Home Remedies for a High Fever in Teenagers

A teen with a high fever worries most parents. Typically, a high fever indicates your teen's body is fighting a viral or bacterial infection. Home remedies can also help make your teen more comfortable. They assist with reducing fever and keeping the body cool. However, it's important to know when it's time to get medical care for a high fever.

Teen aged girl in bed holding a thermometer. (Image: pojoslaw/iStock/Getty Images)

Sponge Bath

Ask your teen to take a lukewarm sponge bath. Tell her to sponge water over her legs, arms and torso to cool her body and to continue to do this until the high fever declines. If your teen starts to shiver, it's time to end the bath. Shivering causes your teen's muscles to shake, and shaking muscles generate heat, resulting in a higher fever.

Cool Clothing

Encourage your teen to dress in cool clothing. This allows the heat to escape from his body and aids in reducing a fever. Also remove any warm comforters or electric blankets from your teen's bed. Replace them with a light, breathable blanket. Keep your home's temperature comfortable, but not too cool. Remember, if your teen starts to shiver, it could increase his fever.

Fluids

Encourage your teen to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Broth, juice, water or an electrolyte replacement fluid are good options. Electrolyte replacement fluid is available at most drug stores. If your teen refuses to eat or drink, consult her doctor. Watch for signs of dehydration, which include a dry and sticky mouth, dry skin, dizziness and decreased urination.

Rest

Rest is important for lowering your teen's high fever. If he is active, his body generates heat, making it more difficult to reduce a fever. Also, her body needs rest to fight the infection. Encourage your teen to read books or play quiet video games and to avoid physical activity.

Medical Attention

There are times when a high fever requires medical attention. If your teenager vomits repeatedly or has a severe stomach ache or headache that's causing discomfort, it's time to seek assistance from a medical professional. Also, if your teen has a fever that lasts longer than three days or is 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, consult your teen's doctor.