Fever: what to do right now

Fever is your body's warning light — usually a response to infection. Most fevers aren't dangerous and help your immune system fight bugs. But a fever can feel awful and sometimes needs attention. This short guide gives clear, practical steps you can use at home and quick signs for when to contact a clinician.

Home care that works

Start with basic comfort: rest, fluids, and lighter clothing. Drink water, broth, or electrolyte drinks if you’re losing sweat. Dress in breathable layers so you can remove clothing as your temperature changes. A lukewarm washcloth on the forehead or neck helps people feel better; avoid cold baths or alcohol rubs — they shock the body and don’t help reduce core temperature safely.

If you use medicine, stick to common choices: acetaminophen or ibuprofen reduce fever and relieve aches. Read the label and follow dosing instructions. For children and babies, always check the pediatric dosing instructions or call your provider — dosing depends on age and weight. Never give aspirin to children or teens because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

When to worry and call a doctor

Some situations need medical attention fast. Call your doctor or emergency services if you or someone you’re caring for has any of these: a baby under 3 months with a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, persistent high fever over 104°F (40°C), fever lasting more than 48–72 hours, severe headache or neck stiffness, repeated vomiting, difficulty breathing, blue lips or confusion, or a new, spreading rash. Also seek care after a fever if there are fits (seizures) or if the person looks very sick or hard to wake.

Fever after recent surgery, in people with weakened immune systems, or while on chemotherapy needs quick medical evaluation. If you’re unsure, a phone call to your clinic for advice is a smart, low-stress step.

Fever can come from many causes: common colds, flu, urinary tract infections, ear infections, or other bacterial and viral illnesses. Sometimes fever shows up with other symptoms like sore throat, cough, body pain, or gastro symptoms. Watch how symptoms change — that helps your clinician figure out the cause.

Looking for more reading? Our site has practical articles that often appear with fever topics, such as guides on safe pain relief (Ketorolac Explained), herbal immune support (Umckaloabo for Immune Support), and safe use of common medicines (Phenergan: Safe Use, Benefits, and Side Effects). Those reads explain risks, benefits, and safe use so you can make better choices.

Final tip: trust how the person looks and acts, not just the number on the thermometer. A mild fever plus normal activity is different from the same temperature with severe symptoms. If you’re ever unsure, reach out to a healthcare professional — quick questions can prevent a lot of worry.