What should I do if a 2.5-year-old child suddenly develops a fever in the middle of the night?
Disease description:
My child often suddenly develops a persistent low-grade fever at night and has some diarrhea. What should I do if a 2.5-year-old child suddenly has a fever in the middle of the night?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
If a two-and-a-half-year-old child suddenly develops a fever during the night, parents should remain calm. The following suggestions may help:
1. Measure body temperature: Use a thermometer designed for children to accurately check the temperature and confirm whether it exceeds 38°C.
2. Reduce clothing and bedding: If the room temperature is high or the child is overdressed or over-bundled, remove some clothing and bedding appropriately to help dissipate heat.
3. Wipe with lukewarm water: Use a towel soaked in lukewarm water to gently wipe areas where major blood vessels are close to the skin surface, such as the forehead, neck, armpits, and groin. This may help reduce body temperature.
4. Use a fever-reducing patch: Apply a fever-reducing patch to the child's forehead or temples. These patches use physical cooling methods to help lower body temperature.
5. Hydrate adequately: When a child has a fever, sweating may lead to dehydration. Offer the child more warm water to replenish fluids. Proper hydration supports the body's natural cooling mechanisms and helps fight infection.
