How to get rid of a fever fast? Safe home and OTC remedies

October 1, 2025 •

4 min read

A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, often signaling that your immune system is fighting an infection. To get rid of a fever fast, focus on supportive care and the right treatments to ease discomfort and aid your body’s recovery, but it's important to do so safely.

Quick Summary

Manage a fever by focusing on supportive care. This includes staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, using appropriate over-the-counter medications, and employing safe cooling techniques.

Key Points

Prioritize Rest and Hydration: Give your body the energy it needs to fight infection by getting plenty of rest and drinking clear fluids like water and broth.
Use OTC Medications Safely: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce a fever and manage discomfort, but always follow dosage instructions and check for contraindications.
Employ Gentle Cooling Methods: Apply cool compresses or take a lukewarm bath to help lower your body temperature. Avoid cold water, which can trigger shivering.
Dress and Rest for Comfort: Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and keep your room cool to prevent heat from getting trapped and worsening your fever.
Know When to Seek Help: While most fevers resolve at home, seek immediate medical attention for high temperatures or if other severe symptoms like a stiff neck, confusion, or difficulty breathing are present.

Understanding Fever: Your Body's Defense Mechanism

A fever is not an illness in itself, but rather a symptom indicating an underlying condition, most commonly an infection. When your body detects invading pathogens like bacteria or viruses, it raises its internal temperature. This elevated temperature makes it more difficult for these pathogens to thrive, while also activating your immune system to produce more white blood cells and antibodies. While this is a natural and often beneficial process, a high fever can cause significant discomfort and, in rare cases, become dangerous, necessitating interventions to help your body manage its temperature effectively. For adults, a fever is generally considered 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, though a person's normal baseline can vary.

Immediate Steps: How to Get Rid of a Fever Fast at Home

For a mild to moderate fever, there are several home care strategies you can employ to feel better and help your body recover more quickly.

Prioritize Rest and Hydration

Rest is one of the most effective treatments for a fever. Your body uses a lot of energy to fight off an infection, so resting allows your immune system to focus on the task at hand. Physical activity can also raise your body temperature, so it’s best to stay in bed until the fever subsides. Dehydration is a major risk with fever due to sweating and increased body temperature. Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial for maintaining fluid balance and can also aid in cooling your body through sweating.

Recommended fluids:
- Water
- Clear broths
- Electrolyte-rich drinks
- Herbal teas, like chamomile or ginger
- Coconut water
Fluids to avoid:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Sugary sodas

Over-the-Counter Medication Options

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can effectively reduce fever and alleviate related symptoms like headaches and muscle aches. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the label and be mindful of your overall intake, as some cold and flu medications also contain fever-reducing ingredients.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Works as a pain reliever and fever reducer. It is generally safe for adults and children when used as directed.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces fever, pain, and inflammation. Note that ibuprofen should not be used if you have a history of aspirin allergy or stomach ulcers.

Utilize Cooling Techniques

Gentle cooling can provide comfort and help lower your body temperature, but it's important to do it correctly to avoid shivering, which can actually increase your temperature.

Lukewarm baths or sponge baths: Soaking in or sponging with lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes can help regulate body temperature. Avoid cold baths or ice packs, as they can cause shivering.
Cool compresses: Apply a cool, damp washcloth to your forehead, wrists, and neck. Replace it as it warms up to maintain the cooling effect.

Optimize Your Environment

Creating a cool, comfortable environment helps your body cool down naturally.

Dress lightly: Wear loose, lightweight clothing to allow heat to escape from your skin.
Stay cool: Keep your room at a comfortable, cool temperature. Avoid bundling up with heavy blankets, as this can trap heat.

Comparing Fever-Reducing Medications

Choosing the right OTC medication depends on your health profile and age. Here's a comparison to help you decide:


Feature	Acetaminophen (Tylenol)	Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Mechanism	Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the brain, which affects the body's thermostat.	A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that blocks enzymes involved in producing pain and inflammation.
Effect	Reduces fever and relieves pain.	Reduces fever, relieves pain, and decreases inflammation.
Best for	Quick fever relief and pain management, especially for those with stomach sensitivities.	Pain relief with anti-inflammatory benefits, good for muscle aches.
Cautions	Be careful not to exceed the maximum daily dose; high doses can cause liver damage.	Not for those with stomach ulcers, kidney problems, or aspirin allergies.
Children	Generally safe for children; follow dosage by age/weight. Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers.	Safe for children over 6 months; follow dosage by age/weight.
Alternating	Can be alternated with ibuprofen under a doctor's guidance, but be cautious to avoid dosing errors.	Can be alternated with acetaminophen under a doctor's guidance.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most fevers resolve on their own, certain symptoms and conditions warrant a call to your healthcare provider or a trip to the emergency room.

Infants and Young Children: Any fever in an infant under 3 months (100.4°F or higher rectally) requires immediate medical evaluation. For children 3-36 months, a fever of 102°F or higher that lasts more than one day may require a doctor's visit, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
Adults: See a doctor if your fever reaches 103°F (39.4°C) or higher, lasts more than three to five days, or doesn't improve with medication.
Accompanying Symptoms: Seek immediate medical attention if a fever is accompanied by:
- Severe headache or stiff neck
- Confusion or extreme fatigue
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Seizures or convulsions
- A new or unusual skin rash
- Persistent vomiting or abdominal pain

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Fever Management

Getting rid of a fever fast involves a combination of supportive home care and, when necessary, appropriate medication. The quickest path to recovery is prioritizing rest, staying well-hydrated with water and broth, and using mild cooling techniques like lukewarm baths. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can effectively reduce discomfort and lower your temperature. Always pay close attention to your body and accompanying symptoms. Remember, a fever is your body's tool for fighting illness, but it's important to manage it safely. Always consult a healthcare provider for severe or prolonged fevers, or if you have any pre-existing health conditions or concerns. For further information, you can also consult resources like the Mayo Clinic.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most fevers last between one to three days, though some can persist longer depending on the underlying cause. If a fever lasts more than three to five days in an adult or more than 24-48 hours in a child, contact a healthcare provider.

You can alternate between acetaminophen and ibuprofen for fever control, but it is important to do so with caution and clear dosing instructions to avoid errors. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers.

The myth about starving a fever is incorrect. Your body needs energy and nutrients to fight off illness, so staying hydrated and eating small, nutrient-rich meals like soups and fruits is beneficial. You should focus on hydration if your appetite is low.

Digital thermometers can be used orally, rectally, or under the armpit. Rectal temperature is most accurate for infants and young children. For older children and adults, oral temperature is common.

Adults should be concerned if a fever reaches 103°F (39.4°C) or higher. Seek immediate medical attention if this high temperature is accompanied by severe symptoms like a stiff neck, confusion, or chest pain.

Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton. This helps your body cool down naturally and prevents trapping heat.

Yes, a fever can lead to dehydration because your body loses fluids through increased sweating and metabolism. Drinking plenty of fluids is essential to prevent dehydration and help your body manage its temperature.