What’s the Best Way to Treat a Fever at Home?

A fever is usually a warning sign of an infection or another underlying health issue. While fevers are common in both adults and children, they can lead to more serious complications if not properly managed.

At Primary Care Walk-In Clinic, our highly skilled medical team offers same-day diagnostic evaluations for fevers that won’t break on their own.

Our providers also offer the guidance parents need to care for young children with a high fever to lower risk factors for seizures and other severe complications.

6 fever-fighting tips to use at home

Here are a few things to remember when using home remedies to treat a fever in yourself or your child:

1. Use a quality thermometer

Many types of thermometers are available on the market these days, including digital thermometers that quickly measure your body temperature.

Choose a good-quality thermometer and make sure you know how to use it properly. In very young children, taking temperatures rectally is generally the most accurate method. You can also get reliable results using an oral thermometer if used correctly.

2. Know when to seek medical attention

Not every fever requires medical intervention, but there are circumstances where you should seek the advice of our medical team.

Adults with a fever of 103℉ or higher or with a fever that persists for more than three days should speak with our physicians. Kids with fever who also show symptoms like listlessness, irritability, and vomiting need a medical evaluation.

3. Encourage lots of fluids

Those with a fever may feel too fatigued to do much of anything, but it’s important that they get plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. 

While drinking water is ideal for keeping your tissues hydrated, you can also consume fluids like broth, juices, and tea. Children may benefit from sports drinks containing electrolytes, essential minerals that play a role in your body’s sweat, urine, and blood production.

4. Sleep it off

Sleep supports fever recovery because it helps your body recharge after working hard to fight off an infection.

Try to rest as much as possible throughout the day, even if you can’t sleep, and avoid strenuous activities until your fever breaks. You should also go to bed at a time that ensures 8-9 hours of sleep.

5. Cool yourself down

A cool compress can help break a fever. You can place a washcloth dampened with cold water across your forehead or soak in a lukewarm bath to bring down your body temperature. It’s also wise to wear lightweight clothing and have a fan nearby so you don’t overheat.

Any time you feel chilled or start to shiver, your fever can rise. Remove the compress right away and use extra blankets to keep yourself warm.

6. Use over-the-counter fever reducers

When a fever persists, you can take over-the-counter (OTC) medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen to treat it.

Be sure to follow the dosing directions on the package, especially if you’re giving medicine to a child. If you’re not sure what medications to use in infants and toddlers, check with your child’s pediatrician before medicating them at home.

To learn more fever-reducing tips, call the Primary Care Walk-In Medical Clinic in Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, or Gilbert, Arizona, or visit as a walk-in today. You can also book a consultation online.