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question

How might wet socks help treat a fever?

Dr. Michael Roizen, MD
Dr. Michael Roizen, MD
Internal Medicine
answer
The theory behind the Wet Socks Treatment is that if you put wet socks on kids with fevers, their bodies will work to raise their internal heat to warm their feet and thus allow their immune system to kick in. You can also put a cool, wet towel on large surface areas of the body, like the belly. But do not do supercold temps: That causes the baby to shiver and raise the temperature more than is helpful to fight infection, as shivering generates unneeded heat.
YOU: Raising Your Child: The Owner's Manual from First Breath to First Grade

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YOU: Raising Your Child: The Owner's Manual from First Breath to First Grade

There’s little doubt that parenting can be one of the most rewarding and satisfying experiences you’ll ever have. But it can be plenty tough, too: Around the clock, you’re working to keep your...

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