It’s common for everyone to have a fever as it’s your body’s way to fight against an infection. If your fever is not higher than 39C (fevers higher than 39.4C can be dangerous and you should seek medical treatment immediately), here are some simple ways to help lower down your temperature at home while you’re resting.
1. Don’t sweat out your fever
While you’re having a fever, you’re bound to experience shivers. Shivers are your body’s way of creating heat to boost your temperature, so if you start to shiver excessively until you chatter, you should make yourself more comfortable by wrapping a thin blanket over yourself. But once your fever develops, avoid trying to “sweat the fever out” by wrapping yourself up in a blanket. So cool down, wear something cool and lightweight, and keep a blanket around in case if you start to feel cold again.
2. Drink plenty of water
In order to fight the fever, your body needs a lot of water and rest. Constantly drink a glass of water and try having a liquid diet (porridge or soup) instead. Nutrients in your food sometimes feed the bacteria in your system, so it’s recommended to starve out the sickness by fasting when you have a fever. A liquid diet made of fruit juices is a great idea as they’re rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which can reduce the severity of your fever. Try the smoothie diet to get your dose of healthy nutrients.
3. Eat chilled foods
On top of cooling your body down from the outside, you should consider eating cold or cooling foods to reduce the temperature of your body from the inside. These include chilled fruits, sorbet, popsicles and frozen yogurt. Just make sure to follow up with cough syrup if you have a sore throat or cough developing.
4. Take a cool dip
Taking a nice cool soak with give you some relief and treatment for your fever. Sit in a tub of tepid water for twenty minutes. Avoid using cold water as it can induce shock. Give yourself a nice healing bath my adding a few drops of herbal oils like tea tree oil or eucalyptus. And while you’re relaxing, why not treat yourself to a DIY Home Spa Treatment too.
5. Stay indoors
When you’re suffering from a fever, limit physical activity and rest indoors where it’s dry and the temperature won’t change. Change in temperature can cause more dizziness, especially if it gets warmer. So avoid going outside and stay inside to rest.
6. Take fever reducing medication
If your fever is making you uncomfortable or doesn’t seem to be getting any better, you should consider taking non-prescription antipyretic (fever reducing) medication like aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen. These drugs can also help with body aches and pain. If your fever has worsened since it’s started, you should see a doctor to get yourself checked for any infections.
