Belladonna as a Remedy for Children's Fever

Introduction

• Belladonna is often prescribed for children.
• There are various reasons why fever may appear, with one peculiar but common reason being a haircut.
• Applicable to childhood diseases that start with a fever.
• Fevers are typically Belladonna-like: red, hot, throbbing fevers affecting the head, eyes, and more.

Characteristics of Fevers Treated by Belladonna

• Similar to scarlet fever: red, hot, throbbing fever primarily affecting the head and eyes.
• Symptoms include dilated pupils, throbbing carotid arteries, hot head but icy cold hands and feet.
• The intense heat can transfer from the feverish head to the hands when touched.
• Fever can lead to monstrous imaginations and hallucinations in children.
  • Child may see terrifying visions instead of their mother.
• Prolonged fever may result in febrile convulsions, requiring immediate action.

Treatment Strategy

• Initial advice: cool down the child by sponging around the neck and wrists to reduce temperature.
• Belladonna is more efficient than physical cooling.
  • Reduces hallucinations and calms the child.
  • Wild eyes and dilations reduce before temperature decreases.
  • Temperature will eventually redistribute and lower; hands and feet will warm up first.
• If symptoms of wild state reappear, administer Belladonna again.
  • Frequent repetitions may be necessary, potentially every five minutes.

Essential in Nursery First-Aid Kits

• Belladonna is crucial for managing severe and immediate fever symptoms in children.
• Recommended to be included in first-aid kits along with commonly used remedies like Arnica.