Fever occurs when a person’s body temperature rises above the normal range. Although fevers tend to be harmless, they can cause great discomfort. A very high or persistent fever sometimes requires medical attention, though most fevers only require treatment with home remedies.
Infection is the most common cause of fever. In fact, developing a fever is the body’s way of helping fight off the infection.
Fevers can be risky for adults in some cases. See your doctor for a fever that’s 103°F (39°C) or higher that isn’t responding to medication or lasts longer than three days. Also seek treatment if a fever is accompanied by:
- frequent vomiting
- trouble breathing
- chest or abdominal pain
- convulsions or seizures
- severe headache
- rash
- sensitivity to bright light
- stiff neck
Home remedies for adults
There are several things an adult can do to feel more comfortable when they have a fever. These include:Drinking lots of fluids
During a fever, the body needs to use more water to compensate for its elevated temperature. This can lead to dehydration.
Drinking water or an electrolyte replacement drink can help rehydrate the body.
Taking a tepid bath
Many people consider taking a cold bath when they have a fever. However, doing so can cause shivering, which will increase body temperature even more.
Instead, people can take a lukewarm or tepid bath to help the body cool off. A bath can also help soothe tired muscles.
Resting
Many people consider taking a cold bath when they have a fever. However, doing so can cause shivering, which will increase body temperature even more. Instead, people can take a lukewarm or tepid bath to help the body cool off. A bath can also help soothe tired muscles.Using over-the-counter medications
Medications are not usually necessary to treat a fever. However, some over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help reduce a fever and make a person feel more comfortable. These medications include:
- acetaminophen
- naproxen
- ibuprofen
MIMI (Multi ion mask insert)
- Can be worn with any facemask and provides additional heavy-duty protection.
- Adult & Youth Sizes Available
Dressing lightly
Having a fever can cause a person to feel hot one minute and cold the next. Wearing too many layers can trap heat against the body, raising body temperature further.
People should wear few layers and add more if they start to feel cold.
Bottomline
A fever does not usually require medical treatment. However, taking OTC medications can lower a person’s body temperature and help them feel more comfortable.
Fever is a common symptom of infection and inflammation. In most cases, a person can help soothe a fever at home.
