Fever in Adults Treatments

1. Take Temperature

• Temperature can be taken orally, rectally, or under the armpit.

• A person is considered feverish if oral temperature is above 100º F (37.8 C) or rectal temperature is above 100.7º F (38.2 C). Temperatures measured under the armpit are not considered as accurate and can be as much as 1º F lower than an oral measurement.

• A temperature below 100.4º (38 C) is considered a low-grade or mild fever. It means that the body is responding to an infection.

2. Treat Fever, if Necessary

No treatment is necessary for a mild fever unless the person is uncomfortable. If the fever is 102º or higher:

• Give an over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) as directed on the label. Warning: Do NOT give aspirin to anyone age 18 or younger unless directed to do so by a doctor.

• Bathing or sponging in lukewarm water may bring the temperature down. Do not use cold water or alcohol.

• Have the person wear light clothing and use a light cover or sheet -- overdressing can make body temperature go up. If the person gets chills, use an extra blanket until they go away.

3. Give Liquids

• Have the person drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

4. When to Contact a Doctor

Seek medical help immediately if the person has:

• A history of serious illness such as AIDS, heart disease, cancer, or diabetes, or if the person is taking immunosuppressant drugs

• A high fever that doesn't respond to fever-reducing medicine

• Been exposed to extremely hot weather and feels hot but is not sweating

• A stiff neck, is confused, or has trouble staying awake

• Severe pain in the lower abdomen

• Severe stomach pain, vomits repeatedly, or has severe diarrhea

• Skin rashes, blisters, or a red streak on an arm or leg

• A severe sore throat, severe swelling of the throat, or a persistent earache

• Pain with urination, back pain, or shaking chills.

• A severe cough, coughs up blood, or has trouble breathing

5. Follow Up

Contact a doctor if the high body temperature lasts for more than three days or gets worse.