What is what to do when you have fever?

When you have a fever, it's important to focus on resting and staying comfortable to allow your body to fight off the underlying illness. Here's what you should do:

  • Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to conserve energy and focus on healing. Avoid strenuous activities. More information can be found here.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids like water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions to prevent dehydration. Dehydration can worsen fever symptoms. More information can be found here.

  • Over-the-Counter Medications: You can take over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to help lower your temperature. Follow the dosage instructions carefully. More information can be found here.

  • Cooling Measures: Use a cool compress on your forehead or take a lukewarm bath to help lower your body temperature. Avoid using ice water, as it can cause shivering, which can raise your temperature. More information can be found here.

  • Monitor Your Temperature: Take your temperature regularly to monitor your fever's progress. More information can be found here.

  • When to See a Doctor: Seek medical attention if your fever is very high (over 103°F or 39.4°C), lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like severe headache, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, chest pain, abdominal pain, seizures, confusion, or a rash. Also, consult a doctor if you have underlying health conditions. More information can be found here.