Piling on sweatshirts and blankets can actually be dangerous if you have a fever because it can raise your body temperature even more.
If your room is hot and stuffy, open a window or turn on a fan.
Sponge baths are ideal for children who have a fever. You may have read that applying rubbing alcohol to the skin can help reduce a fever, but the alcohol can be absorbed into the skin, leading to alcohol poisoning, so stick with water!
Acetaminophen can help reduce fever as well as the aches and other side effects in the body. If you have any liver problems, do not take acetaminophen without talking to your doctor first. [6] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source Aspirin can also be used to reduce fevers in adults, but it should never be given to children, as it has been linked to a serious disease called Reye’s syndrome. [7] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Keep in mind that these medications might make you feel better, but they will not treat the underlying cause of your fever. If you suspect that you have some kind of bacterial infection, it is extremely important that you see your doctor and take all of your prescribed medications.
Staying home from school or work is probably a good idea, both because you need your rest, and because you want to avoid passing on a contagious virus or bacterial infection to your classmates or coworkers.
The amount of water your body needs will depend upon many different factors, including your weight and activity level. Most people should drink between nine and 13 cups of water each day. [11] X Trustworthy Source EatRight. org Organization associated with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics providing advice about food, health, and fitness Go to source Water is best, but you can also drink juices, diluted sports drinks (1 part water to 1 part sports dink), or an oral electrolyte solution like Pedialyte.
Lean proteins and healthy fats from sources such as olive oil are very important. Eating foods that naturally contain probiotics, such as yogurt, may help your body fight off illness. [13] X Research source You can also try supplementing your diet with multivitamins for general health, or with Vitamin C and Omega-3 fatty acids for immune strength and decreased inflammation. Be sure to discuss all supplements with your doctor, especially if you are taking any medications.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as confusion, difficulty moving or breathing, blue lips or nails, seizures, stiff neck, or severe headaches. A high fever in a child can trigger a febrile seizure, which is usually harmless and generally does not indicate a more serious health problem; however, you should take your child to the doctor as soon as possible following her first febrile seizure. Call an ambulance if the seizure lasts longer than a few minutes. Otherwise, drive your child to the emergency room as soon as the seizure is over. [16] X Research source
Don’t take antibiotics if you have a virus, such as the flu or a common cold. The medication will not be effective in treating the virus. [18] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source Take your antibiotics as prescribed until they are gone —even if you start feeling better. This ensures you truly eradicate the bacteria and prevents antibiotic resistance in the future.
For children three months and younger, seek medical treatment for a fever of 100. 4°F (38°C) or higher. For children between three and 12 months of age, seek medical treatment for a fever of 102. 2°F (39°C) or higher. For older children and adults, seek medical treatment for a fever of 105°F (40. 6°C) or higher that does not readily subside with treatment. A prolonged fever over 107. 6°F (42°C) can cause the body to start shutting down and may lead to brain damage if not treated. You should also seek medical treatment for any fever that persists for longer than 48 to 72 hours, or longer than 24 to 48 hours for children under the age of two.
If you have any chronic medical conditions, you should contact your doctor whenever you get a fever. A fever may also be the first sign of a serious disease, such as cancer, so be sure to see a doctor if you have a persistent fever.
Other symptoms of hyperthermia include weakness, nausea, confusion, dizziness, and an altered mental state. People with hyperthermia usually need to be treated at a hospital, so get emergency medical help right away. While waiting for medical treatment, you can attempt to lower your body temperature by removing excess clothing, applying cold water to your skin, moving to a cool, well-ventilated location, and drinking lots of cool fluids.
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