Fevers are a necessary part of fighting off infections and illnesses, but if a fever becomes too high or lasts too long, it can be an indication of a more serious underlying condition. Fortunately, most fevers can be easily reduced if done properly. Here’s what you can do to bring down a fever in adults and children.
-
Take a cool bath. If the temperature of the body is higher than normal, a cool bath can help to bring it down. For a child, make sure the water is not too cold or too hot. If a bath is not convenient, try taking a cool shower or wiping the body down with a cool damp cloth.
-
Use fever-reducing medications. Fever-reducing drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be useful in lowering a fever. However, it should be kept in mind that these drugs can only reduce the temperature of the body and the underlying cause of the fever must still be treated.
-
Increase fluid intake. Staying hydrated helps the body regulate its temperature. Encourage a person suffering from a fever to sip water, juice, or tea throughout the day.
-
Apply cold packs or washcloths. If a fever is accompanied by body aches and pains, place a cold compress on the forehead or other parts of the body. This helps the body cool down and can also provide a soothing, calming effect.
-
Get rest. Rest helps the body to fight off infection and recover, so encourage a person with a fever to get some sleep.
-
Dress lightly. Wear thin, light clothes and avoid piling on too many blankets. This helps to keep the body temperature lower.
-
Stay out of the heat. Avoid activities or environments that create too much heat. This can worsen a fever.
Overall, by using the tips above and following your doctor’s advice, a fever can be quickly and effectively brought down and managed.
Fevers are a necessary part of fighting off infections and illnesses, but if a fever becomes too high or lasts too long, it can be an indication of a more serious underlying condition. Fortunately, most fevers can be easily reduced if done properly. Here’s what you can do to bring down a fever in adults and children.
Take a cool bath. If the temperature of the body is higher than normal, a cool bath can help to bring it down. For a child, make sure the water is not too cold or too hot. If a bath is not convenient, try taking a cool shower or wiping the body down with a cool damp cloth.
Use fever-reducing medications. Fever-reducing drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be useful in lowering a fever. However, it should be kept in mind that these drugs can only reduce the temperature of the body and the underlying cause of the fever must still be treated.
Increase fluid intake. Staying hydrated helps the body regulate its temperature. Encourage a person suffering from a fever to sip water, juice, or tea throughout the day.
Apply cold packs or washcloths. If a fever is accompanied by body aches and pains, place a cold compress on the forehead or other parts of the body. This helps the body cool down and can also provide a soothing, calming effect.
Get rest. Rest helps the body to fight off infection and recover, so encourage a person with a fever to get some sleep.
Dress lightly. Wear thin, light clothes and avoid piling on too many blankets. This helps to keep the body temperature lower.
Stay out of the heat. Avoid activities or environments that create too much heat. This can worsen a fever.
Overall, by using the tips above and following your doctor’s advice, a fever can be quickly and effectively brought down and managed.