What can you do yourself to relieve fever?
Fever usually occurs in three phases and can last from a few hours to several days.
1) Increase in fever: The fever rises to a certain temperature.
● Common symptoms: Chills, shivering, cold and pale skin.
● Measures: If cold, the body should be kept warm, e.g. by turning up the room temperature, covering up,
wearing warm clothing and drinking hot drinks.
2) Peak fever: The temperature reached is maintained.
● Common symptoms: Hot, very red, dry skin and glassy eyes, aching limbs, headaches and loss of
appetite.
● Measures: If you feel very hot, wear loose clothing, remove blankets, drink cool drinks, lower the room
temperature, allow fresh air in but avoid draughts. Lukewarm leg compresses or vinegar socks have a
fever-reducing effect (application for max. 10-20 minutes).
3) Drop in temperature: The fever drops back to normal temperature.
● Common symptoms: Hot and sweaty skin and perspiration.
● Measures: Change bed linen and clothing if necessary, wash yourself with cool or lukewarm water, dry
the skin well.