What should you know about ice packs for fever?

Fever is a body response that can occur with infections and other illnesses. The number on a thermometer matters alongside age, appearance, hydration, breathing, and other symptoms. An ice pack may make the skin feel cold without addressing the cause, and strong chilling can trigger shivering, which is uncomfortable and may increase heat production. Fever can occur with respiratory illnesses, skin infections, and illnesses acquired during travel.

Offer frequent fluids when the person can drink, use light clothing, and keep the room comfortably cool. Rest and check how the person is behaving and breathing. If using a cool cloth, keep it gentle and remove it if shivering starts. Use fever medicine only when appropriate for the person and according to the label or a clinician's advice; never give a child a medicine intended for someone else.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, confusion, a seizure, severe dehydration, a stiff neck, a new concerning rash, or a person who is unusually difficult to wake. Prompt medical advice is needed for a very young infant with fever, persistent fever, repeated vomiting, worsening pain, or fever after travel to a malaria or other infection-risk area.

Ask what temperature and symptoms need review, how much fluid is suitable, whether a fever medicine is safe with current conditions or medicines, and when testing may be needed.