Patient's question:
Last night at midnight, I touched my son's head and it felt a bit warm. I originally wanted to take his rectal temperature, but he was asleep and it wasn't convenient, so I took his neck temperature, which was 37.5. I thought the neck temperature should be added by 5 points, so it would be 38 degrees. Therefore, I gave my son Motrin. This morning, my son no longer has a fever, but I'm still not entirely at ease because Motrin is only meant to be taken when the fever is above 38.5 degrees. Did I give him the wrong medication? If he took Motrin when his temperature was below 38.5 degrees, what are the adverse consequences? Will it harm my baby's health?What kind of help I need: Is it serious if the temperature is below 38 degrees and Motrin is taken? What are the adverse consequences? Will it harm my baby's health?
Doctor's answer:
First, note that the child's temperature is generally recommended to be suppressed if it is below 38.5°C.At the same time, pay attention to the medication you mentioned, which is ibuprofen. This drug has very few side effects in suppressing temperature. If the child takes it orally and does not experience symptoms such as nausea again, there is no need to worry.
If the child is currently in good spirits and shows no abnormal symptoms, then it is not a problem. However, if the child sweats a lot, it is necessary to wipe the sweat promptly to prevent a drop in temperature.
In the future, when the temperature is below 38.5°C, you can use warm water more frequently to help lower the temperature. Avoid being overly anxious and using medication too early.
I hope this is helpful to you. Wishing you good health!