Remedies for a High Temperature Fever of 103
The presence of a fever usually indicates that some sort of illness is attacking the body. MayoClinic.com points out that unless the temperature reaches or exceeds 103 degrees Fahrenheit it is not dangerous. When a person has a temperature this high, treatment can be beneficial. When other serious symptoms accompany the high fever, the individual should seek medical attention, especially if attempts at reducing the fever have no effect.
Cold Drinks
A fever can cause fluid loss and dehydration, according to MayoClinic.com 1. Drinking beverages can reduce the risk of this complication. Cold drinks can even help lower the body temperature. Ice water, cold juice and even sports drinks can replenish fluids and cool the body.
- A fever can cause fluid loss and dehydration, according to MayoClinic.com 1.
- Cold drinks can even help lower the body temperature.
Be Still
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Running, playing and even walking elevate an individual's body temperature. It is best to minimize physical exertion until the fever has dropped. FamilyDoctor.org recommends keeping the room temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature isn't hot enough to cause a spike in body temperature and it isn't cool enough to make chilling worse if chills accompany the fever.
- Running, playing and even walking elevate an individual's body temperature.
- This temperature isn't hot enough to cause a spike in body temperature and it isn't cool enough to make chilling worse if chills accompany the fever.
Stay Uncovered
A fever is often accompanied by chills. Piling on blankets can raise the body temperature and should be avoided. FamilyDoctor.org suggests that when necessary, blankets can be used to provide warmth for the chills but they should be removed as soon as the symptom subsides. Dressing lightly and covering with a light sheet are better options for regulating temperature.
- A fever is often accompanied by chills.
- Piling on blankets can raise the body temperature and should be avoided.
Tepid Baths
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Soak in a lukewarm bath for five to 10 minutes at a time. This may be unpleasant but it can be highly effective in dropping your body temperature rapidly. MotherNature.com warns against using bath water that is so cool it causes shivering. The water should feel slightly warm but not as warm as would normally be used. If the water causes shivering the body temperature can rise. The bath can be repeated every few hours or as soon as the body temperature goes up. An alternative to a full bath is to sponge lukewarm water onto the body or place wet cloths on the forehead, back of the neck and chest.
- Soak in a lukewarm bath for five to 10 minutes at a time.
- An alternative to a full bath is to sponge lukewarm water onto the body or place wet cloths on the forehead, back of the neck and chest.
Fever Reducer
MotherNature.com recommends using an over-the-counter fever reducer when other methods of lowering the temperature are failing. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen are effective choices but avoid aspirin, especially in children due to the risk of a rare disease Reye's syndrome. FamilyDoctor.org points out that this disease can lead to death.
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References
- MayoClinic.com: Fever: Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Family Doctor: Fever in Infants and Children
- American Academy of Pediatrics. Febrile seizures. Updated November 30, 2017
- National Institutes of Health. Hyperthermia: Too Hot For Your Health.
- American Academy of Pediatrics. When to call the pediatrician: fever. Updated November 21, 2015
- National Institutes of Health: MedlinePlus. Fever.
Writer Bio
Sarah Harding has written stacks of research articles dating back to 2000. She has consulted in various settings and taught courses focused on psychology. Her work has been published by ParentDish, Atkins and other clients. Harding holds a Master of Science in psychology from Capella University and is completing several certificates through the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association.