Ethan Rhodes
Fever, also known as hyperthermia or pyrexia, is a rise in body temperature above the normal range, usually caused by an infection. While fever is often harmless, a high fever can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. Treatment for high fever in a hospital setting typically involves addressing the underlying cause, which could be a bacterial or viral infection, an injury, or another health problem. Medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be administered to help lower the body temperature, but in some cases, the fever may be left untreated to allow the body to fight off the infection.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to seek medical attention | - Temperature is over 40°C or 104°F. |
- Temperature is 103°F or higher for adults.
- Temperature is 102°F or higher for pregnant women.
- Temperature is 102°F for more than 1 day for babies between 3 to 6 months old.
- Temperature is 100.4°F for babies younger than 3 months old.
- Temperature is over 106.7°F or 41.5°C (hyperpyrexia).
- Fever lasts for more than 3 days.
- Fever is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, neck stiffness, skin rash, rapid heart rate, chills, muscle spasms, drowsiness, confusion, severe headache, hallucinations, etc. | | Treatment options | - Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) and ibuprofen (e.g. Advil, Motrin).
- Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Antibiotics for mild bacterial infections.
- Surgery for chronic tonsillitis.
- Plenty of rest, fluids, and light foods. | | Considerations | - Do not give aspirin to children as it may trigger Reye's syndrome.
- Do not overdress patients as it may increase body temperature.
- Do not use mercury thermometers.
- Fevers can be beneficial in reducing the number of microbes causing the illness. |
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What You'll Learn
Administer over-the-counter medication, e.g. acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Administering over-the-counter medication is a common way to treat a high fever. Acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) and ibuprofen are two medications that can help reduce a fever. Both are widely available without a prescription, although a doctor may prescribe them to treat certain conditions.
Acetaminophen is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) that works by changing the way the body senses pain and by cooling the body. It comes in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, liquids, and extended-release tablets, and can be taken with or without food. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed 4000 mg per day. Patients should be cautious about combining acetaminophen with other medications for pain, coughs, fever, and colds, and should always consult their doctor or pharmacist if they are unsure. Additionally, acetaminophen should not be taken with excessive alcohol consumption, and patients with liver disease should not take it.
Ibuprofen is another over-the-counter medication that can be used to reduce fever and relieve pain. The dosage for ibuprofen is typically based on the patient's weight, so it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist for guidance on the appropriate dosage.
For high fevers, especially in young infants, medical advice should be sought. Hospital admission may be necessary for testing and treatment, and medication may be prescribed based on the underlying cause of the fever.
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Intake of fluids, light foods, and adequate rest
While in hospital, treating a high fever involves managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. One of the key symptoms of a fever is dehydration, which can be managed by encouraging the intake of fluids. Fever can also reduce appetite, so it is important to eat light, nutritious foods that are easy to digest. Getting adequate rest is also crucial for recovery.
Intake of Fluids
The intake of fluids is essential to prevent dehydration, which is a common complication of fever. Patients should be encouraged to drink plenty of water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear liquids such as broth or juice. If the patient is unable to drink, intravenous fluids may be administered to ensure adequate hydration.
Light Foods
Fever can often decrease appetite, so it is important to offer light, easily digestible foods that provide nourishment without being too heavy or difficult to consume. Suitable options include soups, broths, steamed vegetables, soft fruits, yoghurt, and porridge. These foods provide essential nutrients and help maintain energy levels without overwhelming the patient's reduced appetite.
Adequate Rest
Getting plenty of rest is vital when treating a high fever. The body needs time to heal and recover, so patients should be encouraged to rest in a comfortable, quiet environment. Reducing external stimuli, such as noise and bright lights, can help promote restful sleep. Additionally, providing comfortable bedding and pillows, as well as maintaining a cool and well-ventilated room, can enhance the quality of rest.
In addition to fluid intake, light foods, and adequate rest, medication may be administered to help reduce fever and manage associated symptoms. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) and ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin IB) can help lower body temperature and alleviate discomfort. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and be cautious of potential side effects, especially with long-term use or high doses.
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Avoid antibiotics for viral infections
Fever is a rise in body temperature above the normal temperature, which is usually caused by an infection. Fevers can be caused by bacterial or viral infections. Fevers caused by viral infections should not be treated with antibiotics because antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Antibiotics are only effective in treating or preventing bacterial infections.
Antibiotics are normally recommended if you're having a type of surgery that carries a high risk of infection. For example, you may be prescribed antibiotics if you're going to have eye surgery, such as cataract surgery or glaucoma surgery. Antibiotics may also be recommended for a wound that has a high chance of becoming infected, such as animal or human bites, or a wound that has come into contact with soil or faeces.
Additionally, antibiotics may be prescribed for people who have an infection that keeps returning or is causing distress or an increased risk of complications. However, in cases of mild bacterial infection, it is usually best to allow your immune system to fight off the infection rather than rely on antibiotics. Many mild bacterial infections get better on their own without the use of antibiotics.
Overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, meaning they will become less effective or even ineffective in treating future infections. Antibiotics can also interact negatively with other medications, such as the contraceptive pill and alcohol. Therefore, it is important to only take antibiotics as directed by a healthcare professional and never share antibiotics prescribed to you with others.
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Seek immediate medical attention for hyperpyrexia (41.5°C or more)
Hyperpyrexia is a life-threatening medical emergency that demands urgent medical attention. If a fever is left untreated, it can lead to long-term complications, organ damage, and even death. If you or someone you know is experiencing hyperpyrexia, seek immediate medical attention.
Hyperpyrexia is diagnosed using a thermometer. A temperature reading of 41.5°C (106.7°F) or above indicates hyperpyrexia. While seeking medical attention, it is important to try to lower the fever. Removing any tight or extra clothing and sponging with tepid water or taking a cool bath can help.
When you reach the hospital, the doctor will work quickly to diagnose what is causing the high fever. They will take a medical and travel history, check your physical condition, and run several tests. The doctor will then work to safely lower the fever before serious complications occur. Treatment may depend on the underlying cause, which could be a severe bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection.
It is important to note that a fever is not an illness but a symptom of an underlying cause. Fevers can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, and in some cases, they can indicate a serious illness. Therefore, it is always recommended to seek medical attention if you are concerned about a fever, especially in children.
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Treat the underlying cause, e.g. chronic tonsillitis may require surgery
Fever is a symptom and not an illness, so it is important to treat the underlying cause. For example, chronic tonsillitis may require surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy). Fevers caused by viral illnesses should not be treated with antibiotics, as they are ineffective against viruses. In cases of mild bacterial infection, it is usually best to allow the immune system to fight the infection, rather than resorting to antibiotics.
If the fever is accompanied by other symptoms, such as unusual drowsiness, hallucinations, vomiting, neck stiffness, skin rash, rapid heart rate, chills, muscle spasms, or a severe headache, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a life-threatening illness.
If you are experiencing a high fever, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to cool down your body and prevent dehydration. Water and clear broth are good choices, while infants under 6 months should only have breast milk or formula. Dress in light clothing, keep the room temperature cool, and rest. Activity can raise your body temperature.
Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help lower your temperature, but they should be used according to the label instructions or as recommended by a healthcare provider. High doses or long-term use of these medications may cause liver or kidney damage, and acute overdoses can be fatal. If your fever does not improve after taking medication, contact your healthcare provider.
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