How to physically reduce fever during a cold
Sep 21, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Patients with the common cold may use physical cooling methods such as wiping the body with lukewarm water, alcohol rubs, increasing fluid intake, soaking feet in hot water, and applying fever-reducing patches. Wiping the body with lukewarm water is an effective way to reduce body temperature. Use a towel soaked in lukewarm water (27–37°C) to wipe skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, elbows, and groin area.
Under normal circumstances, patients with the common cold can use physical cooling methods such as warm water sponging, alcohol rubs, increased fluid intake, hot foot soaks, and fever-reducing patches. Specific details are as follows:
1. Warm Water Sponging
Patients may choose to sponge their bodies with warm water, which is effective for reducing body temperature. Use a towel soaked in warm water at 27–37°C to wipe areas with skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, elbows, and groin.
2. Alcohol Cooling
Wiping with alcohol can dilate superficial capillaries, promoting heat dissipation. This involves using 20% to 50% alcohol diluted by half. Then, take two pieces of gauze or clean cloth (each about the size of a palm), soak them in the diluted alcohol, and gently wipe specific body areas accordingly. Note that this method should only be performed under medical guidance.
3. Increase Fluid Intake
Drinking more water during fever not only replenishes lost fluids but also promotes sweating and urination, helping eliminate toxins and metabolic waste from the body, thus supporting faster recovery.
4. Hot Foot Soak
For a foot soak, use a basin or small bucket filled with hot water. While soaking, gently massage the feet to alleviate discomfort caused by fever.
5. Fever-Reducing Patches
Fever-reducing patches are commonly used physical cooling products that help lower body temperature. They work by evaporating moisture within the gel layer to draw heat away from the body. These patches are applied externally on body surfaces such as the forehead, temples, armpits, groin, and along the left and right carotid arteries on the neck.
When experiencing mild fever due to a cold, physical cooling methods can be used. However, if the fever is high, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention. Treatment should be administered under a doctor’s supervision, including medication and, when necessary, intravenous therapy to prevent worsening of the condition.
