Do you or your loved one have a fever? The good news is that you probably have nothing to worry about. Fevers are extremely common and often occur due to a virus like a cold or the flu, although they are more common in people who have the flu. They usually occur when the body is working to fight an infection to protect itself. Like other symptoms of a cold and the flu, a fever is a sign that something out of the ordinary is happening in your body. Acetaminophen is a fever reducer, and is present in AXIV Daytime and AXIV NightTime.
6 things that can help lower a fever
- Rest
Activity can raise your body temperature. You need to rest to recover and lower the fever. Getting enough sleep can also help maintain the integrity of your immune system, so your body can fight the viruses that cause fever, such as a cold or the flu. Call a doctor if your fever is accompanied by severe headache, neck stiffness, difficulty breathing, or other unusual signs or symptoms. - Hydration
Having a fever can cause fluid loss and dehydration. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids when you have a fever. Adequate fluid intake is often recommended as part of a treatment plan for infections that cause fever, such as the flu. - Cool environment
Keeping the room temperature cool and sleeping with only a sheet or light blanket can help you stay cooler. If your child has a fever, adjust the temperature of the house or the bedroom to help them stay cool. - Light clothing
When trying to reduce fever, it’s also a good idea to dress in light clothing, as lighter clothing can have a cooling effect. It has been reported that very warm clothing can raise a child’s body temperature, even if they are not ill. - Warm sponge bath
Placing a damp, cool cloth on the forehead and back of the neck can help alleviate fever symptoms. You may also want to give a sponge bath with cool water, focusing on areas of high heat such as the armpits and groin. Typically, this method, known as a warm sponge bath, is done for about 5 minutes. Like staying in a cool environment and wearing light clothing, this physical measure to reduce fever may not be as effective as fever-reducing medications. - Over-the-counter fever-reducing medications
Fever is not a pleasant symptom to experience. Chills, shivers, and headaches can become uncomfortable enough to want relief. Have over-the-counter medications with active ingredients that can reduce fever on hand. Acetaminophen, for example, is an over-the-counter medication approved for use against fever, even in children. Acetaminophen is a commonly used drug to reduce fever that also relieves minor aches and pains. But when you have a cold or the flu, there may be more symptoms than you need relief from, such as cough or nasal congestion.
Many over-the-counter cold and flu medications treat multiple symptoms, including fever, such as AXIV DayTime and AXIV NightTime. Be sure to identify any other symptoms you may be experiencing along with the fever, if any, so you can get the relief you need.