Helping Your Child Through The Flu
If you think your child may have the flu, you want to give them a chance to get over it on their own as long as there are no other underlying issues that increase their chances of them experiencing complications. The information below will help you get your child through the flu in the most comfortable and healthiest way possible.
Controlling their fever
It's normal for your child to have a fever when they have the flu. A low grade fever is nothing to worry about and will actually help to fight off the illness a little faster. A low grade fever is considered to be one that's below 99.5 orally.
If your child's fever gets above 99.5 orally, then you can give them an over-the-counter fever reducer. Always make sure you give them the correct amount for their age and weight. If their age and weight isn't listed on the package then call the doctor's office to find out the correct dosage to give them.
Along with a fever reducer, you can also take other steps to bring down their fever. You can take cool (not cold) rags and place them behind their neck and under their arm pits. When your child has a fever it is extremely important for you to make sure they stay hydrated, especially if they are also vomiting or have diarrhea.
Keeping them hydrated and well-nourished
Along with making sure your child is drinking plenty of water, you should also be giving them something with extra electrolytes. If they are having a hard time keeping anything down, only have them take one sip every few minutes. Feed your child foods that will help to fend off the loose stool like rice, bananas, applesauce and toast.
You can make a Popsicle for your child that will also help to cool them down and keep them hydrated. To do this, you want to take a drink with electrolytes and put it into an ice cube tray. Take a Popsicle stick and place it into the liquid. Stick the tray into the freezer until it is frozen. Giving your child the cold Popsicle will help them to get fluids slower and help to lower their temperature.
If you have a difficult time controlling your child's fever, if they become lethargic, if they are not drinking water, or you are concerned that they aren't getting better then you should take them in to see their pediatrician as soon as possible. To make sure you know all the signs and symptoms, call the doctor and continue reading more about at-home remedies.
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