top of page
Search

Q: I have a high fever of 39.2°C a week after getting Influenza A, and fever reducers aren't working. What should I do overnight?

  • Myeongchan Kim
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

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:

I am a teenager and I have a really high fever that won't go down. I was diagnosed with Influenza A last Sunday and received IV fluids on Monday. My vomiting went away, but I still have cold symptoms. This morning, my temperature was 39°C. It went back to normal after taking a fever reducer, but since 5 PM, I've taken fever reducers twice, and the fever hasn't dropped below 38°C. It's been an hour since my last dose, and it's currently 39.2°C. My mom is out, and my dad is in a deep sleep. I am worried about what will happen if my fever spikes during the night while I'm sleeping since no one is awake to care for me. I'm also worried clinics might be closed tomorrow. What should I do?


Answer:

It must be really difficult and scary dealing with such a high fever on your own right now.


Having a fever of over 39°C that doesn't respond well to fever reducers a full week after an Influenza A diagnosis requires careful attention.


Immediate steps you can take:

  1. Drink water frequently: Take small sips of water every 10-15 minutes to stay hydrated.

  2. Wear light clothing: Do not wrap yourself in heavy thick bedding. Use a thin blanket instead so heat can escape.

  3. Record your medication: Write down exactly what time you took the fever reducers, which type you took, and the dosage.

  4. Cool the room: Keep your room well-ventilated and at a comfortable, slightly cool temperature (around 24-26°C).


⚠️ When to wake your dad and go to the Emergency Room:

Please wake your parent immediately and seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following:

• A fever of 40°C or higher

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain

• A severe headache or a stiff neck

• Confusion, dizziness, or delirium

• Not urinating for 8 hours or more


Regarding Fever Reducers:

If necessary, it is possible to alternate between Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen, but you must strictly follow the safe dosing intervals for each medication:

• Acetaminophen: Every 4 to 6 hours

• Ibuprofen: Every 6 to 8 hours


Until tomorrow morning:

• Check your temperature every 2 to 3 hours.

• Continue to drink plenty of water.

• If your symptoms worsen at all, do not hesitate to wake your dad.


Because you are still experiencing high fevers a week after your flu diagnosis, there is a possibility of a secondary infection. You absolutely need to visit a hospital or clinic tomorrow for a doctor's evaluation. If regular clinics are closed, you should visit an urgent care center or the emergency room.


For now, focus on resting and staying hydrated. Please do not try to endure this alone—if it gets too hard to manage, waking your parent is the absolute right thing to do. Your health and safety are the top priority.


For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.






 
 
bottom of page