How to get rid of a high temperature quickly? A guide to safe and effective fever reduction

According to Mayo Clinic, a fever is generally considered to be a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in adults. Knowing how to get rid of a high temperature quickly can provide much-needed comfort, but it's essential to do so safely and effectively while addressing the underlying cause.

Quick Summary

Fever is the body's natural response to illness, and discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter medication, rest, and hydration. Simple cooling techniques, such as lukewarm baths and cool compresses, also offer relief. It is crucial to monitor symptoms and understand when a doctor's evaluation is necessary, particularly for infants, older adults, and those with chronic conditions.

Key Points

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and clear fluids to combat fluid loss from sweating and prevent dehydration.

• Use Lukewarm Water: Take a lukewarm bath or apply cool compresses to the forehead and wrists to help lower temperature without causing shivering.

• Opt for OTC Medication: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can effectively reduce fever and discomfort, but always check dosages and avoid aspirin for children.

• Dress Lightly: Wear loose, breathable clothing and avoid heavy blankets to help dissipate body heat naturally.

• Get Plenty of Rest: Allowing your body to rest is crucial for conserving energy and enabling your immune system to fight the infection effectively.

• Know When to Seek Help: Pay close attention to age-specific guidelines and serious symptoms like confusion, stiff neck, or breathing difficulty, which warrant immediate medical attention.

Understanding a High Temperature

A high temperature, or fever, is a sign that your body's immune system is fighting an infection, and it is usually not a cause for alarm. The higher body heat can make conditions less hospitable for bacteria and viruses, aiding your recovery. Therefore, the goal of fever management is not necessarily to eliminate the fever, but to relieve discomfort and prevent complications like dehydration. Understanding this allows for a balanced approach to treatment, combining home care with appropriate medical intervention when needed.

Immediate Strategies for Relief at Home

When a fever strikes, several practical, immediate steps can provide significant relief and help reduce your temperature. These methods focus on physical comfort and supporting your body's natural cooling mechanisms.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is one of the most critical steps in managing a high temperature. Your body loses fluids faster through sweating and increased metabolism during a fever, which can lead to dehydration.

• Drink plenty of clear fluids, such as water, broth, or electrolyte-replacement beverages.
• Herbal teas like ginger or chamomile can be soothing and provide hydration.
• Consider ice pops or crushed ice to help cool you down internally and maintain fluid intake.

Rest in a Cool Environment

Rest is essential for recovery, as it allows your body to direct energy toward fighting the infection.

• Keep your room cool and well-ventilated. A fan can help circulate air and promote a cooling effect.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable materials like cotton to help heat escape from your skin.
• Use a light sheet instead of heavy blankets, even if you feel chilly, to avoid trapping excess body heat.

Use Cool Compresses and Lukewarm Baths

Gentle cooling can provide comfort without shocking your system. It is important to avoid cold water, which can cause shivering and actually raise your core temperature.

• Apply a cool, damp washcloth to key areas like your forehead, neck, wrists, and groin.
• Take a lukewarm bath. This allows the water to evaporate from your skin, which helps lower your body temperature. Ensure the water is not cold enough to cause shivering.
• For children, a lukewarm sponge bath is a safe way to bring down their temperature and provide comfort.

The Role of Over-the-Counter Medication

For adults and children over six months, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be effective in reducing fever and managing associated aches and pains.

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): This is a common fever reducer and pain reliever. Ensure you follow dosage instructions carefully and do not combine it with other medications that contain acetaminophen.
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can reduce both fever and inflammation. Ibuprofen is often considered more effective for reducing fever in children than acetaminophen. It is not recommended for infants under six months of age.
• Aspirin: Should only be used by adults and is never recommended for children or teenagers due to the risk of Reye's syndrome, a serious condition affecting the brain and liver.

It is possible to alternate between acetaminophen and ibuprofen under a doctor's guidance, but be very careful to avoid incorrect dosing. Always read labels and consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication regimen.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most fevers are manageable at home, certain situations require prompt medical evaluation. The need for medical care varies significantly with age and accompanying symptoms. Hackensack Meridian Health provides a helpful guideline on when to seek care for a fever.

Age-Specific Guidelines for Medical Attention	Age Group	When to Call a Doctor	When to Go to the Emergency Room	Notes
Infants (0–3 months)	Any temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.	Any fever, accompanied by lethargy, irritability, or unusual behavior.	Any fever in a newborn warrants immediate evaluation.
Children (3 months–36 months)	Fever of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher, or a fever lasting more than 24 hours.	Fever above 103°F (39.4°C), accompanied by a seizure, rash, or difficulty breathing.	Seek immediate care for seizures.
Adults	Fever of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher, or lasting more than 48 hours and not responding to OTC medication.	Fever above 105°F (40.5°C), or accompanied by a severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, chest pain, or trouble breathing.	Individuals with chronic illnesses or who are immunocompromised should be especially vigilant.

Dispelling Common Fever Myths

Several common misconceptions can lead to ineffective or even dangerous practices for treating a fever.

• Myth: Cold baths are best. Reality: Putting a person in a cold bath or ice bath can induce shivering, which is the body's way of generating heat, and this can ultimately increase core body temperature. A lukewarm bath is the correct method for cooling down safely.
• Myth: You should 'sweat out' a fever. Reality: Over-bundling can trap heat and make a fever worse. You should wear light layers to allow heat to dissipate naturally.
• Myth: 'Starve a fever.' Reality: Your body needs energy to fight illness. While your appetite may be low, it is important to eat light, nutritious foods and stay hydrated.

Conclusion

Getting rid of a high temperature quickly and safely involves a combination of supportive home care and, when necessary, targeted medication. Prioritizing rest, staying well-hydrated, and using gentle cooling methods like lukewarm baths are cornerstones of effective fever management. Over-the-counter fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can provide relief from discomfort but must be used according to proper dosage guidelines and never with aspirin for children. Crucially, recognizing when a fever is serious and warrants professional medical attention is essential for protecting your health and well-being. Always be mindful of age-specific warning signs and consult a doctor if you are in any doubt.

References

• Mayo Clinic. (2024, June 25). Fever: First aid. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-fever/basics/art-20056685
• Better Health Channel. (n.d.). Fever. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/fever
• University of Rochester Medical Center. (2024, September 6). Understanding Fever: Why You Have One and What To Do. Retrieved from https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/publications/health-matters/understanding-fever-why-you-have-one-and-what-to-do
• Hackensack Meridian Health. (2020, September 17). When to Seek Care for a Fever. Retrieved from https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/healthu/2020/09/17/when-to-seek-care-for-a-fever
• Cleveland Clinic. (2022, October 14). 5 Methods to Safely Break a Fever. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/breaking-a-fever
• Healthline. (2025, July 21). Fever in Children & Babies: How to Treat. Retrieved from https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/conditions/fever-children
• WebMD. (2023, November 15). Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/fevers-causes-symptoms-treatments
• Regenerate Health Medical Center. (2020, August 1). How to Naturally Reduce A Fever. Retrieved from https://regeneratehealthmc.com/blog/how-to-naturally-reduce-a-fever/
• NHS Inform. (2024, October 29). Fever in adults. Retrieved from https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/fever-in-adults/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a high temperature in adults?

For adults, a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is generally considered a fever. Normal body temperature can vary, but this threshold is commonly used as a medical guideline.

Is it safe to give a child aspirin for a high temperature?

No. You should never give aspirin to a child or teenager for a fever, as it has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal condition. Use child-appropriate doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen instead, and consult a pediatrician.

Should I take a cold bath to lower my temperature quickly?

No, taking a cold bath or ice bath is not recommended. It can cause your blood vessels to constrict and trigger shivering, which actually works to increase your core body temperature. A lukewarm bath is a much safer and more effective option.

What kind of fluids should I drink when I have a fever?

Focus on clear fluids to stay hydrated. Good options include water, broth, or electrolyte-replacement drinks. Some herbal teas, like ginger or chamomile, can also be soothing and hydrating.

How long should I wait to see if a fever goes away on its own?

For healthy adults, if a fever is below 103°F and you are not experiencing other severe symptoms, you can typically wait 48 hours to see if it improves. However, you should consult a doctor if it lasts longer, or if you are in a high-risk group.

What are the signs that a high temperature is serious and requires a doctor?

Seek immediate medical care if a high temperature is accompanied by a severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, breathing difficulties, chest pain, seizure, or a rash. For infants and young children, any fever can be a cause for concern and warrants a call to the doctor.

Is it better to use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for a fever?

Both can be effective. Research suggests that ibuprofen might be slightly more effective for reducing fever in children, while both are comparable for adults. The best choice can depend on your medical history, so it's wise to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have other health concerns.