biology of infectious disease
infections
Fever in Adults
The best fever treatment is treatment of the cause. Because fever helps the body defend against infection and because fever itself is not dangerous (unless it is higher than about 106° F [41° C]), there is some debate as to whether fever should be routinely treated. However, people with a high fever generally feel much better when the fever is treated. Plus, people with a heart or lung disorder and those with dementia are considered to be at particular risk of dangerous complications, so when they have a fever, it should be treated. Drugs used to lower body temperature are called antipyretics. The most effective and widely used antipyretics areacetaminophenand nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such asaspirin,ibuprofen, andnaproxen. These drugs are taken according to the directions given on the container's label. Because many over-the-counter cold or flu preparations containacetaminophen, people must be careful not to takeacetaminophenand one or more of these preparations at the same time. Other cooling measures (such as cooling with a tepid water mist and using cooling blankets) are needed only if the temperature is about 106° F (41.1° C) or higher. Sponging with alcohol is avoided because alcohol can be absorbed through the skin and may have harmful effects. People who have a blood infection or who have abnormal vital signs (such as low blood pressure and a rapid pulse and breathing rate) are admitted to the hospital. 