Question
The baby had a fever of 39 degrees at night, with phlegm in the throat and a runny nose, and the symptoms have persisted for three days. The condition has worsened after taking medication. What treatment advice can experts provide?
Answer
When a child’s body temperature exceeds 39 degrees, appropriate antipyretics can be used under medical guidance to prevent convulsions due to heat, or physical methods of cooling can be employed, such as wiping the armpits, inguinal area, palm of hands, and soles of feet with 75% alcohol or warm water, as these areas have high blood flow. This method also helps in lowering the body temperature effectively. In addition to medication, it is important to reduce clothing when feverish and avoid using methods like sweating to lower body temperature, as excessive evaporation of sweat can make the child feel tired and weak. Maintain good indoor air circulation by regularly opening windows for ventilation; the room temperature should not be too high. Diet should be light and easy to digest, with semi-liquid foods being preferable.