The Kenton Bridge Medical Centre: High Temperature
High temperature is a sign of infection. This symptom needs to be treated even in the case of colds or virus infections where antibiotics are not needed.

Very young children may get a 'febrile convulsion' from a high temperature and it is very important therefore for parents to take steps to reduce the temperature.

Treating High Temperature: There are four  ways to reduce a high temperature.

  1. Drink lots of fluids (water, soup, fruit juice)
  2. Sponge the skin with a luke warm (not hot) sponge or face towel.
  3. Paracetamol or aspirin (or aspirin like drugs such as ibuprofen) * see note below
  4. Cool the room down (with a fan if needed) and take off clothes.
  • Aspirin should not be used in children under 12 years old.
  • Aspirin and aspirin-like drugs (ibuprofen, Nurofen) should be avoided in people with asthma.

   If there is no improvement within 48 hours you will need to consult a doctor.

 

Back     

Home