-counter medicines
You need to buy medicines for your family if they have a fever for more than two days. Fortunately, there are over-the-counter medicines at any local pharmacy. You should purchase fever-suppressing medication, like Tylenol, aspirin, and ibuprofen. However, you should also be careful about overdosing because it can affect your health.
As such, read the instructions for all your over-the-counter medicines or ask your local pharmacist about dosage instructions, like how many times a day you can take medication and whether it should be taken after a full meal. If your symptoms persist, consult your family doctor.
- Drink water and rest
Fever is an indication that your body is fighting an infection. For example, you may have COVID-19, and fever is one of the symptoms you could have, along with dry cough and fatigue. The best way to help someone with a fever is to have them rest and drink lots of water. It’s also wise to designate a room for your family member to rest in to avoid the spread of their infection.
- Consult with a naturopathic doctor
When your body has a fever, the presumed goal is to ensure your body temperature normalizes. However, the fever could just be a symptom of a severe infection that needs treatment.
Fortunately, naturopathic doctors can help you understand why your body’s immune system responded in such a way and find ways to treat the fever and the root cause. If you have any further questions on the medical practice of naturopathic medicine, visit our blog.
Conclusion
Fevers are a fairly common occurrence because they’re part of your body’s natural immune response against bacteria and viruses. Yes, you can do things to lower your fever and feel better, but you have to know the root cause for the sake of your health and well-being. Visit a naturopathic doctor today to feel healthier and understand your body holistically.