Can you use alcohol to wipe the palms when having a fever?
Disease description:
My daughter has a slight fever. I read on my phone that wiping the palms with alcohol can help reduce body temperature, and I'd like to consult with a doctor—can alcohol be used to wipe the palms when someone has a fever?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
It is not recommended to use alcohol to rub a child's palms when they have a fever, as children have delicate skin and alcohol can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin and mucous membranes of the palms and soles. This method of physical cooling is not effective. Parents are advised to give children an appropriate amount of warm water to drink, which helps promote sweating and urination, thereby aiding in lowering body temperature. If the child's temperature continues to rise, oral fever-reducing medication is necessary.
