Can alcohol baths reduce fever, and are they safe?

Mar 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Bai Hongmei

Introduction

Alcohol sponge baths can help reduce fever to some extent, but they carry certain safety risks. During the sponge bath, it is important to closely monitor the patient's response. If adverse reactions such as chills or changes in facial appearance occur, the procedure should be stopped immediately, and warming measures should be taken. If the fever persists or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, prompt medical attention should be sought.

Generally speaking, alcohol sponge baths can help reduce fever to some extent, but there are certain safety risks associated with their use. A detailed analysis is as follows:

The principle behind alcohol sponge baths for reducing fever lies in the volatility of alcohol. When applied and wiped on the skin surface, the evaporation of alcohol removes a significant amount of body heat, thus lowering body temperature. At the same time, alcohol wiping can stimulate nerve endings on the skin, causing skin blood vessels to dilate and increasing blood flow to the skin, thereby accelerating heat dissipation. However, there are also some safety risks associated with the use of alcohol sponge baths.

Alcohol may be absorbed through the skin, especially in children whose skin is tender and highly permeable, making alcohol absorption more likely. If absorbed in large quantities, it may lead to alcohol poisoning, affecting the function of the nervous system, liver, and other organs. If the skin has wounds, ulcers, or other damage, alcohol wiping may cause intense irritation, increase pain, and possibly impair wound healing. Additionally, alcohol is a flammable substance; during wiping, if there is an open flame or electrical sparks from appliances nearby, it may easily cause a fire, creating a safety hazard.

When using an alcohol sponge bath to reduce fever, it is important to closely monitor the patient's response during the process. If adverse reactions such as chills or changes in facial appearance occur, the wiping should be stopped immediately, and warming measures should be taken. If the fever persists or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, prompt medical attention should be sought, and treatment should follow the doctor's recommendations.

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