Parents, let's be honest. Parenting can be an incredibly overwhelming journey and there is absolutely nothing in the world that prepares you for this roller-coaster ride. From feeling the first kick to the first time you hold the little one in your arms, there is no way you can get ready for the gush of emotions that you feel after becoming a parent.
After the intense ups and downs of nine months of pregnancy, you need to brace yourself for the journey called parenting--especially for the heart-wrenching times when your infant falls sick.
We understand that it can be heartbreaking to see your baby battle fever, but instead of panicking and getting worked up, it is important to be better equipped to deal with it.
Here's how you can do it:
1. How to check if your baby has fever
Touch the infant's forehead with the back of your hand, if it feels warm to touch, you need to measure it with a thermometer. Look for other symptoms like the baby acting fussy, cranky, sleepy and unusually tired.
2. Use the right thermometer
If your baby is less than 3 months old and has a body temperature more than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, it is strictly advisable to rush to the nearest paediatrician for more assistance. It is important that you measure the temperature using a rectal thermometer in case of infants. This is because their ear canals are very small to give correct readings.
Make sure that you wash the rectal thermometer in warm, soapy water before using it. Wait for a minute to get accurate readings.
3. You are the best judge
Even if the temperature isn't high enough to be considered a fever, notice the symptoms and act accordingly. While we understand that your baby's first fever can be a frightening event, it is important to look for other symptoms the newborn is exhibiting. Pay attention to behavioural changes like sleepiness, exhaustion and unusual irritability to vomiting, rash and inability to cry for a longer duration of time
The bottom line
While it is best advised to talk to your doctor in case your infant is suffering from a fever, you may also keep infant acetaminophen handy in case of emergencies. Remember, that it is only advisable for babies who are 6 months old and above. Also, remember that you should never give more than the required dosage to your baby and always measure it before feeding the baby.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician's advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details.
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