Relieving Fever Symptoms

Fever is one of the ways that the body fights infections.  When the body temperature rises, germs and viruses can be weakened and killed off.  Other symptoms can accompany a fever to make you feel miserable.

Sweats and Chills

If you experience chills and shivering you need to warm up your body with hot broth and hot drinks.  Keep warm until the fever breaks.  High fever can also cause discomfort that can be relieved by taking a lukewarm shower or bath.  A lukewarm temperature will give more relief and is better for you than a cold temperature.

Aches and Pains

The general aches and pains that accompany a fever can be relieved by taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen for adults and older children.  If you have severe headaches or pains and the fever lasts for more than three days you should contact your doctor.  Aspirin should never be given to children under 18 or pregnant women due to possible serious side effects.

Dehydration

Dehydration can occur very quickly in infants and the elderly.  When there is fever you should make sure the patient takes in adequate liquids to prevent dehydration and loss of electrolytes.  Sports drinks and pediatric drinks can be purchased for this purpose.  Otherwise, water, soups and broths, teas and juices are the liquids to dispense.

Herbal teas that contain active ingredients like chamomile, elder flower, ginseng, ginger and Echinacea are traditionally used when there is fever from a cold or flu.  Teas from the mint family, like peppermint, spearmint and catnip are useful when there is a fever accompanied by digestive upset.  Ginger ale made with real ginger flavoring is another herbal drink that is useful for both fever and stomach upset.  If vomiting is constant or severe, contact a doctor for advice.

Head and Chest Congestion

When fever comes from a respiratory infection like cold or flu, head and chest congestion can be uncomfortable and interfere with sleeping.  Reduce congestion by using an inhalant of eucalyptus essential oil in a humidifier.  Chest rubs with eucalyptus as an ingredient can also be used.  Ginger and peppermint tea can help to clear out clogged airways.