FEVER
Fever in itself is not so dangerous. In fact, pediatricians believe that a little fever (up to 101 degree F) is a good thing and means that the baby’s body is fighting the bug that has invaded it. However, if the fever persists or exceeds 103 degrees F or fluctuates, you need to take your baby to the pediatrician. Remember that a fever of 104 degrees F or more needs immediate and quick attention.

It is important to observe is your baby’s behavior and alertness. If he appears to be comfortable and alert, you need not worry too much. However, if the baby becomes lethargic, sleepy, cranky or irritable and exhibits a loss of appetite, you need to pay closer attention. Fever in this case would be accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, loose motions, runny nose, cough, needs immediate attention.

You could comfort the baby by placing cold packs on his forehead and keep him well hydrated. Do not bundle him in too many clothes as that can cause overheating of the body and can aggravate the fever.

COLD AND COUGH
Colds and stuffy noses are very common in little children and can be triggered by a sudden change of season, exposure to hot and cold, allergies or even exposure to environmental pollution or cigarette smoke. If the condition is accompanied by difficulty in breathing and congestion, then the child could be suffering from a respiratory tract infection. Coughs, if occasional and generally dry, are of no major concern but if the cough sounds like a very hoarse bark, then your baby needs immediate attention.

For blocked nose, normal saline water drops are perfectly safe to use. If the baby is having trouble sleeping, try raising his head a bit by placing a pillow under his head or making him sleep in a cropped up position in your arms.

When you know that the baby needs assistance of the pediatrician, make sure to be clear and precise with the symptoms that you bring to his notice as his diagnosis would be based on what you tell him. As it is said that ‘Precaution is better than cure.’ So even before your baby falls ill, keep a basic first aid kit handy. This kit should include a thermometer, cotton buds or swabs, an antibiotic ointment as prescribed by your pediatrician for minor cuts, medicines for vomiting, loose motions, fever, rash and colic (again as prescribed by the pediatrician), a measuring cup or dropper calibrated in millimeters to administer medication, saline drops, a steamer and a list
containing phone numbers of the pediatrician and local chemist.

Stay calm, confident and use a soothing and reassuring tone when you handle your child. Do not forget to rest yourself as and when you get the chance so that you have the energy to do your best in your baby’s recovery. Do not administer any medication that has not being prescribed by your pediatrician. Make sure you have the same medicine with the exact concentration as prescribed. Check the expiry date before you purchase the medicine.