With the cold season ahead of us, many of you will have to care for a sick child over the coming months. Fevers occur frequently in children, but the good news is that fevers do help recovering from an illness. So let’s see why fevers are good and how to look after your sick child.
Why do fevers occur?
Fever is a reaction of the immune system to infections. Heat restrains microbes from growing and replicating so it’s a useful element of the healing process. Lowering down the body’s temperature will slow down the cure. So do not reach for paracetamol straight away!
So, what can I do to help my child?
Give them plenty of water to drink.
Water with lemon and honey or diluted fresh fruit juices are also good.
If they are very hot, sponge their face, limbs and body with lukewarm water and pat dry with a towel. Repeat several times as needed.
If necessary, an appropriate homeopathic remedy may be given.
Caution! See a doctor if:
– your baby is under 6 months old
– the fever is associated with breathing difficulties, coughing, convulsions, irritability, unusual drowsiness or lethargy, a mottled rash, high-pitched crying, headache or intolerance to light.
– the temperature goes above 40°C
What homeopathic remedies can I give my child with a fever?
Homeopathic remedies help the body’s healing ability and so can be given to a child with a fever. Choosing the appropriate remedy will depend on their symptoms. Here are three common remedies for fevers in children:
- Aconite
This remedy is useful if your child’s fever has started rapidly and is intense. They will often have red cheeks (but may look pale on rising). Their pulse may be rapid, their respiration quickened, and they will usually feel thirsty. The fever is often the results of being out in the cold and wind. Further symptoms pointing to Aconite includes aggravation in the night and great anxiety.
- Belladonna
This remedy is also to be considered if your child becomes ill with a fever quickly. Their face will be red hot, and the heat will radiate from their head. They will often have dilated pupils and the heat may bring them to delirium. They will feel better for being propped up and keeping still.
- Pulsatilla
Pulsatilla is frequently prescribed for children. If your child feels chilly despite the fever, lacks thirst and their symptoms are changeable, then Pulsatilla may be what they need. If your child is tearful and clingy whilst ill, then look no further and give it a try!
Note
If your child has a fever fairly suddenly, this usually means that his/her immune system is working well. Recurring fevers, gradual onset and milder fevers may indicate that your child’s immune system isn’t reacting as well. If this is the case, then you may want to consider a homeopathic constitutional treatment for your child to strengthen their immunity.
For more information, please contact me at priscille@priscillehomeopathy.co.uk or on 07387 422 848, or via my contact page.
Priscille Francetti LCCH MARH
Homeopath
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