What should I do if an adult has a fever of 38.2°C?
Jan 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. Fever is a pathological rise in body temperature and is a common symptom, classified into low-grade, moderate, high, and hyperpyrexia. If an adult has a fever of 38.2°C, this is considered a moderate fever. Since the temperature does not reach 38.5°C, it is not recommended to take antipyretic medications. Instead, it is advised to normalize body temperature through daily care and physical cooling methods.
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. Fever is a pathological rise in body temperature and is a common symptom, classified into low-grade, moderate, high, and hyperpyrexia. If an adult has a fever of 38.2°C, it falls under moderate fever. Since the temperature has not reached 38.5°C, taking antipyretic medications is not recommended. Instead, patients are advised to normalize their body temperature through daily care and physical cooling methods.
1. Daily Care
If a patient develops a fever of 38.2°C, it indicates abnormal regulation by the body's temperature center. It is recommended that patients develop healthy habits to aid recovery. Drinking plenty of warm water helps prevent dehydration caused by fluid loss due to fever. Patients should consume light, nutritious, and easily digestible foods such as bone soup, fish soup, and steamed eggs. They should maintain regular sleep patterns with approximately eight hours of sleep per night. Attention should be paid to weather changes, and clothing should be adjusted promptly to avoid catching a chill.
2. Physical Cooling
Physical cooling methods are effective. A warm, damp towel can be used to wipe areas such as the head, armpits, and neck to promote heat dissipation. Applying a cooling patch to the forehead can assist in reducing body temperature. Additionally, a cold-water-filled ice pack may be placed at the back of the patient’s neck.
Note: If the above measures fail to effectively control the fever and the body temperature rises above 38.5°C, the patient should seek medical attention promptly. Under a doctor’s guidance, medications such as ibuprofen tablets or acetaminophen tablets should be taken to reduce fever, helping lower body temperature and promote recovery.
