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How to perform physical cooling for a child with fever

Dec 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Physical cooling methods for a child with a fever include encouraging the child to drink more warm water, adjusting clothing appropriately, wiping the body with warm water, applying cold compresses, and lowering the ambient temperature. During physical cooling, parents should closely monitor the child's body temperature and overall condition. If the child's temperature continues to rise or other uncomfortable symptoms appear, prompt medical attention should be sought.

Generally speaking, fever refers to elevated body temperature. Physical cooling methods for children with fever include drinking more warm water, appropriately adjusting clothing, warm water sponge baths, cold compresses, and lowering the ambient temperature. If discomfort persists, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Drink more warm water

Fever accelerates fluid loss in children. Drinking more water not only replenishes lost fluids and prevents dehydration but also helps reduce body temperature by promoting sweating and urination to remove excess heat.

2. Appropriately adjust clothing

Avoid dressing the child in too many clothes or covering them with thick blankets. During high fever, body temperature gradually rises, so reducing clothing appropriately can facilitate heat dissipation and lower body temperature. At the same time, ensure the child does not get chilled. Adjust clothing based on environmental temperature and the child's comfort level.

3. Warm water sponge bath

Use a towel soaked in warm water at 37–38°C to gently wipe the child's body repeatedly, especially areas with abundant large blood vessels such as the armpits, groin, and neck. This promotes blood circulation and helps dissipate body heat, effectively lowering body temperature.

4. Cold compress

A cold towel or ice pack can be applied to the child's forehead, neck, or armpits, or fever-reducing patches can be placed on the forehead, temples, or palms. This method helps constrict blood vessels, reduce local blood flow, and lower the temperature of the affected tissues.

5. Lower the ambient temperature

Maintain good indoor air circulation and appropriately reduce the indoor temperature by opening windows, using air conditioning, or fans. This reduces heat accumulation on the child's body surface, aiding in heat dissipation and cooling.

During physical cooling, parents should closely monitor the child's body temperature and overall condition. If the child's temperature continues to rise or other symptoms of discomfort appear, seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's recommendations for treatment.

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