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Home Remedies for Fever in Babies

Team AckoDec 3, 2024

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If your baby is experiencing a mild fever due to the flu season, teething, or vaccination, home remedies are an effective way to manage it. Fever is a common occurrence that everyone experiences occasionally, especially children. It is important to take gradual steps to reduce the fever. In this article, we will discuss the most efficient methods to bring down a baby's fever.

Contents

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Understanding Fever in Babies

Even a simple sneeze can worry any parent, but here we are talking about fever. Although fever is not a significant illness, it can cause panic in new parents. It is usually a healthy response of the body’s immune system to a virus or bacterial infection. When viruses attack the body, it often develops a fever to kill those harmful pathogens. While there is no need to focus solely on medication for fever in babies, extremely high or persistent fevers may require emergency medical consultation.

There are various Indian home remedies for fever and colds in toddlers, which help lower babies' temperature. Fever in newborns or babies up to 3 months of age is always a matter of concern. It is advisable to seek medical treatment at any temperature higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. In babies aged 3-6 months, a temperature of 101 degrees and above is considered high, and a fever of 102 degrees and above in a baby aged 6 months or older needs immediate medical consultation.

In addition to taking the medication prescribed by your paediatrician, you can read up on how to bring down baby fever online. You can also follow home remedies, especially Indian home remedies for colds in toddlers, to help reduce the fever in babies.

Home Remedies for Fever in Babies

Apart from medicines, you can try to reduce a baby’s fever with some safe home remedies. Though these home remedies will not help cure the underlying illness, they can help lower the body temperature and make the child comfortable. Here are a few home remedies for fever in babies:

1. Cold compresses

Put a cool, wet, washed cloth on your little one’s forehead. As the water from the wet washcloth evaporates from the skin, it will cool your child and bring their temperature down quickly. This age-old home remedy for fever in babies is the easiest method for lowering the baby’s body temperature.

2. Lukewarm water bath

A lukewarm water bath or sponge bath will ease a fussy baby by lowering their body temperature.  However, it is essential never to use extremely cold or hot water as it may increase the body temperature of the infant.

3. Offer plenty of fluids

If your baby is breastfeeding, try to feed them frequently. Breast milk is easily digested and will strengthen your baby’s immune system, help fight against viruses more effectively, and aid in quicker recovery. For babies aged 6 months and older, you can also offer liquids other than milk to keep them hydrated. In addition to water and oral rehydration solutions, cold milk, ice pops, fruit juice, and yoghurt can be given to babies of this age. These home remedies for fever in babies will help cool the body from the inside out.

4. Remove the extra layers of clothing

While suffering from a cold, our first instinct is to layer up. However, it is important not to go overboard while dressing up your child when they are suffering from a cold. Remove the extra layers of clothing so that your baby can lose body heat more easily. Dress your baby in one layer of cotton clothes. Change your baby’s clothes once they become soaked with sweat. If needed, use a light blanket to cover them while sleeping. Keep the room temperature regular.

Indian Home Remedies for Cold in Infants

In addition to administering medicine or applying the above-mentioned home remedies, you should also take care of your baby’s food to help them gain relief from fever. If your baby is over 6 months old and has started eating solids, then here are a few foods to be given during fever to help boost their energy. Listed below are some Indian home remedies for colds in infants:

1. Dal khichdi

Dal khichdi with ghee is the best food for your child. Dal khichdi is easy to digest and provides all the essential nutrients your child needs, while ghee aids digestion and boosts immunity.

2. Soup

Since your baby is on a liquid diet, soups can be an excellent option for providing the necessary nutrition and warmth to alleviate their discomfort. Vegetable soups, in particular, can supply essential nutrients that help the body fight fever more effectively while reducing symptoms of tiredness.

3. Sago water 

Sago water or sabudana water contains enough protein and calcium for the muscles to grow. Sago is also known for regulating body temperature and is recommended during a fever. This home remedy for babies helps keep them hydrated and can aid in reducing their temperature. 

4. Some cereals

Dalia porridge, rice cereal, and curd rice can be given to your child, but only if they are over 11 months old and not suffering from a cold. You can combine seasonal vegetables with cereals to enhance their nutritional value, and fruits can provide an extra energy boost for a child recovering from a cold. In addition to these cereals, fruit and vegetable purées are excellent energy boosters that help your baby fight against pathogens more effectively. Cereals, fruits, and vegetables form an essential part of home remedies for a baby with a cold.

5. Turmeric and carom seeds

Both turmeric and carom seeds have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is a natural antibiotic, and carom seeds have essential oils that help regulate the digestive juices of the body. Therefore, using turmeric and carom seeds while preparing your baby’s food is an excellent way to increase their immunity. Both the ingredients are antibiotic in nature, helping fight bacteria and reduce body temperature.

Regularly check your little one’s body temperature and call the doctor immediately if they have other symptoms along with fever, like vomiting, excessive sweating, or shivering.  In the meantime,  help them lower their body temperature with these  effective home remedies for fever in babies.

Conclusion

While a fever in babies can be concerning, it is often manageable with safe and effective home remedies. Using methods like cold compresses, lukewarm baths, and ensuring proper hydration can help reduce fever and provide comfort. Additionally, nourishing foods like Dal Khichdi, soups, and Sago water can aid in recovery. Always monitor your baby's condition and consult a paediatrician if the fever persists or other concerning symptoms arise. With the right care and attention, you can help your baby recover quickly and safely from a mild fever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a list of FAQs about Home Remedies for Fever in Babies

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1. Are home remedies safe for reducing fever in babies?

Mild home remedies, such as tepid sponging and hydration, are generally safe for reducing fever. However, it’s essential to consult with a paediatrician, especially for babies under six months, to ensure that any approach is safe and effective.


2. Can I give my baby herbal teas or remedies for fever?

It’s best to avoid giving herbal teas to babies under six months. For older babies, consult a paediatrician before introducing any herbal remedies, as some may cause allergic reactions or interact with other medications.


3. How can I keep my baby hydrated during a fever?

If your baby is breastfeeding, offer milk frequently, as it provides hydration and immune support. For babies on formula, you can also offer small amounts of water if recommended by a paediatrician. Keeping them hydrated is crucial, as fever can lead to dehydration.


4. What clothing is best for my baby during a fever?

Dress your baby in lightweight clothing and avoid heavy blankets, as this allows heat to escape. Overdressing can cause body temperature to rise, making the fever more uncomfortable.


5. What signs indicate that my baby’s fever requires medical attention?

Seek medical attention if your baby has a fever over 100.4°F (38°C) if under three months old, or if they are older and have a persistent high fever, appear lethargic, have trouble breathing, or show signs of dehydration. Any seizure or unresponsiveness also requires immediate medical care.

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

 

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