Help little ones with pain and fever relief this winter

Winter is a season notorious for bringing along a host of ailments, including pain and fever, especially among children.

As a parent, it is essential to be prepared and equipped to provide your little ones with relief when they need it the most.

Read on for tips to help your children with pain and fever relief this winter, ensuring their well-being and your peace of mind.

Keep a supply of pain relievers on hand

Paracetamol is safe for treating pain and a high temperature in babies and children. When it comes to pain and fever relief for children, Panado® Paediatric Syrup sachets are a reliable and convenient option.

These sachets contain paracetamol as the active ingredient, which is known to be safe for use in infants and children.

One of the advantages of Panado® Paediatric Syrup sachets is their portability. You can easily carry them with you wherever you go, ensuring that you have pain and fever relief readily available for your child when needed.

When administering the syrup, it is essential to use a medicine measure or a syringe and not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage details can be found at the Panado® website’s dosage calculator, which provides accurate calculations based on your child’s age and weight.

Dress your child in comfortable layers

When your child is experiencing a fever, it’s crucial to keep them comfortable.

Dressing them in comfortable layers and lightweight fabrics allows you to adjust their clothing to maintain a comfortable body temperature.

Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton and avoid heavy blankets or clothing that could cause overheating.

By dressing your child in comfortable layers, you can easily add or remove clothing as needed to regulate their body temperature. This ensures that they stay comfortable and avoid unnecessary discomfort caused by overheating or feeling too cold.

Encourage rest and hydration

Rest and hydration are fundamental when it comes to managing pain and fever in children.

Encourage your child to get plenty of rest and provide them with ample fluids to keep them hydrated. Offering water or diluted fruit juice can help replenish fluids and prevent dehydration.

Adequate rest and hydration are essential for your child’s overall well-being and can aid in their recovery process.

Ensuring that your child gets enough rest allows their body to focus on fighting off infections and recovering from illness. Hydration helps maintain body temperature and supports overall physiological functions.

Did you know?

According to the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), respiratory illnesses, including flu and common colds, are among the most prevalent illnesses in South Africa, especially during the winter months.

Signs and symptoms of pain and fever in babies, toddlers, and young children

Recognising the signs and symptoms of pain and fever in babies, toddlers, and young children is crucial for timely intervention and providing them with the necessary care.

Here are some common indicators to watch out for:

Babies (0-12 months)

• Irritability: Babies may become fussier and more irritable than usual when they are experiencing pain or discomfort.
• Crying: Persistent crying that cannot be easily soothed, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, may indicate pain.
• Changes in feeding patterns: Babies may show a decreased appetite or difficulty feeding when they are unwell.
• Changes in sleep patterns: Pain and fever can disrupt a baby’s sleep, causing them to sleep more or experience difficulty sleeping.
• Changes in behaviour: Babies may display unusual behaviours, such as pulling at their ears or rubbing specific body parts, to indicate discomfort.

Toddlers (1-3 years)

• Complaints of pain: Toddlers who can communicate verbally may express pain or discomfort in specific areas, such as the head, stomach, or throat.
• Fever: Look out for signs of fever, including flushed skin, warmth to the touch, sweating, and increased body temperature.
• Loss of appetite: Similar to babies, toddlers may experience a reduced appetite or show aversion to eating due to pain or discomfort.
• Restlessness and irritability: Toddlers may exhibit restlessness, irritability, and difficulty settling down due to pain or fever.
• Changes in activity level: A sudden decrease in activity or reluctance to engage in usual play may indicate pain or illness.

 Young Children (4-6 years)

•  Verbal complaints: Children in this age group can communicate their pain or discomfort more effectively, describing the location and intensity of the pain.
• High temperature: Fever is a common symptom of illness and may be accompanied by other signs such as chills and sweating.
• Headache or body aches: Young children may complain of headaches or body aches when they are experiencing pain or fever.
• Fatigue and decreased energy: Illness and discomfort can cause young children to feel tired, lethargic, and less enthusiastic about their usual activities.
• Changes in mood and behaviour: Children may exhibit mood swings, irritability, or become more withdrawn when they are unwell.

Remember that every child is unique, and their response to pain and fever may vary. It is important to be attentive to any changes in your child’s behaviour, appearance, or overall well-being.

How to measure your baby’s temperature

Measuring your baby’s temperature accurately is essential for assessing their health and determining if they have a fever. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to measure your baby’s temperature:

1. Choose a thermometer: Select a reliable and age-appropriate thermometer. Options include digital thermometers, ear thermometers, temporal artery thermometers, or pacifier thermometers.
2. Prepare your baby: Ensure your baby is calm and comfortable before attempting to take their temperature. A calm and relaxed state can help provide a more accurate reading.
3. Follow the thermometer instructions: Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to understand how to use the thermometer correctly. Different thermometers may have specific guidelines for insertion or placement.
4. Oral or rectal measurement: For babies under three months old, rectal temperature measurement is recommended as it provides the most accurate reading. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip of the thermometer and gently insert it into your baby’s rectum about half an inch. Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps or until the required time specified by the manufacturer.
5. Underarm or forehead measurement: For older babies, you can use underarm (axillary) or forehead (temporal artery) temperature measurements as alternatives. Follow the instructions provided with the thermometer to ensure accurate readings.
6. Record the temperature: Take note of the temperature reading. Maintain a record of the time and the measurement for future reference and to share with your healthcare provider if necessary.
7. Clean and store the thermometer: After each use, clean the thermometer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Store it safely to ensure its hygiene and functionality for future use.

Remember, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the specific instructions for the thermometer you are using, as different thermometers may have slight variations in usage.