There can be a number of instances when babies can suffer from fever. A number of times parents often wonder as to “what is considered a fever in babies?” While there are a number of medications that are available to treat fever in babies, nothing works better than natural home remedies. Also, there can be a number of reasons for the occurrence of the same. In this article, let us learn about what causes fever in babies and know a few home remedies to treat it.
What is Considered A Fever in Babies?
When the temperature of the body increases above the normal range, it is considered a fever in a child. Most of us often hear that the normal range is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Centigrade. It does not apply to everyone. The normal body temperature can vary from person to person and is also different for adults and kids.
As per NIH, also known as the National Institutes of Health, a baby is said to have a fever when the body temperature is more than “99.5 degrees F, or 37.5 degrees C”. Did you ever wonder as to what temperature is a fever in babies? While babies can have a mild fever in winter or rainy seasons. It is also said that it can be a symptom of other conditions like cold or flu. Fever in kids or adults occurs when the body fights an existing infection.
Other Reasons for the Cause of Fever in Babies are
- Ear infections
- Due to immunization
- Unhygienic lifestyle, etc.
A number of doctors consider a fever to be good as it helps build the immunity in kids. And in many cases, fever goes away in a few days. But if you see that your baby has a high temperature, which is making him/her uncomfortable, you can try out some home remedies to cool down the body. So, if you are wondering is a temp of 99 a fever, then yes. In cases when fever exceeds 104 degrees F, or 40 degrees C, it is important to see the doctor immediately.
Home Remedies For Fever in Babies
It is also recommended to cure the fever in infants in time. Though you can use drugs, they are not recommended for mild fever as babies have a weak immunity system. Fortunately, you can make use of some home remedies that will provide relief from discomfort.
Turmeric
One of the most used and safest home remedies to treat fever in babies is turmeric. Turmeric is known to be antibacterial and is antiviral as well. The herb has curcumin, which will help in the elimination of flu from within. This can be used without a second thought as it also shows a very positive impact on the baby’s immunity system.
If your baby has fever temperature, mix about ½ a spoon of turmeric powder in a little warm milk. You can even add a very little pepper to the same. You can let the baby have this mixture little at a time for at least 2 or 3 times in a day.
Raisin
Raisins can also be used to treat fever in babies. Raisins contain good amounts of phenolic phytonutrients and have antibacterial properties as well and this helps to quickly reduce the body temperature.
Put the raisins in water until they become soft. Crush them along with the water. Strain this mixture and add a few drops of lemon juice. Let your baby have a spoonful of this for a few days.
Garlic
Garlic is one of the most used natural remedies to treat fever in babies and toddlers. Use of garlic causes sweating and this helps in reducing the body temperature. Garlic is also known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties and this improves the immunity in babies.
Take a few garlic cloves and crush them. Add this crushed mixture to boiling water. Let the garlic sit for about 10 minutes and strain the water next. Let your baby have a spoonful of this water 2-3 a day.
Ginger
The Ginger is used as a spice and also a herb to treat various health ailments. Ginger can also be used to treat fever in babies and it also helps to boost the baby’s immunity. You can make use of powdered ginger. Just take a little amount of powdered ginger and mix it with warm water. Make sure that the water is not too hot. You need to make your little one sit in the water for about 10 minutes before bedtime. Once done, pat him/her dry.
You can also use freshly grated ginger mixed with hot water. This can be given as syrup as it prevents any kind of discomforts.
Egg Whites
Egg white’s work wonders when used in a right way. This is one of the simplest of all the available home remedies to treat fever in kids. Egg whites work as a cooling gel and help lower the temperatures. All you need is 2-3 eggs, which you need to beat well. Dip a soft cloth into this egg white mixture and place the cloth over the soles. You can even use socks so that the cloth does not fall off. You can repeat this procedure after 5-6 hours to see a gradual dip in temperature.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is a natural cooling agent and is also known for its amazing therapeutic qualities. You can take about ½ a spoon of pure sandalwood powder and mix water in it to make a paste. You can apply this paste over the forehead of your baby. This helps to naturally reduce the temperature in babies.
Water
You might be wondering as to what water might do, but it is very important for the overall health of your baby. When your baby suffers from mild fever, it is important you give sufficient water to your baby. You can even use different kinds of fresh juices like lemon juice or orange juice as it is quite beneficial for immunity.
Now that you have known what is considered a fever in babies, make sure to use natural home remedies to provide relief to your baby.
Medically Reviewed By
Maanasi specializes in health topics including diet and nutrition. A mother of an untiring seven year old, she enjoys nurturing her love affair with English. She is often found nestled with a book, plopped against a dozen pillows, smiling away at the brink of finishing yet another book of the many dozens, that adorn the shelves of her Mini Library!
