In most cases, fever is usually not something you have to worry too much about because your body is using it as a way to fight off infections. However, a high fever can sometimes make you feel extremely uncomfortable. For example, you may have chills and experience muscle pain and even joint pain. In these cases, there are some over-the-counter products and at home remedies that can be used to lower your body temperature and therefore also alleviate some of these symptoms.
OVER-THE-COUNTER PRODUCTS
To reduce a fever
Products that can be used to bring down a fever include:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Feverall)
- Ibuprofen (Motrin IB, Advil), Naproxen (Aleve)
- Aspirin (Ascriptin, Bayer, St Josephs).
These products begin working in as fast as ½ hr. to 1hr. Ibuprofen gives the fastest relief.
Do NOT give Aspirin to a child because it is associated with Reyes syndrome, a rare but potentially deadly disease.
AT HOME REMEDIES
Drink plenty of fluids
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. For example, water, hot tea with lemon, chicken broth, fruit juice, etc. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
Wear lightweight clothing
- Wear lightweight clothing so that body heat can escape.
Maintain room at a comfortable temperature
- Maintain room at a comfortable temperature-- not too hot or too cold.
Take sponge baths with lukewarm water
- Take sponge baths with lukewarm water to bring fever down. But do NOT use ice cold water because it may cause you to shiver and raise your body temperature.
Get plenty of rest.
PLEASE SEE YOUR DOCTOR IF YOU:
- Have a temperature >104 F
- Have a history of febrile seizures that includes severe shaking of the whole body, loss of consciousness, and difficulty with breathing
- Have had a fever for >3 days
- Are younger than 6 months and have a temperature >101F
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