What to do for a fever of 105?

From the Guidelines

A fever of 105°F (40.6°C) is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, and the most appropriate course of action is to call 911 or go to the emergency room right away. While waiting for medical help, it is recommended to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) at the appropriate dose based on age and weight (typically 325-650mg for adults every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 3000mg daily) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) at 200-400mg every 6 hours for adults, as suggested by 1.

Key Considerations

• Remove excess clothing and use lukewarm (not cold) water to sponge the skin, particularly in the armpits and groin areas, to help lower the body temperature.
• Stay hydrated by drinking cool fluids to prevent dehydration.
• This high temperature can cause serious complications, including seizures, brain damage, or organ failure if left untreated, as noted in 1.
• The fever indicates that the body is fighting a severe infection or condition, and professional medical evaluation is necessary to determine and treat the underlying cause.

Importance of Immediate Medical Attention

• Do not delay seeking emergency medical care for a fever this high, especially in children, elderly people, or those with compromised immune systems, as emphasized in 1 and 1.
• The risk of serious bacterial infections and other complications is higher in these populations, and prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes.

Underlying Cause Determination

• A thorough medical evaluation, including diagnostic tests and physical examination, is necessary to determine the underlying cause of the fever, as discussed in 1.
• This will guide the appropriate treatment and management of the condition, and prevent potential complications.

From the Research

Fever Management

To manage a fever of 105, consider the following options:

• Nonpharmacologic treatment, such as environmental measures to enhance dissipation of body heat and sponging, as mentioned in 2
• Pharmacologic treatment, including:
  • Acetaminophen, which is considered first-line antipyresis therapy and is relatively free of adverse effects 2, 3
  • Ibuprofen, which can be considered as second-line antipyretic therapy 2, 3
  • Aspirin, which is not recommended for children due to the risk of Reye's syndrome 4, 5, 6

Important Considerations

• Fever is an important diagnostic and prognostic clinical sign that may have beneficial effects for the host, and body temperatures of ≤ 41 degrees C (105.8 degrees F) are relatively harmless 2
• However, treating fever may be necessary to alleviate patient discomfort, prevent adverse sequelae, and reduce the risk of seizures 2
• The use of aspirin in children has been associated with an increased risk of Reye's syndrome, and its use has declined in the United States 4, 5, 6