How to lower your body temperature and break a fever
An average adult's temperature ranges from 97.8°F to 99.0°F. Causes of fever vary greatly, stemming from infectious disease, heat stroke, hyperthyroidism, poisoning, some types of food, and even wearing tight, synthetic clothing.
For this post, we've put togeter some of the best ways to lower your body temperature at home. Please note that if your body temperature reaches or exceeds 103°F, call your doctor or call emergency medical services.
Tips to reduce high body temperature
- Drink plenty of water
Drinking 0.5 to 0.8 gallons of cool fluids per day is a good way to safely lower your body temperature and avoid dehydration.
- Eat foods with a high water content
Melon, watermelon, strawberries, celery, cucumber, and cauliflower are all good food options for when you're running a fever. You can eat these foods on their own, in a salad, or turn them into a smoothie with ice.
- Make a cold compress
Moisten a towel in cold water and wipe down your temples, the back of your neck, the insides of your elbows, your wrists, your feet, and the areas under your knees. Or, dip your feet into cold water for 15 minutes.
- Drink peppermint tea
Peppermint is known for its cooling properties. Prepare a hot or cold cup of peppermint tea and drink it throughout the day. Hot tea may make you feel hotter, but drinking hot liquids can actually help you sweat more, which will help to cool your body.
- Move less
Choose a cool place in which to sit or lie down. Movement increases body temperature, so try to be still for about 20 minutes. Remember to breathe deeply and slowly.
- Take fever-reducing medication
This includes paracetamol, aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Please note that aspirin should not be taken by children and teens with viral illnesses, as it can lead to Reye's Syndrome, which can be fatal. Be sure to read and follow the instructions of any medication you take.
Take your temperature every 15-20 minutes. You can watch our video on how to use the digital body thermometer correctly.
