Fever is a natural response of the body to infection or inflammation. It indicates that the immune system is actively fighting off pathogens. However, a high temperature can sometimes cause discomfort, hinder daily functioning, and even threaten health. In such cases, it’s important to know how to reduce it quickly and safely.
In this article, Baltimore Chronicle’ll explore effective ways to combat fever in both adults and children. You’ll learn about pharmaceutical methods, home remedies, when not to lower a fever, and the importance of proper care for a sick person.
Causes of Elevated Body Temperature
Body temperature can rise for various reasons, not always related to viruses or bacteria.
Main factors contributing to fever:
- Viral or bacterial infections (e.g., colds, flu, tonsillitis)
- Inflammatory processes in the body
- Reaction to vaccination
- Overheating (heatstroke)
- Autoimmune diseases
- Stress or excessive physical activity
A temperature up to 38°C usually doesn’t require intervention. It indicates that the immune system is active. However, if the fever exceeds 38.5°C or is accompanied by severe symptoms, action is necessary.
When You Should Lower a Fever
Not every case of high temperature needs immediate treatment. Sometimes, it’s better to let the body fight the infection naturally.
Guidelines for lowering a fever:
- In adults — if the temperature exceeds 38.5°C or is accompanied by headache, body aches, or weakness
- In children under 3 years — when the fever reaches 38°C
- In people with chronic heart, vascular, or CNS diseases — even slight fever should be addressed
- If there’s a history of seizures or loss of consciousness
In any case, if the fever lasts more than 3 days, it’s important to consult a doctor.
Effective Methods to Quickly Lower Fever
Medications
Pharmaceuticals are the most effective option when dealing with high fever.
Most commonly used drugs:
- Paracetamol — reduces fever and relieves pain
- Ibuprofen — has anti-inflammatory effects, effective for inflammation-related fever
- Aspirin — for adults only (not recommended for children)
- Combined drugs (Coldrex, Fervex) — contain multiple components
General rules for taking antipyretics:
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage
- Avoid taking multiple drugs with the same active ingredient
- Consider possible allergic reactions
Home Remedies
There are many time-tested methods that help naturally reduce fever.
Popular methods:
- Wiping the body with room temperature water (not alcohol or vinegar)
- Drinking tea with raspberry or linden flower
- Chamomile or calendula infusion
- Compresses on the forehead and calves
These methods are especially effective with mild fever or in combination with medication.
Home Care Tips During Fever
Proper rest and care can speed up recovery even without medication.
Recommended steps:
- Stay in bed and avoid physical exertion
- Drink plenty of fluids (water, fruit drinks, tea)
- Ventilate the room, maintaining a temperature of 18–20°C
- Don’t bundle up too much
- Check the temperature every 3–4 hours
It’s also important to provide the patient with nutritious, easy-to-digest food rich in vitamins.
How to Lower a Child’s Fever
Children react to fever differently, and any method must be as safe as possible.
Tips for parents:
- Use children’s formulations of paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Avoid cold rubdowns or alcohol-based solutions
- Ensure the child stays well-hydrated
- Watch for overall condition: lethargy, seizures — call a doctor immediately
When to Call a Doctor:
- Fever over 39°C that doesn’t go down after 2 days
- The child develops a rash, breathing difficulties, or vomiting
- There are seizures or loss of consciousness
Comparison of Fever-Reducing Methods
| Method | Speed of Action | Safety | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol | High | High | Children, Adults |
| Ibuprofen | High | High | Children, Adults |
| Aspirin | High | Low for children | Adults only |
| Water wipes | Medium | High | All age groups |
| Herbal teas | Low | High | All age groups |
| Combined medications | High | Medium | Adults |
Preventing Frequent Fevers
To avoid recurring fevers, it’s important to maintain a strong immune system.
Recommendations:
- Eat a balanced, vitamin-rich diet
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Get adequate sleep
- Avoid hypothermia
- Treat chronic illnesses promptly
- Stay up to date with recommended vaccinations
Strengthening the immune system is the best way to prevent fever-related issues.
Earlier we wrote about how to boost your immunity.