Have a really high fever? Fevers (also known as high body temperature) occur when the body is fighting a bacterial or viral infectious disease. Fevers help kill the bacteria or virus that is making you sick, and stimulate your immune system’s response to being sick. While fevers are a natural bodily response to being sick, they can be bothersome and uncomfortable, especially when they exceed a temperature of 102ºF. Here are 5 ways to reduce a bothersome high fever:
- Take an OTC Fever Reducer:
Off-the-counter medications such as Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen are effective medications in reducing fever and relieving pain. Make sure you take the proper dosage for your age/weight and ensure that it doesn’t interfere with any existing medications you may be taking.
2. Stay Hydrated and Sleep:
Fevers are known to dehydrate you and drain you of electrolytes due to excessive sweating. Drinking lots of water and tea is very important in helping to reduce the discomfort that comes with having a high fever. Sleep is also extremely important, as rest helps your immune system fight the disease as quickly as possible, cutting back the amount of time your fever will last.
3. Use Cold Compresses:
Place a cold compress on your forehead for no longer than 20 minutes and dry with a towel afterwards. Cold compresses help lower your body temperature and therefore can potentially break your fever.
4.Remove Unnecessary Layers of Clothing:
Unless you have the chills along with your fever, wearing heavy layers of clothing can be stifling and make your body temperature rise even higher. Take off any excessive or unnecessary layers of clothing to help your body cool down.
5. Drink Ginger Root Tea:
Studies show that Ginger Root tea can be helpful in reducing fever due to its antibacterial properties that can help kill the bad bacteria causing the infectious disease. It also helps boost the immune system, helping your body fight the infection quicker.