The American Academy of Family Physicians defines a high fever as being 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Medically, fever is referred to as pyrexia, and an extremely high fever is known as hyperpyrexia. Some fevers resolve without treatment, and many resolve when the underlying cause is addressed, such as taking antibiotics for a bacterial infection. Several methods are commonly used to decrease an elevated body temperature.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is one of the primary medications used to treat high fever. It usually works quickly, although the fever may return in four to six hours. A typical adult dose is two 325mg regular-strength tablets or two 500mg extra-strength tablets. It is important to carefully read and follow the instructions when treating a child with acetaminophen to avoid overdose.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is another drug of choice for the treatment of high fever. This medicine usually begins to lower fever within an hour. As with acetaminophen, the fever may return in four to six hours. A typical adult dose is two 200mg tablets. The proper dosage for a child is dependent on age and weight; it is important to closely follow the label instructions.
Aspirin
Aspirin is usually effective in reducing a high fever in an adult. As with the other drug remedies, the fever may return in four to six hours if the cause is not addressed. A typical adult dose is two 325mg tablets or two 500mg extra-strength tablets. Children with a fever should not be given aspirin to avoid the possibility of a serious complication known as Reye's syndrome.
Lukewarm Bath
A child or adult with a high fever may benefit from a lukewarm bath. The bath should last for no more than 10 minutes. Cold water and ice should not be used. A lukewarm sponge bath may also be helpful. The sufferer should be towel-dried after the bath to avoid shivering, which can raise body temperature. Rubbing alcohol should not be used to treat a fever.
Fluids
The National Institutes of Health recommends drinking plenty of fluids to help combat a fever. Children may enjoy a Popsicle. Water, clear broth and gelatin are other common choices. Red gelatin and drinks should be avoided since they can cause unnecessary alarm should the fever-sufferer begin to vomit.
Rest
The Mayo Clinic recommends that people with fever get plenty of rest. This allows the body to recuperate and maintain a lower temperature than would be present if the individual was active and moving around.
