“Feed a cold, starve a fever.” When we were growing up, it was the go-to prescription when we came down with a virus. Tylenol was typically given at the first sign of a fever and cool baths and wash cloths on the forehead were used to bring our temperature down. Some of these traditions on how to handle fevers have been passed on, but some of them now conflict with modern advice. So what is the proper protocol when it comes to fevers in our children, and are they really the enemy when it comes to viruses?
Typically, a fever is a good thing. Don’t suppress it.
Because of the introduction of anti-fever drugs like Tylenol, parents typically perceive a fever as the enemy of their child’s virus, and something that needs to be fought, when in fact, it’s the opposite. Fevers are the body’s way of actually fighting the virus. And unless they become dangerously high, which is probably higher than you think, at 105 degrees, they should be allowed to run their course. In rare cases, fevers over 103 can trigger febrile seizures in children, which can be scary for parents, but these are typically harmless and short-lived.
According to preventdisease.com a fever serves to protect your body against infection and trauma in three major ways:
1. A fever stimulates your immune system into producing more white blood cells, antibodies, and a protein called interferon, all of which work to protect your body against harmful microorganisms.
2. By raising your body’s temperature a few degrees, a fever makes it harder for invading bacteria and viruses to survive and flourish. The higher your core body temperature is, the harder it is for harmful microorganisms to survive in your body.
3. A fever helps to shuttle iron to your liver so that it is not readily available to fuel the growth of invading bacteria.
Fevers can be uncomfortable for a child, as they are typically accompanied by chills and aches. Thankfully, they also cause fatigue, and the best thing your child can do is rest and stay hydrated.
Try to remember that despite the discomfort, fevers are a good thing.
“Fever is often a good sign of a robust immune system,” said Dr. Kathi Kemper, professor of pediatrics at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. “A fever in and of itself is not dangerous.”
Although fevers in and of themselves are not dangerous, if any of the following symptoms accompany them a trip to the doctor is advised:
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting
- A stiff neck
- A Persistent cough that lasts more than a week
- Unexplained heaviness or weakness in your legs or arms
- Unexplained irritability, confusion, listlessness
- Any other behavior that is out of character for you or your child
Should you really feed a cold and starve a fever?
No! Starving is never a good idea when one is ill. Your body still needs all the nutrients it normally does. Lack of appetite is normal with some viruses and in that case, push soup and liquids, but you should never “fight” a fever by withholding food on purpose.
Always listen to your parental instincts when taking care of your child, but remember that fevers are a good thing. When allowed to run their course they will help your child beat the virus they are fighting more efficiently. A good rule of thumb to remember is to “treat the child, not the thermometer”.
