Fox Valley Family Physicians: Fever

Fever

Fever is the imbalance between heat production and heat loss. The most common cause of fever is an infection. Generally, to lower a fever, use Tylenol and/or ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), increase fluids and give a tepid bath if the fever is higher than 103.5. Never use a cold bath--they cause shivering and speed up heat production and are also very uncomfortable.

Treating fever in children

For a fever up to 101:

For infants any fever of 100 or above needs an office visit.

Use Tylenol.

Increase fluids.

Observe for tears and urinary output.

For a fever above 101, same as above and:

Use ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) every 6 hours. Alternate the ibuprofen and Tylenol. Example: Motrin at 6, Tylenol at 9, Motrin at 12, Tylenol at 3, etc.

Tepid baths if the fever is 103 or above. May need to remain in water 15 to 20 minutes.

Treating fever in adults

Fever up to 101: Use Tylenol.

Fever above 101: Use Tylenol/ibuprofen and increase fluids.

Call us if

The fever lasts longer than 72 hours (except for infants; for infants, see instructions above).

The patient shows signs of dehydration.

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