What are the most effective home remedies for fever. How can you reduce fever symptoms naturally at home. Which treatments provide fast relief from fever discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for a fever.

Understanding Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Body’s Response

Fever is a common physiological response that occurs when the body’s temperature rises above its normal range. But what exactly constitutes a fever? For adults, a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) is generally considered feverish, although normal body temperature can vary slightly from person to person, typically hovering around 98.6°F (37°C).

Why does fever occur? Fever is usually a sign that your body is fighting an infection, whether bacterial or viral. As your immune system kicks into high gear, your body temperature increases. This elevated temperature creates an environment where many bacteria and viruses struggle to survive, effectively aiding your body’s defense mechanisms.

It’s crucial to understand that fever itself is not a disease or condition, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue. While fever can be uncomfortable, it’s often a sign that your body is doing its job to combat an infection.

Hydration: The Cornerstone of Fever Management

When it comes to managing fever, proper hydration stands at the forefront of effective home remedies. Why is staying hydrated so crucial during a fever?

• Prevents dehydration caused by increased body temperature
• Helps regulate body temperature
• Soothes associated symptoms like sore throat
• Supports overall bodily functions

Which fluids are most beneficial during a fever? Opt for:

• Water: The most essential and readily available option
• Fruit juices: Provide hydration and essential vitamins
• Herbal teas: Offer hydration and potential soothing properties
• Sports drinks: Replenish electrolytes lost through sweating

It’s important to note that while hydration is crucial, it may not significantly lower your fever on its own. However, it plays a vital role in managing symptoms and supporting your body’s natural healing processes.

The Power of Rest: Allowing Your Body to Heal

Rest is a often underestimated yet powerful tool in fever management. How does rest contribute to fever recovery?

• Conserves energy for the immune system to fight infection
• Reduces physical stress on the body
• Promotes faster healing and recovery
• Helps alleviate associated symptoms like fatigue and body aches

While it’s important to rest when you have a fever, there’s no need to force sleep or inactivity once you start feeling better. Listen to your body and gradually resume normal activities as your energy levels improve.

Over-the-Counter Medications: Quick Relief for Fever Symptoms

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide rapid relief from fever symptoms. Which OTC medications are most effective for fever?

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (Aleve)
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Aspirin (not recommended for children under 18)

These medications not only help reduce fever but can also alleviate associated symptoms like body aches and sore throat. However, it’s crucial to follow dosage instructions carefully and be aware of potential side effects.

How long does it take for OTC fever reducers to work? Typically, you can expect these medications to start taking effect within 30 to 45 minutes after ingestion. Keep in mind that while they can lower your temperature, they may not bring it down to your normal baseline, and their effects are often temporary.

Precautions When Using OTC Fever Medications

• Always take with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage in a 24-hour period
• Avoid giving these medications to children under six without medical guidance
• Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen

Cool Compresses and Lukewarm Baths: Gentle Temperature Reduction Techniques

External cooling methods can provide comfort and help manage fever symptoms. How can you effectively use cool compresses and lukewarm baths?

Cool compresses:

• Apply a cool, damp cloth to the forehead and wrists
• Replace the cloth as it warms up
• Can provide immediate relief and comfort

Lukewarm baths:

• Use water that feels comfortable, not cold
• Soak for 10-15 minutes
• Can help reduce body temperature and relax muscles

It’s important to avoid using cold water or ice baths, as these can cause shivering, which can actually increase body temperature. The goal is to gently cool the body, not to induce a sudden temperature drop.

Nutritional Support: Eating and Drinking for Recovery

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting your body’s immune response during a fever. What should you eat and drink when you have a fever?

Bone Broth and Clear Soups

Bone broth and clear soups offer multiple benefits:

• Provide hydration
• Offer easy-to-digest nutrients
• Can soothe a sore throat
• May help reduce inflammation

Small, Light Meals

Why opt for smaller, lighter meals during a fever?

• Easier on the digestive system, which may be weakened
• Helps maintain energy levels without overtaxing the body
• Allows for more frequent nutrient intake throughout the day

Remember, the old adage “feed a cold, starve a fever” is not based on scientific evidence. It’s important to eat when you’re hungry, even if you have a fever, to provide your body with the energy and nutrients it needs to fight the infection.

Environmental Factors: Creating a Comfortable Healing Space

Your environment can significantly impact your comfort and recovery when you have a fever. How can you optimize your surroundings?

Humidifiers: Adding Moisture to the Air

While a humidifier won’t directly lower your body temperature, it can:

• Increase air moisture, soothing respiratory symptoms
• Help alleviate dry cough and nasal congestion
• Create a more comfortable breathing environment

Clothing and Bedding Choices

Choosing the right clothing and bedding can help manage fever symptoms:

• Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing
• Use light blankets or sheets
• Change clothes if they become damp with sweat

These choices help prevent overheating while still allowing your body to regulate its temperature effectively.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Recognizing Serious Symptoms

While most fevers can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare provider?

• Fever persists for more than three days
• Temperature exceeds 103°F (39.4°C)
• Severe headache or neck stiffness
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain
• Seizures or convulsions

For infants and young children, be particularly vigilant. Seek medical care if:

• A baby under 3 months has any fever
• A child’s fever is accompanied by lethargy or irritability
• There are signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, decreased urination)

Remember, these home remedies are meant to provide comfort and support your body’s natural healing processes. If you’re unsure about your symptoms or if they worsen, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and ensure you’re on the right track to recovery.

11 Home Remedies for Fever That Actually Work

A fever occurs when your body temperature is higher than normal.

Though body temperatures can vary from person to person, normal body temperature is usually around 98.6°F (37°C). In adults, a fever is recognized when body temperature is above 100.4°F.

While there can be variations in body temperature depending on ambient environment, activity, hormone levels, and other factors, a true fever is above 100.4°F.

It is also important that once a fever is established, you keep your distance from others, as you could be contagious. 

In most cases, a fever is a sign of an infection (bacterial or viral). As your body fights the infection, your body temperature rises.

A fever works to activate your body’s immune system and most bacteria and viruses have a harder time surviving in your body when you have a fever. 

It’s important to note that having a fever is not a disease or condition, but typically a symptom. Still, having one can be uncomfortable.

Thankfully, there are several home remedies that can work to lower your fever and soothe your discomfort. 

Drink Plenty of Fluids

Drinking plenty of fluids is important when you have a fever, as it can help to prevent dehydration and keep your body cool.

If you’re also experiencing a sore throat as a result of an underlying infection, drinking cool fluids can also help to soothe your sore throat.

Types of fluids that can help to soothe a fever include:

• Water
• Juice
• Decaffeinated or non-caffeinated tea
• Sports drinks

It’s important to avoid drinking caffeinated drinks, like coffees, teas, and some types of sodas, as these can also contribute to dehydration.

Keep in mind that in most cases, drinking fluids will not significantly lower your fever.

However, it will help to soothe your symptoms and prevent dehydration.

See a doctor online.

Start my visit

Suck on Ice

Sucking on ice cubes or ice pops can also help to soothe a sore throat and prevent dehydration.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that sucking on ice or drinking ice cold water can temporarily lower oral temperature readings.

With that in mind, it’s important to wait between 15 minutes and 30 minutes (depending on your age) after sucking on ice or drinking ice water before measuring your oral temperature to ensure an accurate reading. 

Rest

Fighting an infection can make you feel tired and achy.

Giving yourself as much rest as needed can help your body to fight the underlying infection. However, there’s no need to force rest or sleep once you start to feel better.

Take OTC Medication

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and aspirin, are the fastest way to significantly lower a fever.

These medications should be taken with food. Your provider may recommend taking one of these medications if you or your child have a particularly high fever.

These medications may also help to relieve body aches, sore throat, and other symptoms you may experience as a result of an underlying infection.  

Keep in mind that it may take between 30 and 45 minutes for the medication to start working and it’s important not to exceed the recommended dosage in a 24 hour period (these medications are also not recommended for children under the age of six).

Additionally, though OTC medications can help to lower your fever, it may not bring your fever down to your normal temperature, and the effect may only be temporary. 

Apply a Cool Compress

Applying a cool compress to your forehead and wrists can help to soothe and bring down a fever.

Take a Lukewarm Bath

Taking a lukewarm (not cool or cold) bath can also help to reduce a fever and relax the muscles in your body.

Use a Humidifier

Though using a humidifier will not lower your body temperature, it will increase moisture in the air which can soothe other cold and flu symptoms, such as runny nose, nasal congestion, and dry cough.

Drink Bone Broth

Drinking clear broths and soups can help to keep your body hydrated.

If your appetite has decreased as a result of the infection, drinking broths and soups can also help to deliver important nutrients that will help to keep your body strong as you fight an infection. 

Eat Small Meals

Many people have heard the adage “feed a cold, starve a fever,” but in reality it’s important to eat when you’re hungry, even if you have a fever.

Many people may have reduced appetites when they have a fever, which is why soups and smaller meals can help to ensure they’re still getting the proper nutrients they need.

Eating smaller, lighter meals can also help to avoid overwhelming the digestive system, which can become temporarily weaker as a result of certain infections. 

Wear Lightweight Clothing

Wearing lightweight clothing and using lightweight blankets while sleeping or resting can help to keep your body temperature down.

This is especially important if you’re also experiencing chills, which can make some people want to wear heavier clothes or blankets.

Unfortunately, this can keep your fever from coming down or make it go higher.   

Try Herbal Remedies

Some herbal remedies, such as moringa and kudzu root, have been found to reduce fever in animals (rabbits and rats respectively).

However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these herbal remedies at reducing fever in humans.

Before trying any herbal remedies to treat your fever, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider first, as there may be some risks and contraindications. 

See a doctor online.

Start my visit

When To See a Healthcare Professional

Most fevers can be treated at home. But if you’re experiencing a fever of 103°F or higher, reach out to your healthcare provider or seek emergency care. 

Additional symptoms that warrant more immediate medical attention are:

• A fever that does not improve after three days of rest and home care
• Severe headache
• Severe throat swelling
• Unusual skin rash
• Sensitivity to bright light
• Stiff neck (or pain when you bend your head forward)
• Mental confusion
• Persistent vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Abdominal pain
• Pain when urinating
• Extreme fatigue
• Extreme irritability
• Muscle weakness
• Sensory changes
• Seizure

Get Care Now

Did you know you can access online urgent care with K Health?

Check your symptoms, explore conditions and treatments, and if needed, text with a healthcare provider in minutes.  

K Health’s AI-powered app is HIPAA compliant and is based on 20 years of clinical data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to get rid of a fever?

Drinking plenty of fluids and getting adequate rest are important ways to soothe and treat a fever. For a mild fever, you can also apply a cool compress to your forehead and wrists to lower your body temperature. Taking a lukewarm bath can also help to lower your fever and soothe your symptoms. If you’re experiencing a high fever and/or body aches and additional symptoms that cause pain, taking an over-the-counter (OTC) medication can help. These medications, including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and aspirin, can help to lower your fever within 30-40 minutes.

How do you break a fever naturally?

Fevers are usually a sign that your body is fighting an infection. In most cases, a fever will break naturally within a few days. In the meantime, there are many things you can do to help soothe your fever and related symptoms, including drinking plenty of fluids, getting lots of rest, applying cool compresses to your skin, and wearing lightweight clothing.

How do you cure a fever in 5 minutes?

Unfortunately, there is no way to reduce a fever in just 5 minutes. It’s important to note that a fever is not a disease or condition. In most cases, a fever is a sign that your body is fighting an infection. Most fevers resolve on their own within a few days. But if you’re experiencing a high fever and/or additional bothersome symptoms (such as body aches or a sore throat), over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and aspirin, are usually the fastest way to lower your fever. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these medications aren’t right for everyone and they may not bring your temperature down to its normal range or baseline.

K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions,
and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

• Antipyretic activity of hydro-alcoholic extracts of Moringa oleifera in rabbits. (2014).
  https://pubmed.ncbi. nlm.nih.gov/25015462/

• Fever. (2016).
  https://medlineplus.gov/fever.html

• How to treat the common cold at home. (2021).
  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000466.htm

• Patient information: Fever in children (Beyond the Basics). (2015).
  https://projects.ncsu.edu/project/evoresources/Evolutionary%20medicine/new%20adaptation/Fever%20in%20children.html

• Puerarin exerts antipyretic effect on lipopolysaccharide-induced fever in rats involving inhibition of pyrogen production from macrophages. (2012).
  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874112001237

• Temperature lowering after iced water. Enhanced effects in the elderly. (1986).
  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3722670/

• Treat Fever. (2009).
  https://www.cdc.gov/h2n1flu/treatfever.htm

• When your baby or infant has a fever. (2021).
  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000319.htm

9 Home Remedies for Fever

Jump to:

• How to break a fever
• What is a fever, again?
• How to tell if you have a fever
• How long does a fever usually last?
• When should you see a doctor about your fever?

It can be jarring to have a fever. You’re sweaty and uncomfortable, and likely dehydrated, so it only makes sense to find yourself searching online for tips on how to break a fever fast. But first, it can be helpful to know what’s causing you to feel feverish in the first place in order to determine the best course of treatment.

It’s important to point out that a fever is a symptom that something is going on with your body—you don’t just get a fever out of nowhere. Because of this, treating the underlying condition may help get rid of your fever, says Hannah Goldberg, M.D., a primary care physician with Mercy Medical Center. Still, there are some things you can do in the meantime to help make yourself feel better and even break that fever.

Whether you are dealing with the flu, a cold, pneumonia, or inflammatory condition, read on to find out the fever home remedies that can help you feel better while your body tries to find its balance.

How to break a fever

Towfiqu Photography//Getty Images

1.

First, wait it out.

If you do have a fever, remember this: Fever itself is not an illness—it’s a symptom of one. So, in essence, your body’s natural defenses can actually shorten an illness with its quick response and increase the power of antibiotics. These natural processes should be weighed against the discomfort involved in not medicating a slight fever and letting it run its course, says Stephen N. Rosenberg, M.D., author of The Johnson & Johnson First-Aid Book.

2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

When you’re hot, your body sweats to cool you down. But if you lose too much water—as you might with a high fever—your body turns off its sweat ducts to prevent further water loss, making it more difficult for you to cope with your fever. The moral of this story: Fill up your water bottle and drink up. In addition to plain water, experts favor the following:

Watered-down juice: Straight juice, no matter how nutritious, is too concentrated to drink in any quantity when you have a fever and may cause diarrhea. Always dilute 100 percent fruit or vegetable juice with 1 part juice to 1 part water to make it easier for your body to absorb.

Good Nature Organic Linden Blossom Tea

Good Nature Organic Linden Blossom Tea

Now 36% Off

$6 at Amazon

Linden tea: Although any tea will provide needed fluid, several are particularly suited for fever, says Gale Maleskey, MS.., R.D. One combination she likes is thyme (antibacterial), linden flowers (promotes sweating), and chamomile flowers (reduces inflammation). Steep 1 teaspoon of the mixture in 1 cup of freshly boiled water for 5 minutes. Strain and drink warm several times a day. Linden tea by itself is also good, she says, and can induce sweating to break a fever. Use 1 tablespoon of the flowers in 1 cup of freshly boiled water for 5 minutes. Strain and drink hot often.

Willow bark tea: This bark is rich in salicylates (aspirin-related compounds) and is considered “nature’s fever medication,” Maleskey says. Brew into a tea and drink in small doses.

3. Opt for ice if you feel nauseous.

If you’re too nauseated to drink, you can suck on ice. For more variety, you can freeze diluted fruit juice in an ice-cube tray for a fruity and delicious twist.

4. Cool down with wet compresses.

Wet compresses help reduce your body’s temperature output. Ironically, hot, moist compresses can do the job as well. If you start to feel uncomfortably hot, remove those compresses and apply cool ones to the forehead, wrists, and calves. Keep the rest of the body covered. If the fever rises above 103°F, don’t use hot compresses at all. Instead, apply cool ones to prevent the fever from getting any higher. Change them as they warm to body temperature and continue until the fever drops.

5. Try sponging to cool down.

Evaporation also has a cooling effect on body temperature. Try dabbing cool tap water onto the skin to help dissipate excess heat, says Mary Ann Pane, R.N., a nurse clinician in Philadelphia. Although you can sponge the whole body, she says, pay particular attention to spots where heat is generally greatest, such as the armpits and groin area. Wring out a sponge and wipe one section at a time, keeping the rest of the body covered. Body heat will evaporate the moisture and cool the skin.

6. Pop an OTC pain reliever.

Advil Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer Coated Tablets

Advil Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer Coated Tablets

$11 at Amazon

If you’re very uncomfortable, take an over-the-counter pain reliever. For adults, aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can be taken according to package directions. The advantage of acetaminophen and ibuprofen over aspirin is that fewer people experience side effects.

So which one should you take? All are effective, but some work better for particular ailments. For example, aspirin and ibuprofen are common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), so they’re effective at reducing muscle pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen is recommended if you have gastrointestinal sensitivity or are allergic to aspirin. It doesn’t work as well as NSAIDs for inflammation and muscle aches; however, it’s a safer drug to use and has minimal side effects, as long as it’s taken in the proper dosage.

7. Dress the part.

Use common sense as far as clothing and blankets go, says Pane. If you’re very hot, take off extra covers and clothes so that body heat can dissipate into the air. But if you have the chills, bundle up until you’re just comfortable.

8. Take your time with eating.

Don’t fret over whether you should feed a fever or starve one—just drown it. “Most people don’t want to eat when they have a fever, so the important thing is fluids,” Maleskey says. Once your appetite starts to return, eat what appeals to you. Toast, scrambled eggs, chicken soup, and vanilla pudding all go down easy as part of your recuperation. (For more inspiration, here are the best foods to eat when you are sick.)

9. Get some rest.

Try to kick back and relax when you have a fever. “Fevers are usually associated with increased metabolism in the body meaning the body is on overdrive and needs more oxygen and fluids,” Dr. Mao explains. “Being active also increases the body’s metabolic demands, so being very active while running a fever can put extra strain on the body while it’s already under stress.” Basically, lying in bed or just doing your best to take it easy will allow your body to do what it needs to do.

What is a fever, again?

Normal body temperature can range between 97 degrees Fahrenheit (36.1 C) and 99 degrees Fahrenheit (37. 2 C), per Mayo Clinic. In general, doctors consider you to have a fever if your temperature is 100.4 degrees or higher, says Christopher Palazzo, M.D., a family medicine practitioner at Spectrum Health. Sure, some people “run hot” or “run cold,” but that’s the baseline temperature that doctors go by.

“A fever is part of your body’s immune response to infection, most commonly by virus or bacteria known as pathogens,” Dr. Palazzo says. “Fevers help the body make it difficult for invading pathogens to replicate as well as activate specific parts of our immune system that help to fight off infection.” Basically, having a fever is a sign that your body is fighting off something <gestures broadly>.

“The good news is that, while having a fever may be uncomfortable, fever in itself is not harmful,” says Shengyi Mao, M.D., an internist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. “It is rather, an important clue of something going on in the body. ”

Your body “does not lose the ability to regulate temperature during a fever. It simply regulates body temperature at a higher set point,” explains Raj Dasgupta, M.D., an assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine. “When a fever develops, body temperature rises toward the new higher set point,” he adds.

Keep in mind that eating food, wearing excess clothing, feeling really excited, and vigorous exercise can all spike your body temperature, says Nita Parikh, M.D., an internal medicine specialist with Community Care Physicians in Latham, New York.

Once your fever “breaks,” the set point returns to normal, and your temperature starts to decrease by dissipating heat through sweating and dilating blood vessels in the skin. “The human body regulates temperature by keeping a tight balance between heat gain and heat loss,” says Dr. Dasgupta. “Your temperature regulation system is more analogous to the operation of a home furnace, as opposed to the function of an air conditioner. ”

How to tell if you have a fever

To find out if you have a fever, you need to take your temperature using a thermometer. Wait at least 15 minutes after eating or drinking anything, smoking, or taking a hot bath before taking an oral reading, since this can alter mouth temperature and cause inaccurate readings. Then, take your thermometer and follow these steps:

• Before using a thermometer, hold it by the top end (not the bulb) and shake it with a quick snap of the wrist until the colored dye is below 96°F. If you’re concerned about dropping and breaking the thermometer, do this over a bed, Dr. Rosenberg says.
• Place the digital or glass thermometer under your tongue in one of the “pockets” located on either side of your mouth rather than right up front. These pockets are closer to blood vessels that reflect the body’s core temperature.
• Hold the thermometer in place with your lips, not your teeth. Breathe through your nose rather than your mouth so that the room temperature doesn’t affect the reading.
• Leave the thermometer in place for at least 3 minutes (some experts favor 5 to 7 minutes). After use, wash a thermometer in cool, soapy water or wipe down with rubbing alcohol. Never use hot water or store it near heat.

If for some reason you can not take your temperature orally, you can opt for the axillary, or armpit, method. Per Mayo Clinic, you can follow these steps:

• Place the thermometer under your armpit, making sure it touches dry skin and not clothing.
• Hold the thermometer tightly in place until you hear the thermometer beep indicating it’s done.
• Remove the thermometer and read the number.

If you decide to go the armpit route, just know that these readings are typically less accurate than oral temperatures, even if you do it the right way.

How long does a fever usually last?

As you can probably guess, the answer is “it depends. ” “How long a fever lasts can vary a lot from person to person and depending on the cause and treatment of the fever,” Dr. Mao says. Still, she says, “most fevers resolve within three days.”

Different illnesses also have different fever patterns, Dr. Goldberg says. Meaning, fevers may come on during certain times for come and go. “That’s something we pay attention to,” she says. “Some fevers happen at the same time every day and go away. With COVID, for example, they tend to happen in the middle of the night.”

But, if you have a fever that won’t quit, it’s a good idea to at least check in with your doctor.

When should you see a doctor about your fever?

Temperatures of 102°F or higher may be serious, particularly if you are also feeling sick with other symptoms. Adults with chronic illnesses, such as heart or respiratory disease, may not be able to tolerate prolonged high fevers. See your doctor if you experience one or more of the following, per our experts and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Headache with stiff neck
• Severe coughing or vomiting
• Pain taking a deep breath or difficulty breathing
• Facial pain
• Skin rash
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Persistent diarrhea
• Yellow or green discharge from the nose
• Temperature higher than 101°F that lasts more than 2 days or fails to respond at least partly to treatment
• Temperature higher than 103°F under any condition

Related Story

• So, You Can’t Actually “Sweat Out” a Fever

Korin Miller

Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.

Madeleine Haase

Madeleine, Prevention’s assistant editor, has a history with health writing from her experience as an editorial assistant at WebMD, and from her personal research at university. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in biopsychology, cognition, and neuroscience—and she helps strategize for success across Prevention’s social media platforms. 

How to quickly bring down the temperature in a child: best methods and tips

Content

• 1 Effective ways to quickly reduce the temperature in a child
  • 1.1 Symptoms of a fever
  • 1.2 Main causes of a fever in a child
  • 1.3 When to reduce child’s temperature ?
  • 1.4 How to take a child’s temperature
  • 1.5 What should I do if my child has a fever?
  • 1.6 Effective folk methods to reduce temperature
    • 1.6.1 1. Forehead and chest compresses
    • 1.6.2 2. Raspberry tea
    • 1.6.3 3. Water rubs
  • 1. 7 Medications are the right choice to reduce a child’s fever 9 0008
  • 1.8 Correct feeding with a fever
    • 1.8.1 Drinking enough fluids
    • 1.8.2 Eating rich in vitamins
    • 1.8.3 Avoiding fatty and spicy foods
  • 1.9 When to see a doctor if a child has a fever
  • 1.10 Precautions when using thermometers
  • 1.11 Tips for preventing fever in children
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.1 3.0.1
      • 1.13.0.2
      • 1.13.0.3
      • 1.13.0.4
      • 1.13.0.5
      • 1.13.0.6

Learn how to bring down your child’s temperature quickly in a safe and effective way. Tips from experienced moms and pediatricians. Quick relief for your baby.

Looking after a sick child is one of the most difficult and responsible activities for parents. Any mom or dad knows that a fever in a child is the first sign of a disease, and requires immediate action.

Temperature is an indicator of our health and can interfere with normal life. It is not an independent disease, but always accompanies any inflammatory processes in the body, such as colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections.

High temperature causes fear and anxiety in parents, but it is necessary to monitor the temperature indicators and, if necessary, take measures to reduce the temperature.

Symptoms of fever

An elevated body temperature in a child can manifest itself with various symptoms that indicate a violation of the body’s thermoregulation. One of the main signs is a hot, reddened face, which indicates an increase in blood temperature.

If the temperature is high for a long time, symptoms such as clouding of consciousness, convulsions and even loss of consciousness may occur.

• Hot, flushed face
• Weakness and drowsiness
• Loss of appetite and decreased activity headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rash
• Clouding consciousness, convulsions and loss of consciousness

If the child experiences any of these symptoms, then measures must be taken immediately to reduce body temperature. It is important to remember that fever can lead to serious consequences, so prompt and effective treatment is required.

The main causes of fever in a child

The temperature in a child can rise for various reasons. The most common of them:

1. Infectious diseases: One of the main causes of fever in a child is the presence of an infectious disease in his body. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.
2. Thyroid dysfunction: Children may have low or high levels of thyroid hormones, which can lead to changes in body temperature.
3. Allergic reactions: Some children may develop a fever due to an allergic reaction to food, medicines, dust and other allergens.
4. Brain damage: Certain diseases and injuries can affect the functioning of the hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating body temperature.

As a rule, to determine the cause of a rise in temperature, it is necessary to consult a doctor and carry out the necessary studies. Parents can help their child with fever through medication and other doctor’s advice.

When should a child’s temperature be lowered?

A high temperature in a child can be a sign of various diseases, such as SARS, influenza, tonsillitis and other infectious diseases. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to establish an accurate diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment.

If the child’s temperature continues to rise and has reached a critical point, then measures must be taken immediately to reduce it. A high temperature can lead to serious consequences, such as seizures, fainting, and even mental disorders.

• Signs to look out for:
  • Body temperature above 38.5 degrees Celsius
  • Child unable to sleep, restless sleep
  • Refusal to eat and drink
  • Severe pain in throat, ears, head
  • Strong dizziness, fainting
  • Red eyes and general ill health

doctor’s prescription).

How to take a child’s temperature

Temperature measurement is an important process in determining a child’s health. Using a thermometer allows you to accurately determine the body temperature and take measures to reduce when it rises.

There are several ways to measure a child’s temperature: rectal, axillary, ear and mouth. The rectal method is considered the most accurate, but requires some accuracy.

Rectal method requires the use of a thermometer and Vaseline. The thermometer should be lubricated with petroleum jelly and carefully inserted into the rectum to a depth of 1-2 cm. Then you must wait until the end of the temperature measurement.

The temperature can also be measured by the ear method. To do this, place the thermometer in the child’s ear and press the measurement button. The readings obtained may not be completely accurate, but this method is quick and painless.

The oral temperature measurement method is suitable for children over 4 years of age as it requires the child to hold the thermometer under the tongue. This method is also fast and painless.

What should I do if my child has a fever?

Provide peace and comfort

When the temperature is high, the child feels very unwell and needs some rest. Turn off the TV or lower the volume so as not to tire his mind. Keep the room cool and help your baby sleep.

Give plenty of fluids

At elevated temperatures, the body loses a lot of fluid. Provide your child with plenty of water and other continuous drinks such as fruit juices. They will help eliminate excess heat from the body, moisturize and restore lost fluid.

Give medicine if needed

Depending on how high the child’s temperature is, you can give medicine to help reduce the temperature. If you are not sure, ask your pediatrician for advice.

Refer to a doctor

If your child has a fever for more than 2-3 days, it is important to ask a doctor for advice. Consult a doctor if your child is under 3 months of age, has low immunity, or is in poor health.

Monitor data

Monitor your child’s health during fever. Watch for more severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or confusion.

Effective folk methods to reduce fever

1. Compresses on the forehead and chest

One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce a child’s temperature is various compresses. To reduce the heat, you can apply a compress from the infusion of a cucumber or water-alcohol mixture to the forehead and chest of the baby. An alternative is a potato compress poured with ice water and left for 10-15 minutes on the forehead and chest of the child.

2. Raspberry tea

Raspberry tea is a great way to fight a fever. This is not only tasty, but also a healthy drink that will help reduce the temperature and improve the well-being of the child. To make tea, you need to take fresh or frozen raspberries and pour boiling water over them. Insist 15 minutes. This tea can be drunk cold or hot.

3. Water rubdowns

If the temperature does not rise above 38 degrees, water rubdowns can be used. To make this case as effective as possible, you can add a little vinegar to the water, which will help bring down the temperature even faster. This simple technique will help not only reduce the fever, but also strengthen the child’s immunity.

• As a result , the use of traditional methods is one of the safest and most affordable ways to reduce the temperature in a child. Do not forget that the most important thing in the case of a disease is recovery, and not harm from the use of medicines.

Medications are the right choice to bring down a child’s fever

When a child develops a fever, many parents wonder how to bring it down. There are several ways to solve this problem, one of which is the use of medications.

Paracetamol is an effective fever reducer that does not cause severe side effects. However, do not exceed the dose, as this can lead to complications such as liver damage.

Ibuprofen is also good at reducing fever, but may cause side effects such as stomach irritation. Its use should be limited to 3-4 days to avoid possible complications.

Before using any medication, it is recommended to consult a specialist, especially if the child has previously experienced allergic reactions to drugs.

• Like any other medicine, medicines should be kept out of the reach of children.
• It is necessary to strictly observe the dosage indicated in the instructions for the drug.
• If severe side effects occur, seek medical attention immediately.

With the right medications, parents can bring their child’s temperature down quickly and safely and ensure a speedy recovery.

Proper nutrition during fever

Drinking enough fluids

When a child has a fever, it is very important to make sure that he drinks enough fluids. It can be water, skim milk, juice, fruit drink or any other drink that will quench your thirst and not cause harm to the child’s health.

• Fluid helps reduce body temperature by eliminating excess sweat;
• Lack of fluids can lead to dehydration and worsen the child’s health;
• Skim milk is a source of proteins, calcium and vitamin D, which will help to improve the health of the child.

Nutrition rich in vitamins

When a child has a fever, the body uses a lot of energy to fight the infection that caused the fever. Therefore, it is recommended to eat easily digestible foods that are rich in essential vitamins and minerals that will help strengthen the health of the child.

• Fruits and vegetables such as oranges, apples, carrots and bananas contain vitamin C and other nutrients;
• Fermented milk products, such as yogurt and kefir, contain calcium and probiotics that help keep a child’s stomach healthy.

Avoid fatty and spicy foods

When the temperature rises, the body’s metabolism is disturbed, so fatty and spicy foods should be avoided, which can make the child more susceptible to illness.

• Fatty and heavy foods can cause additional stress on the stomach and can worsen overall health;
• Spicy foods can irritate the mucous membranes and aggravate the symptoms of the disease that caused the fever.

When to See a Doctor for a Baby with a Fever

Checking a baby’s temperature is an essential part of parental care for the health and well-being of a baby. However, when the temperature rises above 38 degrees, adverse symptoms appear, or the high temperature persists for several days in a row, you should consult a doctor immediately.

You should also see a doctor if your baby is under three months of age or has a chronic illness. In case of abdominal pain, headache or respiratory problems, additionally, you should consult a pediatrician.

A drastic measure is to go to the ambulance for a temperature above 39 degrees, febrile convulsions, impaired consciousness or prolonged loss of strength.

Regardless of the cause of the fever, you should be aware of effective methods to lower the child’s temperature without harming health and be sure to follow the doctor’s recommendations.

Precautions when using thermometers

Using a thermometer to measure a child’s temperature is an important step in the correct diagnosis and treatment of an illness. However, a number of cautions must be observed:

• Thermometer selection: Use only thermometers specifically designed for taking the temperature of children. Do not use mouth or rectal thermometers intended for other purposes.
• Cleanliness and disinfection: The thermometer must be thoroughly washed and disinfected before use. Also, do not forget to clean the thermometer after each use using special tools.
• Correct measurement: To correctly measure the child’s temperature, it is necessary to take the measurement in the correct places: under the arm, in the ear or in the intestines. It is also important to insert the thermometer correctly and hold it for the required time.
• Do not make independent decisions: if you have any doubts about the correctness of the measurement or the temperature does not decrease after the measures taken, you should seek medical advice. Do not make independent decisions about the choice of drugs.

Tips for Preventing Fever in a Child

Fever in a child can be caused by many factors: infection, overwork, malnutrition and other reasons. To prevent a child from developing a fever, several measures must be taken:

• Nutrition: nutrition must be correct and balanced. The child’s diet should include foods rich in vitamins and minerals that will help strengthen the immune system and prevent diseases;
• Hygiene measures: the child should wash their hands regularly and practice good personal hygiene to avoid contracting infectious diseases;
• Sufficient rest: the child should receive sufficient rest and normal sleep to strengthen his body and avoid overwork;
• Normal room temperature: In the room where the child is, the temperature should be normal, no higher than 20 degrees, to avoid overheating and hypothermia.

By following these simple guidelines, you can prevent your child from getting a fever and keep her healthy.

Related videos:

Q&A:

Hot solution: how to bring down the temperature of a child without harm to health | Article

In the season of colds, the question arises as sharply as ever: should children with fever need to be helped on their own, or must they wait for professional help? Every careless action of adults can cost a child’s health, as happened recently in Ulan-Ude. After an overdose of an antipyretic, a four-year-old girl had to be rescued from a dangerous condition – Reye’s syndrome. However, it is also impossible to remain inactive in the case when the baby is in a fever. How to minimize the risks of treatment at home – in the material “Izvestia”.

Danger Syndrome

Information on the development of a severe complication in a child after self-treatment is discussed on the website of the Republican Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital of Ulan-Ude. Parents tried to use paracetamol to lower the temperature of their four-year-old daughter, who had the flu. The fever did not subside, the adults gave the girl the drug several times and exceeded the age dosage. As a result, the baby developed Reye’s syndrome, an acute condition characterized by severe damage to the liver and nervous system. A terrible diagnosis was made by the doctors of the infectious diseases hospital, to which my mother applied. The girl was assigned to the intensive care unit, and then sent for treatment to Moscow. Luckily, the baby is on the mend.

Photo: Izvestiya/Kristina Kormilitsyna

– Reye’s syndrome is an acute disorder of the brain and emergency fatty liver, in which the organ stops working. Usually occurs after a viral illness, especially upper respiratory tract infections, influenza, chickenpox, or gastroenteritis. This is combined with the use of antipyretic drugs. The amount of toxic substances from the virus and the processed dose of the drug (the same paracetamol) actually oppose the capabilities of the liver. The situation is aggravated by hereditary features , – says hepatologist, gastroenterologist Sergey Vyalov.

According to the doctor, the peak incidence of Reye’s syndrome occurred in the 1980s, when aspirin began to be actively used for treatment. Malfunctions in the body occur after a violation of fat oxidation due to the toxic effects of viruses, and are also associated with a sharp disruption in the functioning of mitochondria – cell particles responsible for oxygen respiration.

– The most common infectious agents that cause Reye’s syndrome are influenza virus types A and B and varicella zoster virus, – lists Sergey Vyalov. – Parainfluenza virus, adenovirus, coxsackie virus, measles, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, HIV, retrovirus, hepatitis A and B virus, mycoplasma, chlamydia, whooping cough, shigella, salmonella and polio can also be the cause.

Among the drugs that can trigger terrible changes in a person’s condition are acetaminophen, now obsolete tetracycline, valproic acid, warfarin, zidovudine, didanosine.

Photo: Izvestiya/Zurab Javakhadze

– Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also believed to cause or exacerbate this condition. The occurrence of Reye’s syndrome can be associated not only with drugs, but also with insecticides (poisonous substances for killing insect pests), herbicides (weed killers), aflatoxins (mold toxins), isopropyl alcohol, paint thinners, some fungi and vegetable herbal preparations , the expert continues.

According to Dr. Vyalov, due to early diagnosis and enhanced treatment, the death rate from Reye’s syndrome has recently dropped from 50% to less than 20%. Factors that increase the risk of death are age under five years of age, rapid onset of the disease, low blood sugar, and previous diarrhoea.

– The disease begins suddenly, with vomiting – on average three days after the disappearance of the symptoms of a viral disease. Neurological symptoms usually occur 24 to 48 hours after the onset of vomiting. The first manifestation is lethargy. And in children under two years of age, the initial signs are diarrhea and rapid breathing. Irritability, restlessness, convulsions and even coma also occur , explains the hepatologist.

Do no harm

General practitioner, cardiologist Denis Prokofiev is sure that you should consult a doctor about any medication. Especially when it comes to treating children. However, many people use drugs uncontrollably, backing up their intentions with dubious knowledge from the Internet.

Photo: IZVESTIA/Aleksey Maishev

– Antipyretics are the most dangerous. All of them belong to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Their problem is that, if used incorrectly, such drugs can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract, the development of bronchial asthma, and can also affect the hematopoietic system, causing severe damage , says Prokofiev.

The second group of drugs, the uncontrolled use of which should be feared, are antibacterial agents. If used improperly, according to the doctor, they lead to fungal infections – they cause candidiasis of the esophagus and oral cavity, and contribute to the development of bacterial resistance. Denis Prokofiev advises to be especially careful with vasoconstrictor drops – in case of an overdose, they can affect cardiovascular activity and increase blood pressure. Moreover, the drugs aggravate the course of rhinitis, causing hypertrophy of the nasal mucosa.

– Another dangerous group is the class of mucolytics. We believe that such syrups must be used when coughing. However, among mucoactive drugs there are four completely different classes, which act in completely different ways , the general practitioner continues.

Photo: RIA Novosti/Alexander Kryazhev

According to the expert, when self-medicating people often rely on the recommendations of pharmacists in pharmacies or act at their own peril and risk. This only exacerbates the situation. Firstly, the choice often falls on herbal preparations, which may turn out to be allergens and, for this reason, increase coughing. Secondly, an improperly selected agent dilutes sputum, it descends from the bronchi into the lung tissue, from where it is then quite difficult to “get it”.

– All this enhances the development of cough and complicates the treatment process if it is necessary to use classic mucolytics. Therefore, the group, class and dosage of the drug are also of key importance here, as well as whether these drugs are needed or not, which only a doctor can know, , emphasizes Denis Prokofiev.

The doctor also criticizes the uncontrolled use of inhalers and nebulizer solutions, such as bronchodilators. People, by independently prescribing dosages for themselves, “earn” bronchial asthma, which then will require a course or life-long intake of inhalation therapy. And all because, out of ignorance, they initially do not comply with the dosage regimen and do not conduct additional diagnostics.

Themselves with a mustache

Parents and doctors have an ambivalent attitude towards forced self-treatment. On the one hand, prescribing drugs is the prerogative of doctors. But sometimes it does not make sense to go on principle, waiting only for the doctor’s opinion. In this case, maximum caution is required.

– Parents are not always able to call a doctor on the same day. Especially now, when the flu epidemic is in full swing. Ambulance and ambulance staff rushed to the rescue in difficult situations. That is why sometimes mothers are engaged in lowering the temperature on their own , – explains pediatrician, candidate of medical sciences, associate professor, doctor of the highest category Maria Snegotskaya.

Photo: RIA Novosti/Maxim Bogodvid

The expert notes that each box of children’s medicines lists dosages according to the age and weight of the child. In addition, an individual reaction to a particular drug is not excluded. And if such a need arose, then an adult should meticulously study all the indicators, acting on the principle of “do no harm.” The danger is that parents often get lost and risk taking the wrong step. In the case of a small resident of Ulan-Ude, apparently, the mistake of adults played a fatal role – the parents repeated the dose for a short time, which was summed up and led to a terrible diagnosis.

— It happens that adults give a child one dose, wait half an hour and, if the temperature does not drop, they give the same drug again. But the fact is that with different viruses, children react differently to antipyretics, and some types of drugs do not work on someone. Important: one antipyretic should not be used more than three or four times in a row , the doctor explains.

Maria Snegotskaya advises alternating drugs that bring down the temperature so that the overall toxic effect of one drug does not accumulate. Usually forty minutes is enough to understand whether the remedy is working or not. And yet, according to the doctor, the toxic effect depends on the individual reaction of the body.

– I remember a situation when a child received an adequate dose of paracetamol, but it all ended with sudden death syndrome. Reye’s syndrome in this case can be called an individual feature of the child’s reaction, the expert adds.

Photo: Global Look Press

According to the pediatrician, if a child has received a high dosage of the drug by mistake, induce vomiting within 10 minutes and give him sorbents. You can’t hesitate – after half an hour the drug is completely absorbed, and there is no antidote for this case. Then you need the help of professionals. The doctor explains that the toxic dose exceeds the therapeutic dose by at least ten times. The baby can get it only if he accidentally drank the syrup on his own. However, vials with children’s medicines are equipped with special protective caps, which small patients themselves cannot open.

On the decline

Of course, no parent will sit idly by waiting for medical help. The pediatrician clarifies that in children under the age of five, so-called febrile convulsions are possible, and therefore the temperature above 38.5 must be reduced, but not strive for 36.6, but stop at about 37.5.

— “Swings” of temperature rise and its sharp fall cause a load on the cardiovascular system. Candles with antipyretic drugs should be limited in use due to the vulnerability of the rectal mucosa. They are used only when the child is unable to swallow the syrup , the doctor continues.

Doctors from Ulan-Ude believe that medication (physical) methods of lowering body temperature are sometimes effective in case of fever. In anticipation of help, you can wipe the body with cool water, a weak solution of vinegar, apply cold to the area of ​​​​large arteries, and make wet wraps. You also need to monitor the drinking regime and be sure to ventilate the room. The patient should not be wrapped up so as not to interfere with heat transfer.

Photo: Global Look Press/Dr. Wilfried Bahnmüller

Some parents prefer to rub their child with vodka to bring down the fever. It is absolutely impossible to do this because of the high absorption capacity of the skin. Moreover, this method does not work with “white” fever, when the skin of a temperature person is pale, and the hands and feet are cold. If at the same time vasoconstrictor drugs are used, then centralization of blood supply may occur – capillary blood flow decreases, and blood is sharply discharged through the arteries and veins. As a result, febrile convulsions and even cerebral edema are not excluded.

– If the child is pale, then, in addition to antipyretics, such a physical method of cooling helps, such as cold to large vessels. Cooling compresses should be applied to the temples, ankles, to the liver area , explains Maria Snegotskaya.

Whose responsibility is it

The parents themselves believe that in some cases it is simply impossible to do without initiative. According to Muscovite Olga Udaltsova, mothers are forced to treat their children primarily because it is sometimes difficult to call a doctor at home. Parental experience and experience usually help out – a list of drugs that can help, many adults have memorized no worse than pediatricians.

– I know what to give my daughter for her fever. Usually, in the annotations to all medicines, acceptable doses are indicated. I don’t understand how you can make a mistake – the instructions must be read carefully. From cough and runny nose I select already familiar preparations. I also give antivirals. If the high temperature lasts for more than two days, then we call the doctor to listen to the child. Usually the doctor prescribes what I already “prescribed” , says Udaltsova.

Photo: IZVESTIA/Alexander Kazakov

Tatyana Dmitrieva, a resident of the Moscow region, a mother of two children, also considers the most important point to be familiar with the data, which indicates the dosage by height and weight.

– I buy a drug, carefully read the instructions. If the temperature persists for more than three days, then on the fourth day I call the doctor, because I know that antibiotics are needed. I have never used such “strong” drugs in my life without consulting a doctor, because I don’t know how to calculate the dosage and I don’t know what specific drug is needed, Tatyana Dmitrieva believes.

Meanwhile, experts do not recommend to invade the medical profession far and abuse, for example, nasal drops, which have anti-edematous and vasoconstrictive effects. Such self-activity is fraught with serious problems.

– These drugs are quite toxic and overdose can cause various complications, such as a change in general pressure. Frequent use of any vasoconstrictor drug leads to rebound syndrome – the vessels stop responding to it. In the future, no drops help, and the patient has to be treated for atrophic rhinitis, in which the nasal mucosa and the nerve endings in it become thinner , says the pediatrician.

Photo: RIA Novosti/Aleksey Kudenko

The doctor complains that even with a harmless runny nose, parents are in a hurry to use complex drugs that are recommended only for serious indications – for otitis media and sinusitis. If the situation is not critical, then it is better to use the so-called hypertonic solutions – salt water of the desired concentration.

Prokofiev, a cardiologist, is sure that an independent choice of vitamins will not bring any benefit to a person – this should be done under the control of laboratory parameters.

– If we say, for example, that a child has low vitamin D, then you need to determine its concentration in the blood, undergo a course of treatment and make a control analysis, confirming the effectiveness of the therapy taken.