[Medical Q&A] When children have a fever, which is more reliable, physical cooling or drug cooling?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Niu Chao, deputy chief physician, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University

Physical cooling mainly uses external means to help the body dissipate heat, thereby lowering body temperature. Common methods include warm water baths, warm water baths, fever patches, ice compresses, etc. These methods are suitable for children whose body temperature does not exceed 38.5℃ and whose mental state is still good. The advantage of physical cooling is that it does not require drug intervention, is relatively mild, and can reduce possible adverse reactions caused by drugs. At the same time, it can also help parents take timely measures to relieve their children's discomfort. Remember, please avoid using alcohol baths to physically cool down children with fever to avoid alcohol poisoning or alcohol allergy.

When a child's body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, or physical cooling is ineffective, medication should be considered for cooling. Commonly used children's antipyretics include ibuprofen and acetaminophen. These drugs have been clinically proven to be safe and can effectively lower body temperature and relieve children's discomfort. However, special attention should be paid when using medication to reduce fever. The dosage must be strictly controlled according to the child's age and weight to avoid overdose or underdose. The use intervals and maximum doses of different antipyretics are regulated and cannot be changed at will. At the same time, pay attention to observe the child's reaction after taking the medicine, such as whether allergies, nausea, vomiting and other adverse reactions occur.

Physical cooling and drug cooling each have their own advantages and disadvantages, and there is no absolute one that is more reliable. When a child has a fever, parents should flexibly choose the appropriate cooling method based on the child's specific situation. If you are not sure about the child's condition, you must consult a doctor in time and treat it under the doctor's guidance to ensure that the child can recover as soon as possible.