Managing Childhood Fever: Causes, Relief & When to Worry

To lower a fever, you can:

- Give the child over-the-counter fever reducers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Follow the dosing instructions on the medication label and never exceed the recommended dosage.

- Keep the child hydrated by giving them plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, or soup. Avoid giving the child caffeinated or sugary drinks, as these can worsen dehydration.

- Dress the child in light, loose clothing to help dissipate heat.

- Use a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air and help relieve congestion.

- Give the child a lukewarm sponge bath to help lower their body temperature. Avoid using cold water, as this can cause shivering, which can actually raise body temperature.

A child may feel cold when their fever is coming down because their blood vessels are dilating to release heat. This can cause their skin to feel cool to the touch, even if their internal body temperature is still elevated. If the child's extremities (hands, feet) feel cold to the touch, you can cover them with a blanket or socks to help them feel more comfortable. However, it's important to continue to monitor their body temperature and take any necessary steps to lower their fever.