How to Reduce a Baby's Fever
A kiss on the forehead or a light touch is often enough to determine whether a child has a fever. Reducing the fever takes a little bit more.
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New baby at home? Learn how to keep your baby safe and treat minor medical problems with this Howcast video series.
You Will Need
- Lukewarm bath
- Sponge
- Water, breast milk, or formula
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Doctor
- Oral syringe (optional)
Steps
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Consult your doctor before giving a baby any medication.
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Step 1
Reduce the fever
Reduce the baby's fever by giving them a bath or sponging them down with lukewarm water.
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Step 2
Stay hydrated
Keep the baby hydrated by giving them plenty of water, breast milk, or formula.
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Step 3
Avoid overdressing
Avoid overdressing or bundling them up before they go to sleep.
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Step 4
Give them medicine
Give your baby ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce a fever only if recommended by your doctor.
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Measure all medication with an oral syringe to make sure the right dosage is given. Consult your baby's pediatrician if you're unsure.
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Step 5
Call a doctor
Call your doctor if your baby's temperature rises above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, if they lose their appetite, look pale or flushed, or are unusually irritable. A doctor is always on call to answer your questions.
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Most people's body temperatures change throughout the day. They are usually cooler in the morning and warmer in the evening.
