When your child has a temperature does it send you into a panic? Before you hit the calpol, read on, understanding the process of fever may help alleviate some of that anxiety.

Fever is one of the immune systems way of neutralising a threat inside the body (bacterial or viral). A temperature is considered elevated when it is higher than 100 degrees F (37.7 C). Although, it can be uncomfortable, it is a protective response and enhances the body’s defense mechanisms.

At some point, most children develop high fevers with minor viral illnesses. While a fever signals that a battle might be going on in the body, the fever is fighting for the person, not against.

Brain damage from a fever generally will not occur unless the fever is over 107.6 °F (42 °C). Untreated fevers caused by infection will seldom go over 105 °F unless the child is overdressed or trapped in a hot place.

Febrile seizures do occur in some children. However, most febrile seizures are over quickly, do not mean your child has epilepsy, and do not cause any permanent harm.

Understandably, some parents reach for Calpol or Calprofen or other similar products in an attempt to bring the fever down. These drugs are antipyretics, they send a message to the brain telling it to stop the fever but do not address the bacterial or viral invader. As fever helps defend the body against infection, there is debate as to whether it should be routinely treated. It’s possible that repeated unresolved fevers could eventually lead to a weakened immune system.

What steps can you take to help?

If the fever is mild and there are no other problems, treatment is not necessary. Drinking fluids and resting are the best course of action.

The illness is probably not serious if your child:

- Is still interested in playing

- Is eating and drinking well

- Is alert and smiling

- Has a normal skin color

- Looks well when their temperature comes down

When trying to lower a fever

Take steps to lower a fever if your child is uncomfortable, vomiting, dehydrated, or not sleeping well. Remember, the goal is to lower, not eliminate, the fever

– Do NOT bundle up someone who has the chills.

– Remove excess clothing or blankets. The room should be comfortable, not too hot or cool. Try one layer of lightweight clothing, and one lightweight blanket for sleep. If the room is hot or stuffy, a fan may help

–  Warm water sponge baths may help. Do NOT use cold water, ice, or alcohol rubs. These cool the skin and often make the situation worse by causing shivering which then raises the body temperature further.

Measure a temperature using a thermometer. Using the palm of your hand is not enough. A child can feel hot on the exterior but that is not always an indication of internal heat. Ear thermometers are great for use with babies and children. They give fast readings with minimal interference which is extremely helpful when a child is in discomfort, wriggling around or asleep.

When to contact your GP

- If you are worried

- Your child is under 12mths

- The fever lasts longer than 48hrs

- The fever is over 105 degrees F

Any fever whatsoever is a serious sign in newborns (up to 6 weeks) and your GP should be contacted immediately.