FEVER

The average normal temperature in a healthy human is said to be 37°C, but this can vary quite markedly.  Often people, adults and children, can run a fever of up to 40°C for several days with no danger.  A temperature of  40.5°C is a serious cause for concern, but it is only when it passes above 41°C that there is a risk to life.

SEEK HELP IF:

• a baby under six months old has a fever.
• an older baby has a fever of over 40°C that does not respond to sponging and homoeopathic treatment within 24hours.
• your family has a history of convulsions accompanying fevers – keep a close eye when your baby throws a fever.  It is the rapid rise in temperature that can cause a fit.
• the baby or older child is also refusing to drink (is thirstless) as dehydration can occur.
• there is a lack of reaction (listlessness and limpness), which can imply that a serious illness such as pneumonia or meningitis has developed.

 
Young mother:  Doctor, in case of fever, how will I know when to bring my child to you ?
Old pediatrician: "Madam, a lot of that depends on your nerves."

DO AND DONT'S

• Don’t encourage a sick child to eat.  Fasting encourages the body further to eliminate toxic wastes and helps it focus on recovery.
• Do encourage a feverish child to drink plenty of fluids or at least sips of water at frequent intervals.
• Don’t give any homoeopathic remedy at first sign of a rise in temperature, neither suppress a fever in children with aspirin.  Any attempt to interrupt the body’s own healing prosesses is unwise as this can confuse the symptom picture.  
• Do wait until a fuller picture developes when other symptoms emerge.
• Don’t immerse a feverish child in a bath with cold water.
• Do use lookwarm water to sponge down one limb at a time.  Sponging the face and forehead alone can also give relief

 “Give me a fever and I can cure the child” - Hippocrates

SNIPPETS

Invest in a good modern digital thermometer that gives a quick and accurate reading.  

Respond to the needs of your child – Keep a hot feverish baby lightly dressed and a chilly feverish child (who feels cold and shivers) well covered.

Fever is a symptom and not a disease – it could be a helpful and necessary healing stage of an acute disease.

Article by Sister Alida
Registered Nurse