Fever.. What to do ?

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Fever is a symptom, not a disease. It is the body's normal reaction to an infection. The fever helps fight the infection. A fever does not cause long-term problems until it reaches 107 degrees F (41.7 degrees C). A high fever may sometimes cause convulsions (seizures). Your child has a fever if:
 -The mouth temperature is higher than (38 degrees C).
 -The rectal temperature is higher than (38 degrees C).
 -The armpit temperature is higher than (37 degrees C).

Exercise, a hot bath, too much clothing, and hot weather can raise a child's temperature. Drinking or eating warm foods can also cause the temperature to rise. Wait 30 minutes and take the child's temperature again

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
If the child's temperature is higher than (38.3 degrees C), restrict activity or put the child to bed.
Encourage the child to drink extra fluids.

Give acetaminophen for the fever. Do not give your child aspirin.
If the child's temperature remains higher than (40 degrees C), it may be helpful to give the child a sponge bath. This should be done in a warm room with warm water. Using a damp wash cloth, gently rub the entire body. The child should be damp but not dripping wet. Do not use a fan or ice or cold water, and do not chill the child.
Take the child's temperature in the morning, at bedtime, and every 4 hours during the day, or more often if he or she looks ill.

Call Your Doctor If...
 -The child develops a temperature higher than (39.4 degrees C).
 -The child's temperature is higher than (37 degrees C) for more than 24 hours.
 -The child develops new symptoms.
 -The child has a marked change in behavior, level of consciousness, or level of activity.

Seek Care Immediately If...
The child develops a rectal temperature higher than (40.6 degrees C).
Your child has a seizure, develops abnormal movements of the face, arms, or legs.