How can I manage recurring fever with a potential cold?

From the Guidelines

To manage recurring fever with a potential cold, take ibuprofen 0.2g every 4-6 hours when the temperature is higher than 38.5 ℃, but no more than 4 times in 24 hours, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. When experiencing recurring fever, it is essential to prioritize rest, hydration, and appropriate medication to alleviate symptoms and support the immune system. Key considerations for managing fever include:

• Staying hydrated by drinking fluids regularly, but not exceeding 2 liters per day, to avoid dehydration 1
• Using antipyretics like ibuprofen or paracetamol to reduce fever and relieve discomfort, with paracetamol being the preferred choice for patients with COVID-19 until more evidence is available 1
• Getting plenty of rest to allow the immune system to fight the infection
• Using a cool compress or taking a lukewarm bath to help lower body temperature It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if the fever exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), lasts more than three days, or is accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, as recurring fevers might indicate a more serious condition requiring professional evaluation 1. Fevers are the body's natural defense mechanism against infections, and managing them appropriately can help alleviate symptoms and support recovery.

From the FDA Drug Label

For Arthritis Pain label • temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to: • minor pain of arthritis • muscular aches • backache • premenstrual and menstrual cramps • the common cold • headache • toothache • temporarily reduces fever Stop use and ask doctor if • pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days • fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days • new symptoms occur • redness or swelling is present PURPOSE Pain reliever/fever reducer

To manage recurring fever with a potential cold, you can use acetaminophen (PO) as a pain reliever/fever reducer. It temporarily reduces fever. However, if the fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days, you should stop use and ask a doctor 2, 2, 2.

From the Research

Managing Recurring Fever with a Potential Cold

To manage recurring fever with a potential cold, several strategies can be employed:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, tea, or soup, to help thin out mucus and soothe a sore throat 3.
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can help relieve congestion and coughing 3.
• Get plenty of rest to help your body fight off the infection 3.
• Use over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve headaches and body aches 4, 5.
• Try steam inhalation to help loosen mucus and reduce congestion 3.

Reducing Fever

To reduce fever, the following methods can be used:

• Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed to help reduce fever and relieve pain 4, 5.
• Apply a cool, damp cloth to your forehead or wrists to help cool down 3.
• Take a cool bath or shower to help bring down your body temperature 3.
• Use a fan to circulate air and help cool you down 3.

Preventing Fever Recurrence

To prevent fever recurrence during the same fever episode, the following method can be used:

• Administer rectal acetaminophen (10 mg/kg) every 6 hours until 24 hours after the first convulsion (if the fever remains >38.0°C) 6.

Additional Tips

Additional tips for managing a cold and reducing fever include:

• Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with others, to help prevent the spread of the infection 3.
• Avoiding over-the-counter cough and cold medications in children under the age of 4, as they can be harmful 3.
• Considering the use of prophylactic probiotics, zinc sulfate, or garlic to help reduce the frequency of colds 3.