What should I do if my baby has a fever after using the air conditioner?
Fever usually refers to an elevated body temperature. If a baby develops a fever after being exposed to air conditioning, treatment can include physical cooling methods and oral medications.
1. Physical Cooling
If the baby's body temperature is around 37.5–38°C, this is considered a low-grade fever, which can be managed with physical cooling measures. For example, apply a fever-reducing patch to the baby's forehead or wipe areas such as the armpits and groin with a warm, damp towel. Encourage increased fluid intake to help the body expel heat. Monitor the baby's temperature regularly during this time to observe any changes.
2. Oral Medications
If the temperature rises above 38.5°C, in addition to physical cooling, fever-reducing medication should be administered under a doctor's guidance. Commonly used medications include acetaminophen tablets and ibuprofen sustained-release liquid. Rectal suppositories may also be used, such as acetaminophen suppositories or ibuprofen suppositories.
If the fever does not improve significantly or continues to rise despite these measures, it is advisable to seek prompt medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. In daily care, ensure the baby stays warm and avoid exposure to cold temperatures.