Fevers

I'm often asked by patients the best way to treat a fever, generally speaking parents are somewhat afraid when their child develops a fever, however a fever is the body doing what it does best 'attempting to heal itself' and like all other acute diseases should be left alone. Acute disease allows the body to build an immune system and help burn out more chronic disease so never be in a hurry to suppress a fever or any acute illness.
Usually a child (or adult) will manage to overcome a fever without any intervention at all but if they do become a bit stuck and need a helping hand there are a few homeopathic remedies listed below that may help, and if you are not sure what to do and you are concerned call your Homeopath or your Doctor.

1. Aconite napellus (Acon.)
For the early stage of fever when the onset is rapid and intense, and the fever is high. The fever may have been preceded by a shock or fright, or exposure to a cold, dry wind. The child will be agitated, restless, and anxious. They are usually sweaty and thirsty for cold drinks. Pupils may be constricted.
2. Belladonna (Bell.)
Sudden, violent fever that may lead to delirium. The child will have a bright red or flushed face – especially the cheeks (the right cheek may be more flushed on the left cheek). While the head it is usually hot, the hands and feet will be cold. Pupils will be dilated with an intense headache that is usually throbbing in nature. The headache will feel better for sitting and worse for lying, or being bumped or jarred. The child will feel more comfortable in a darkened room and may crave lemon drink, lemonade, or cold water. They may also be thirstless and / or especially sweaty. Complaints triggering the fever, such as middle ear infections and tonsillitis will usually occur on the right hand side.
3. Ferrum phosphoricum (Ferr-p.)
Useful for the first stage of an acute illness when inflammation is present but it is too early for clearly defined symptoms. The fever may be high but its onset is not as rapid or as intense as is seen with a Belladonna or Aconite fever. The child’s face is usually flushed and there may be reddened patches on the cheeks. Sometimes there will be paleness of the face. The child well be restless and alert but not anxious as with a Belladonna or Aconite fever. There may be redness of the tonsils or ear but if pus is present, or nasal mucus is thick, Ferr-p will no longer be helpful. The child may refuse meat or milk but be thirsty for water.
4. Pulsatilla pratensis (Puls.)
The Pulsatilla fever can be either high or low, but the child will be clingy and easily upset. They want constant cuddles and affection, climbing onto your lap and snuggling into you if you sit down. They feel worse for warmth and stuffy rooms but feel much better when gently carried in fresh air. They are also thirstless with the fever and have changeable moods.