It's as sure a thing as dirty diapers and crying: your baby is going to get sick. There are few things that cause parents more concern as a baby with a temperature, even though in the vast majority of cases, the child's illness isn't severe and the temperature is actually helping the baby get better.

If an adult comes down with a fever of 100 degrees, it's cause for alarm. But babies can register that temperature and not even be sick! Nevertheless, you will soon find yourself face to face with a baby who is under the weather, so here are some thoughts to help.

First of all, your pediatrician is your first line of defense. A baby doctor has probably encountered your problem before. Your doctor can also answer questions about medicine that's prescribed - how often it should be given, whether it must be refrigerated, what is the corRECT dose. Some medicines are to be taken on an empty stomach while others must be taken during or immediately after a meal. Take notes on your doctor's instructions in case you're confused after visiting the pharmacy.

Second, don't assume that over the counter medicines should be treated any less seriously than prescription medicines. Giving the wrong kind or the wrong dose can make baby sicker.

Here are some rules that will help your baby's medicines have the intended effect:

• Read the label carefully so that you're giving the right dose. It's easy to confuse "teaspoon" with "tablespoon". Chances are, the smaller "teaspoon" is all you'll your baby will be taking. Giving your baby a larger dose in hopes of getting better sooner…will NOT work.



• Did your doctor prescribe an antibiotic? It will be very important to keep giving the medicine to your baby until the entire supply is gone - even if your child is feeling better. Also, many antibiotics have to be refrigerated.



• The dosage may well be based on your child's weight - not age - so make sure you know an accurate reading after each doctor's visit.



• How you administer the medicine is important. An eyedropper works well for infants. A bit later on, a small measuring spoon will work. You should never give chewable medicines to a child under the age of three because the pills may pose a choking hazard.



• Never give your child prescription medicine that was intended for someone else…or medicine that has reached its expiration date. Once a medicine is past its expire date, throw it out. Keeping all medicine in its original packaging will help you determine that.



• Don't give aspirin to a child. Aspirin can lead to a rare - though fatal illness - called Reye's syndrome.

Your baby is counting on you to take the time and pay the attention to make sure the medicines you're giving are the right medicines, given in the right dosage.

All facts, data, and useful tips provided are for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for medical advice.

 

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