Fever: How to Cool Down When You Heat Up

In this article:

• What Causes a Fever and What are the Symptoms?
• When is a Fever too High?
• Practical Fever Management at Home
• When to See a Doctor About Fever Symptoms

What Causes a Fever and What are the Symptoms?

Fever is a common symptom of bacterial and viral infections. Examples include infections that cause colds and flu.

Typical fever symptoms include:

• shivering
• sweating
• fatigue (tiredness)
• headache
• flushed complexion or hot skin
• body aches
• faster heartbeat
• general weakness

Sickness isn’t always the reason you get a fever. Fever can also be caused by reactions to medicines or immunisations, or certain medical conditions.

How Does a Fever Work?

Your body temperature is controlled by the hypothalamus. Think of this part of your brain as a thermostat – when you’re healthy, the hypothalamus sets your body to a normal temperature of about 37C.

But when you’re sick with an infection, your immune system releases chemicals that make the hypothalamus increase your body temperature.

This higher temperature helps your immune system in several ways:

• Inhibits pathogen growth: Many bacteria and viruses struggle to survive at elevated body temperatures.
• Boosts immune response: Fever stimulates immune cells to respond more effectively, improving your body’s ability to clear infections.

When is a Fever too High?

Determining fever severity is crucial in fever management and knowing when professional care is necessary.

• Low-grade (mild): 37.3 to 38°C. Your body temperature is slightly elevated showing mild activation of your immune system.
• Moderate-grade: 38.1to 39°C.
• High-grade: 39.1 to 41°C – contact your doctor as soon as possible if you have a fever over 40​​°C.

Practical Fever Management at Home

To help alleviate fever discomfort:

• Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration
• Get plenty of rest
• Keep the room at a comfortable temperature

In case you are feeling too hot and not experiencing chills:

• Stay cool by wearing light clothing and keep bedding light
• Place a cool washcloth against your forehead

Consider fever-relieving medication

You could take pain relief medicines like paracetamol or ibuprofen (such as Nurofen) to help reduce your fever.

Nurofen contains ibuprofen, a compound that targets the chemicals involved in inflammation and pain (prostaglandins). Aside from helping to relieve pain and inflammation, Nurofen can also help to reduce fevers and associated discomfort.

Always use as directed and consult a healthcare provider if unsure. Some cold and flu medicines may contain paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always check the ingredients to make sure you don’t exceed the maximum daily limit.

When to See a Doctor About Fever Symptoms

Consult with your doctor or pharmacist at any stage if you are unsure, or feel worried or concerned about yours, or your child’s, fever symptoms.

Seek urgent medical attention:

• Children under 3 months of age with a fever
• A person of any age with a fever, headache, stiff neck, or a rash that doesn’t blanch (fade) when pressed
• A person of any age with a fever who experiences unexpected or unusual symptoms like hallucinations, altered speech, confusion or irritability

This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.

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