Fever treatment available online today

 In order to treat your fever, consult with one of our board-certified doctors online today to develop a treatment plan and find the cause of your fever. Get a new prescription to treat your fever or refill an existing prescription today.*

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Manage fever concerns conveniently from anywhere

*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how to save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of fevers. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Learn about fevers

A fever, also known as hyperthermia, happens when your body has an elevated temperature. The average body temperature is 98.6 °F (37 °C). When you or your child's temperature rises a few degrees, your body may be fighting an infection.

A short-term increase in body temperature can help your body fight off illnesses. However, a severe fever may be a sign of a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.



Fever causes

  • A fever occurs when your hypothalamus—a part of the brain—increases your normal body temperature. When this happens, you might feel chilled and add layers of clothing. Or, you might start shivering to generate more body heat.

    Fevers can be caused by several conditions. A viral infection, such as the flu (influenza), is the most common cause of a fever. Some other causes of fevers include:

    • Certain inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Crohn's disease

    • Certain medications, including antibiotics and hypertension drugs

    • Food poisoning

    • Bacterial infection

    • Heat exhaustion



Fever symptoms

  • Body temperatures vary slightly at different times of the day. The average body temperature is 98.6 °F (37 °C). A temperature taken by a mouth thermometer that exceeds 100.4 °F (38 °C) is generally considered to be a fever.

    A fever isn't an illness by itself. Instead, it's a symptom that your body is fighting an illness. Depending on the underlying cause of your fever, you may experience other symptoms, such as:

    • Excessive sweating

    • Shivering (chills)

    • Headache or body aches

    • Poor appetite

    • Skin rash

    • Weakness and fatigue



How to treat a fever

Fever treatment depends on the severity of your fever and any related symptoms. For example, a low-grade fever between 99.5 °F (37.5 °C) and 100.3 °F (38.3 °C) with no other symptoms usually doesn't require medical treatment.

If you're experiencing mild symptoms, such as muscle weakness or dehydration, home treatment can help you manage symptoms. You can minimize discomfort with home remedies:

  • Take a lukewarm bath.

  • Take fever-reducing medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Avoid giving your child aspirin, as it has been linked to Reye's syndrome.

  • Rest as soon as you recognize your fever and drink plenty of fluids.



Fever medication

  • If your symptoms don't improve or your fever gets worse, talk to your doctor. After diagnosing the underlying cause of your fever, your doctor can prescribe antiviral or antibacterial medications to ease your symptoms.

    Some common medications for fevers include:

    • Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

    • Antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu

    • Antibiotic medications, such as penicillin



How to avoid a fever

The best way to prevent a fever is to limit your exposure to infectious diseases. You can take steps to lower your risk:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.

  • Practice healthy hygiene at home by showing children how to wash hands properly. Make sure your children cover their hands with soap and rinse thoroughly under warm water.

  • Carry hand sanitizer to use when you don't have access to soap and water.

  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

  • Avoid sharing eating utensils, glasses, and food with other people.

  • Get vaccinated as recommended for infectious diseases, such as the flu and COVID-19.



When to see a doctor for a fever

In most cases, mild fevers can be treated with simple home remedies. However, a severe fever can be a symptom of a serious condition that requires immediate medical care. You should talk to your doctor if you have:

  • A body temperature exceeding 103 °F (39.4 °C)

  • A fever that lasts for more than three days

  • A serious medical condition or compromised immune system

During your appointment, you can get a fever diagnosis to determine the cause of your fever. If needed, your doctor can prescribe medication to help manage your symptoms.



Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • A severe headache

  • Throat swelling

  • A skin rash, especially if the rash worsens

  • Sensitivity to bright light

  • Vomiting

  • Abdominal pain

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Confusion



Fever treatment FAQs

  • What are the symptoms of a fever?

    An elevated body temperature is the main fever symptom. The average body temperature is 98.6 °F (37 °C). Usually, a body temperature exceeding 100.4 °F (38 °C) is considered a fever.

    Sometimes, fevers occur on their own without any other symptoms. Other times, you may experience co-occurring symptoms, such as:

    • Headache or body aches

    • Poor appetite

    • Skin rash

    • Excessive sweating

    • Shivering (chills)

    • Muscle weakness

    • Fatigue

  • What are common medications for a fever?

    The most common medications for fevers are over-the-counter pain relievers, such as over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). You should avoid giving your child aspirin for a fever, as it has been linked to Reye's syndrome.

    If your fever doesn't improve with OTC medications and home remedies, talk to your doctor. After diagnosing your fever, your doctor can prescribe medications to manage symptoms.

    For viral infections, antiviral medications are available, such as Tamiflu. For bacterial infections, antibiotics can be prescribed. You will need to talk to a doctor for an official diagnosis before receiving a prescription for your fever.

  • How can I lower a fever without medication?

    Mild fevers can be treated at home without medication. You might try:

    • Taking a lukewarm (not cold) bath

    • Drinking fluids to stay hydrated

    • Getting plenty of rest

    • Adjusting your room temperature

    • Use cold compresses to feel more comfortable

3 simple steps to get treated for a fever today

Step 1

Book a fever treatment appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.



Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your fever symptoms.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.



Step 3

Pick up a prescription for a fever.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.



Fever treatment pricing details

How pricing works

To request fever treatment and get a new prescription or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

Paying with insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

Copay

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

  • We accept these insurance plans and many more:

    • Humana
    • Aetna
    • United Healthcare

Paying without insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

$129

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.