From the Research
For a sore throat and fever, a lukewarm shower is generally recommended. Taking an extremely cold shower might stress your body when it's already fighting an infection, while very hot showers could potentially raise your body temperature further when you already have a fever. A lukewarm shower can provide comfort by helping to relieve muscle aches and congestion while not putting additional stress on your system.
The provided evidence does not directly address the optimal shower temperature for sore throat and fever management. However, it discusses various aspects of pharyngitis diagnosis and treatment, including the use of antibiotics and symptomatic relief measures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
When considering showering with a sore throat and fever, it's essential to prioritize comfort and avoid exacerbating the condition. Stay hydrated before and after showering, and consider taking acetaminophen (like Tylenol) or ibuprofen (like Advil) as directed on the package to help reduce fever and sore throat pain 5. Limit your shower time to about 5-10 minutes to avoid excessive fatigue.
If your fever is high (above 102°F/39°C) or persists for more than three days, or if your symptoms worsen significantly, you should consult a healthcare provider as these could indicate a more serious infection requiring medical attention 3, 5.
Key considerations for managing sore throat and fever include: