Is rectal instillation a reliable method for reducing fever in children?

Enema for Fever Reduction in Children Is Unreliable

Enema is not a routine route of drug administration, and pediatric departments in reputable hospitals do not opt for enemas as a method for fever reduction in children. The potential hazards of using enemas for fever reduction in children include intestinal damage, high medication risks, allergies, and reduced immunity, detailed as follows:

1. Intestinal Damage: The intestinal walls of infants are delicate, and inserting tubes to administer medication or fluids can easily harm the intestines and mucosa, potentially leading to intestinal bleeding or even perforation. Frequent enemas may also cause relaxation of the anal sphincter muscles in babies.

2. High Medication Risks: Enema-based fever-reducing medications are complex, and there are no standardized usage guidelines. When drugs enter the bloodstream through the intestines, overdose or incorrect administration can easily damage the liver and kidneys of babies, with severe cases leading to liver or kidney failure.

3. Allergies: Medications administered through the intestines without prior skin testing can directly trigger allergic reactions, potentially causing anaphylactic shock and posing a life-threatening risk to babies.

4. Reduced Immunity: Frequent use of enemas can alter the normal intestinal flora, thereby reducing the baby's immunity.

In general, for fevers below 38.5°C in children, physical cooling methods can be chosen. For temperatures above 38.5°C, oral ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be administered. In cases where administering oral medication is difficult or the baby vomits, fever-reducing suppositories can be used under medical supervision. If high fever persists, immediate medical attention is required.