Many people don’t know it, but a fever is actually a good thing. It’s your body’s attempt to burn out something that has invaded it, like a virus or infection. Even though fevers are used to defeat foreign invaders, they can still be deadly if uncontrolled. Here are some ways to bring down a fever safely.

1. Drink plenty of water – Your body can quickly become dehydrated from all the sweating and sneezing associated with flus and colds. Dehydration can lead to headaches, cramps, and even seizures. Have your kids drink at least two eight-ounce glasses of water every hour.

2. Wear loose clothing – To stay cool, put your kids in loose clothing and don’t let them huddle beneath blankets. You want air to circulate around their bodies to keep them cool.

3. Take over-the-counter medication – Depending on your child’s age and weight, some over-the-counter medications might be appropriate. Look into acetaminophen, ibuprofen or aspirin

4. Give a lukewarm bath – Room temperature water will feel cold when a body is hot, but it will help bring the temperature down. DO NOT plunge your child into ice water in an attempt to bring it down quickly – this shocks your body and triggers it to try and warm up further.

5. Cold towel on the head or neck – A towel soaked in cold water on your child’s head will him/her some relief to help them sleep. Also try a cold towel on the back of the neck. All the body’s blood flows through this passage, so you can cool it down here.

6. Consult the pediatrician – A child under three months should see a doctor if the fever reaches 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. A child three to twelve months old should see the doctor if the fever reaches 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit. Any child under two who has had a fever for two days should see a doctor.

7. Avoid inflammatory foods – A fever is actually a form of inflammation, so you want to avoid foods that cause more of it. Even though their normal inflammation is harmless, they can make a child even more miserable. Avoid fried foods, sugary treats, refined carbohydrates (white bread, pastries, etc.), and red and processed meat.

8. Sleep – The best thing you can do when you’re sick is sleep. Good rest empowers your immune system and helps you pass the miserable part. It might be tough, but encourage your kids to sleep.

Written by Alicia Overby - Founder & President of Baby Elephant Ears

Alicia is wife, mother, and creator of Baby Elephant Ears. Baby Elephant Ears was created out of parental concern, not financial desire. In 2005, when their second child was an infant, he cried all the time and just couldn't seem to get comfortable.

After seeking advice and suggestion from the medical community and alternative medicine, they eventually ended up in the chiropractors office where their baby was successfully treated for asubluxation, discomfort most likely the result of the strain during labor, which was now being exacerbated by the normal lack of infant neck strength. Only proper neck, head, and back alignment would offer him relief. When they couldn't find a product to give their baby the necessary support, Alicia took matters into her own hands and crafted her own infant support pillow. The first Baby Elephant Ears was born!

For more information, visit www.babyelephantears.com.

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