Q: My child has a 40°C fever that won't drop, even with alternating meds. Can I use lukewarm water compresses?
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My child has a fever over 40°C. I've been alternating fever reducers, and the fever goes up and down. Even an hour after taking the medication, there is no sweating and the fever doesn't drop. Can I use a lukewarm water compress? Their body is extremely hot, but the fever isn't coming down. When I tried a lukewarm compress before, my child seemed to struggle and kept shivering.
The hospital said there isn't much else to do and that IV fluids wouldn't help, so they just advised giving plenty of water at home. Also, two months ago, my child had a severe cough and was treated for asthma symptoms with Symbicort and antibiotics for about a month. This new fever started recently, and today is the third day. The medications aren't working well, and even with alternating them, the fever rarely drops below 38°C. What should I do?
Answer:
I understand how concerning this situation must be for you. Here is what you need to know and do right now.
Urgent Signs to Check Immediately
If your child has ANY of the following symptoms, please visit an Urgent Care or Emergency Room today:
Bluish lips or chest retractions (the skin pulling in under the ribs when breathing).
No urine for over 8 hours, or a noticeable lack of tears and saliva (dry mouth).
Extreme lethargy, lack of eye contact, or difficulty waking up.
A stiff neck, severe headache, or repeated vomiting.
Do Not Use Lukewarm Water Compresses
Please avoid wiping your child down with lukewarm water. Cooling the skin externally tricks the body into thinking it is cold. This causes shivering to generate more heat, which only makes your child more uncomfortable and exhausted.
Fever reducers typically take 30 to 60 minutes to show effects. It is completely fine if your child does not sweat; sweating is a result of the fever breaking, not a mandatory step to bring the fever down.
What to Do at Home Right Now
Dress your child in a single, light layer of clothing and keep the room temperature comfortable (around 20–22°C or 68–72°F).
Offer small sips of water or electrolyte drinks very frequently (every 5–10 minutes) to keep them hydrated.
Give fever reducers only when your child is uncomfortable, rather than just trying to lower the number on the thermometer.
Only alternate different types of fever reducers if one medication fails to provide relief. If you do alternate, space the different medications 2 to 3 hours apart and strictly follow the maximum daily dosage for each.
Asthma Medication & 3-Day High Fever
Symbicort (an inhaled steroid) is meant for asthma control, and antibiotics are for bacterial infections.
Since this high fever has persisted for 3 days and the response to fever reducers is weak, you need to have your child re-evaluated by a pediatrician today.
Even if the hospital previously mentioned that IV fluids wouldn't help, treatment plans often change as symptoms evolve over time. Ask your doctor if further evaluation is needed to check for bacterial infections or other potential complications.
Next Steps & Summary
Stop lukewarm compresses. Stick to light clothing and frequent hydration.
Contact your pediatrician first. If it is after hours, visit a local Urgent Care or ER. You can also utilize a 24-hour nurse advice line if your health insurance provides one.
Seek immediate medical attention if any new severe symptoms develop, such as changes in breathing patterns, decreased urination, or a decline in alertness. Even if there are no immediate danger signs, a 3-day persistent high fever that does not respond well to medication warrants a prompt medical re-evaluation.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
