Selain Kompres Hangat, Begini Cara Menurunkan Demam pada Bayi

Fever in infants is a condition where a baby's body temperature rises above normal, usually more than 37.5°C (99.5°F) when measured with a thermometer. Fever itself is not a disease, but a sign that the baby's body is fighting an infection or another condition that may require medical attention. Therefore, it is important to know how to lower a baby's fever effectively and safely. This is important because it will help reduce discomfort in the baby and provide peace of mind to parents, especially mothers. Check out the complete information by reading the following article!

Fever in Infants, Is a Doctor's Visit Necessary?

Fever is usually the body's response to an infection, such as a virus or bacteria, but it can also be caused by other conditions, such as teething, immunization reactions, or prolonged exposure to heat.

Although a fever often indicates that the baby's body is fighting an infection, this condition can also make the baby feel uncomfortable, fussy, and sometimes lethargic. Fever is not a disease in itself, but a symptom of something happening inside the baby's body.

While a fever in infants can often be managed at home, there are certain situations where it is important to consult a doctor immediately. Here are various urgent conditions that require you to take your little one to the doctor when they have a fever.

1. Infants Under 3 Months Old

If an infant under 3 months old develops a fever of 38°C or higher, you should immediately take them to a doctor or emergency room. At this age, the baby's immune system is still developing, and a fever can be a sign of a serious infection.

2. High Fever

If the baby's body temperature is over 39°C, especially if it does not go down with medication or lasts for more than a day or two. You should not ignore this condition and should immediately seek medical help at the nearest clinic or health center for further treatment.

3. Prolonged Fever

If the fever lasts for more than 3 days without signs of improvement, or if the fever fluctuates abnormally, it may indicate a more serious infection that requires medical attention.

4. Dehydrated Infant

If the baby shows signs of dehydration such as a dry mouth, infrequent urination, crying without tears, or appears very weak and lethargic, contact a doctor immediately.

5. Febrile Seizure

A febrile seizure is a seizure triggered by a high fever. Although febrile seizures are often harmless, it is very important to have the baby checked by a doctor immediately after it occurs.

6. Other Concerning Symptoms Appear

If the baby experiences persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, an unusual rash, difficulty breathing, or appears extremely fussy or unresponsive, you should not wait and should consult a doctor immediately.

7. Fever After Immunization

A mild fever after immunization is common. However, if the fever is very high or the baby seems very uncomfortable after immunization, consult a doctor.

8. Fever Accompanied by Severe Headache or Stiff Neck

This condition can be a sign of meningitis, which is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Read also: Fussy Baby Phase: Causes, Signs & How to Handle It

Natural Ways to Lower a Baby's Fever

Source: freepik/shisuka

Lowering a baby's fever naturally is often the first step taken by parents before giving medication. Some natural methods can help lower the baby's body temperature and make them more comfortable. Below is an explanation of natural ways to lower a baby's fever that you need to know.

1. Warm Compress

Although it may sound counterintuitive, using a warm (not hot) compress can help lower a fever. A warm compress works by dilating blood vessels in the skin, allowing the body to release heat more quickly. Additionally, a warm compress helps reduce the discomfort the baby may be feeling.

You can do this by soaking a clean cloth in warm water (around 30-32°C) and wringing it out so it is not too wet. Place the cloth on the baby's forehead, neck folds, or stomach. Don't forget to replace the compress periodically as the cloth begins to cool down.

2. Warm Bath

A warm bath can help lower a baby's body temperature in the same way as a warm compress. Warm water will help the body release heat through the skin. Conversely, a cold bath is not recommended as it can cause the baby to shiver, which actually increases their body temperature.

You can fill a bathtub with warm water (around 29-32°C) and bathe the baby for 10-15 minutes, or until their body temperature begins to drop. Be sure to always monitor the baby during the bath to keep them safe and comfortable.

3. Wearing Thin, Comfortable Clothing

Dressing the baby in thin, comfortable clothing can help the baby's body release heat more effectively. Thick or layered clothing will actually trap heat inside the body, thereby worsening the fever.

Choose clothing made of light and breathable materials, such as cotton, and avoid wrapping the baby in thick blankets. If the baby feels cold, a light, thin blanket can be used to keep them comfortable.

4. Increase Fluid Intake

Fever can cause the body to lose fluids more quickly, which increases the risk of dehydration. Increasing fluid intake helps keep the body hydrated, supports bodily functions, and aids the body's natural cooling process.

If the baby is still breastfeeding, nurse more often than usual. For babies who have started eating solid foods, offer more water, diluted juice, or electrolyte fluids specifically designed for infants.

If the baby refuses to drink or shows signs of dehydration such as a dry mouth or infrequent urination, consult a doctor immediately.

Using the various natural methods above not only helps lower a fever but also provides comfort and calm for the baby. However, if the baby appears uncomfortable, has had a fever for more than 3 days, or their body temperature does not go down after trying these methods, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Read also: Recognize the Signs of Infant Dehydration & Effective Ways to Prevent It

Fever-Reducing Medication for Infants

Administering fever-reducing medication to infants is a common step taken by many parents when their baby has a fever. Although a fever can often be managed naturally, there are situations where the use of medication is necessary to lower the body temperature and make the baby more comfortable.

Fever-reducing medication is generally given if the baby's body temperature reaches 38.5°C or higher, especially if the baby appears very uncomfortable. In addition to body temperature, the baby's general condition must also be considered. If the baby appears very fussy, has trouble sleeping, or refuses to eat/drink, fever-reducing medication can help alleviate these symptoms.

However, ensure that you always follow a doctor's instructions, especially if the baby has certain medical conditions or is taking other medications. The two types of medicines that can be used to lower a baby's fever are paracetamol and ibuprofen. Here are the explanations.

1. Paracetamol

Paracetamol is the most frequently recommended medication to lower a fever in infants. It is safe for use in babies over 2 months old, with a dosage appropriate to the baby's weight and age. This medicine is generally given every 4-6 hours, but should not exceed the recommended maximum daily dose.

2. Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is another fever-reducing medication that can be used for babies over 6 months old. In addition to lowering a fever, ibuprofen also has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce pain and swelling.

The dosage is given every 6-8 hours, while paying attention to the maximum daily allowance. Ibuprofen is not recommended for babies who are dehydrated or have kidney problems.

Read also: Here Are the Differences Between Breastfed and Formula-Fed Babies, Important!

Myths About Lowering a Baby's Fever

Source: freepik

Myths about how to lower a baby's fever have existed for years, especially among communities that still practice traditional methods. While well-intentioned, some of these methods are actually ineffective and can even harm the baby. The following is an explanation of some popular myths and the reasons why these methods are not recommended.

1. "Kerokan" (Skin Scraping)

Kerokan, which involves rubbing the skin with a coin or other hard object, is believed to release "wind" from the body and lower a fever. In reality, kerokan has no scientific basis for lowering a fever. On an infant, their highly sensitive skin can become irritated, injured, or even infected as a result of kerokan.

Additionally, this action can cause unnecessary pain and discomfort to the baby.

2. Onion on the Feet

Placing onion slices on the soles of a baby's feet is also believed to absorb heat and lower a fever. In fact, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that onions can lower a fever. A baby's delicate skin can also become irritated if exposed to onions, as they contain sulfur compounds and other irritants.

3. Using Alcohol to Compress or Rub the Body

Myths about infant fever also lead many people to rub a baby's body with alcohol or use alcohol compresses because they believe it can lower body temperature quickly.

In reality, the fact is that alcohol can be easily absorbed through a baby's skin, which can lead to alcohol poisoning, especially in very young infants.

Using alcohol can also cause the skin to cool too quickly, which can trigger shivering and increase the baby's body temperature.

4. Cold or Ice Bath

Many people still think that bathing a baby in cold or icy water can drastically lower body temperature. In reality, a cold or ice bath can actually make the baby shiver, causing their body temperature to rise further.

Furthermore, a cold bath can make the baby feel extremely uncomfortable and add stress to their body, which is already weakened by the fever.

5. Using Strong Balms or Rubbing Oils

Mengoleskan balsam atau minyak gosok yang mengandung bahan-bahan seperti mentol, kapur barus, atau minyak kayu putih pada dada atau punggung bayi dipercaya dapat menurunkan demam dan meredakan gejala pilek.

Namun, Bunda perlu tahu bahwa kulit bayi yang sensitif dapat bereaksi buruk terhadap bahan-bahan ini, sehingga menyebabkan iritasi, ruam, atau reaksi alergi. Balsam yang kuat juga dapat mengiritasi saluran napas bayi, terutama jika bayi menghirup uapnya.

Baca juga: Penting! Ini 8 Cara Aman Atasi Alergi Makanan pada Bayi

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Referensi:

1. Natalie Silver. How to Safely Bring Down a Fever in a Baby. https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/how-to-bring-down-baby-fever
2. Marygrace Taylor. What to Do if Your Baby or Toddler Has a Fever. https://www.whattoexpect.com/childrens-health-and-safety/fever-in-children.aspx