A fever is an increase in the body’s baseline temperature. The definition of fever varies depending on how the temperature is checked. In general, a rectal temperature of 100.4 F or higher or an oral temperature of 99.5 F are considered fevers. The mechanisms for the initiation of a fever are a complex interplay between pyrogens, which are molecules released by bacteria and other microbes. They are also released during inflammatory processes that stimulate the hypothalamus, the body’s thermostat, to raise the body’s temperature. As such, fevers are part of the body’s immune system, since the temperature elevation diminishes the ability of microorganisms to replicate. A fever also alerts you to the present of inflammatory conditions that might require medical attention. Even though fevers can be beneficial, they can cause generalized discomfort and increase the chances of dehydration as heat production induces excessive fluid losses through evaporation. Because of this, it may be important to calm a fever.
Step 1
Identify the cause. The most common cause of fevers is infection; according to MedlinePlus, these can include pneumonia, bone infections or osteomyelitis, and skin infections such as cellulitis or abscesses. Other common causes of fever include upper respiratory infections such as colds, ear infections, sinusitis and strep throat; stomach infections such as gastroenteritis; and urinary tract infections. Inflammatory processes can also trigger a fever response, and these include autoimmune conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis; and inflammatory bowel disease, for example ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Tumors and other cancers can also cause a fever. Certain medicines can induce a febrile response, a condition called drug fever. See a physician to identify the causes of fever and appropriate treatment.
Step 2
Lower the body's temperature if the fever is causing significant discomfort or dehydration. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you should start by removing excess clothing to allow heat dissipation. Try to keep the room at a normal, ambient temperature, but if is too warm, you can try using a fan. A sponge bath or a warm compress can also help dissipate some of the excess heat. Do not use cold water or alcohol rubs, since they can cause shivering, which can then increase the body’s temperature. Antipyretics, which are over-the-counter fever reducers, can also help. The two most commonly used antipyretics are acetaminophen and ibuprofen. They both work by regulating substances in the hypothalamus that trigger the fever response. You can take acetaminophen every four hours and ibuprofen every six hours. If they are for a febrile child, make sure you give the appropriate weight-based dose, both to effectively treat the fever and to avoid overdosing the child. Even though aspirin can also work in adults to reduce fevers, you should not use aspirin in children, since the interaction of aspirin with certain viruses such as influenza can lead to a condition called Reye syndrome, which can cause brain and liver damage.
Step 3
Seek emergency medical treatment for elevated fevers. Even though fevers can be beneficial in the body’s fight against infection, extremely high fevers can be potentially dangerous. For example, heat stroke, a dangerous temperature elevation greater than 104 F with accompanying changes in mental state, can lead to multiple internal organ damage. Likewise, a condition known as malignant hyperthermia, which results after administration of certain anesthesia drugs, can raise the body’s temperature up to 106 F. Treatment of these conditions involves rapid lowering of the body’s temperature with cooling blankets and ice packs to protect the brain and other vital organs.
Things You'll Need
- Thermometer
- Fever-reducing medicines
- Warm compress
- Warm water
