A fever is a common symptom of many viral and bacterial infections, such as colds, flu, COVID-19, and others. It is your body’s way of fighting off the germs and raising your immune system’s activity. However, a high fever can also make you feel uncomfortable, weak, dehydrated, and restless. That’s why it’s important to know some home remedies that can help you lower your fever and feel better.
Here are some of the most effective and natural ways to reduce a fever at home:
- Drink plenty of fluids. Fever causes you to lose fluids through sweating and breathing faster. This can lead to dehydration, which can worsen your symptoms and make you more prone to complications. To prevent this, drink at least eight glasses of water a day, or more if you have a high fever. You can also drink other fluids, such as herbal teas, soups, broths, fruit juices, or sports drinks, to replenish your electrolytes and keep your throat moist.
- Sponge your body with lukewarm water. Sponging is a simple technique that can help lower your body temperature by evaporating the heat from your skin. You can use a washcloth or a sponge soaked in lukewarm water (not cold or hot) and gently wipe your forehead, neck, armpits, and groin areas. You can also take a lukewarm bath or shower to cool down your whole body. However, avoid using ice or alcohol on your skin, as they can constrict your blood vessels and trap the heat inside.
- Take over-the-counter medications. If your fever is above 102°F (38.9°C) or you have severe discomfort, you may need to take some medications to reduce it. The most common ones are acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), which are both safe and effective for adults and children. However, do not give aspirin to children under 18 years old, as it can cause a rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome. Also, follow the dosage instructions on the label and do not exceed the recommended amount.
- Eat nutritious food rich in vitamin C. When you have a fever, your body needs more energy and nutrients to fight off the infection. Eating healthy food can provide you with the essential vitamins and minerals that boost your immune system and speed up your recovery. Vitamin C is especially important, as it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce fever and prevent oxidative damage to your cells. Some of the best sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits, berries, kiwis, peppers, broccoli, spinach, and tomatoes.
- Wear comfortable clothing and bedding. Wearing too many layers of clothing or blankets can trap the heat in your body and raise your temperature even more. On the other hand, wearing too little can make you shiver and increase your metabolic rate, which also generates more heat. The best way to dress when you have a fever is to wear light and loose-fitting clothing that allows your skin to breathe and sweat freely. You can also adjust your bedding according to how you feel: add or remove blankets as needed to keep yourself comfortable.
These are some of the most effective home remedies for quick fever relief that you can try at home. However, remember that these are only meant to ease your symptoms and not to treat the underlying cause of your fever. If your fever persists for more than three days, is higher than 103°F (39.4°C), or is accompanied by other serious symptoms such as severe headache, rash, stiff neck, chest pain, or trouble breathing, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
