Fever In Adults

Fevers are a normal reaction to illness and inflammation. Fever reducing tips can be found in this video.

Fever in Adults

A fever is your body's normal reaction to illness or inflammation. When your temperature goes up, it's a sign that your body is doing what it should to protect you. Keep in mind that a fever is typically not dangerous—but it can make you feel miserable. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce your fever and help yourself feel better.

First things first: if you have a fever and are concerned about your health, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Here at The Urgency Room, we staff board-certified physicians who can provide a diagnosis and treatment plan. During your examination, if your Urgency Room healthcare provider finds no signs that your fever is from a dangerous or life-threatening problem, he or she will likely tell you that it’s okay to go home. However, sometimes the signs of a serious illness don't show up right away. If you have new or worsening symptoms, you may need to be seen again at The Urgency Room or by your primary doctor.

Dealing with a Fever at Home

Once your doctor has sent you home, you can take a look at this helpful list to get you started on the road to recovery. Additionally, this information is meant for adults experiencing a fever. If your child has a fever, you may need to take different steps.

Fill Prescriptions

Make sure to fill any prescriptions the doctor gave you right away, and take your medication as directed. Since most infections are caused by a virus, antibiotics won't help—but your doctor may prescribe other medication.

Finish Antibiotics

If your doctor does determine that your fever is due to something besides a virus, you may have received antibiotics. Make sure to finish the entire course as directed—even if you no longer have a fever.

Take Care of Your Body

Get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids—especially water. Additionally, the clothes or blankets that you have on won't change your fever, so feel free to do whatever is comfortable for you.

Have a Lukewarm Bath

Fevers can often make you feel quite cold or hot. If you’re feeling too warm, bathing or sponging in lukewarm water may provide some relief and help you feel better.

Use Over-the-Counter Medications

Taking over-the-counter fever medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can bring your temperature down and may help you feel more comfortable. Be sure to read and follow the package directions—they’ll explain how much you should take and when to take it. Ask your doctor if you have any questions, and remember that it's important that you don't drink alcohol while you have a fever or are taking pain medications.

When to See a Doctor

Come back to The Urgency Room if you’re not getting better after three to five days, or you experience any other symptoms that worry you. Return right away if you experience the following:

• Any of the symptoms you have get much worse
• Feelings of sickness
• You're too weak to get up
• New symptoms appear, such as abdominal pain or chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Severe headache
• Vomiting—so much that you can't keep fluids or medications down
• Confusion or unusual drowsiness
• Seizure or convulsion

Your Urgency Room doctor may have told you to follow up at your clinic—be sure to call right away to make an appointment. Even if you're feeling better, it's a good idea to check in with your primary physician. If you have any trouble getting in to see your regular doctor, come back to one of our convenient locations for a follow-up visit.

Whenever you're concerned about your health, just stop by The Urgency Room. Our experienced doctors and staff are here for you. We hope you feel better soon!