A frontline NHS nurse has shared two remarkably simple yet effective tricks to bring down a high fever without immediately reaching for the medicine cabinet. This expert advice offers a quick first line of defence for parents and carers dealing with a spike in temperature.
The medical professional, who posted the tips on a popular social media platform, emphasised the importance of acting quickly when a fever strikes. The two methods are natural, require items most households already have, and can provide relief within minutes.
1. The Cool Sock Technique
The first method might raise eyebrows, but its proponents swear by its effectiveness. It involves taking a pair of cotton socks, dampening them with cool water, wringing them out thoroughly, and putting them on. Then, a pair of dry wool socks is pulled on over the top.
This creates a cooling yet insulating effect that draws heat away from the body's core. The nurse explained that the body will work to warm the damp socks, which in turn helps to lower the overall internal temperature. Many have reported a significant and comforting reduction in fever after trying this method.
2. The Targeted Wrist Coolant
The second tip is a brilliantly simple act of targeted cooling. The nurse advises taking a cool, damp cloth or flannel and wrapping it around the wrists.
This technique works because major blood vessels run close to the skin's surface at the wrists. Applying a cool compress to these 'pulse points' helps to cool the blood circulating through the body, thereby helping to lower the core temperature more efficiently than simply placing a cloth on the forehead.
The nurse stressed that while these are excellent first steps for managing a mild to moderate fever, it is crucial to stay hydrated and to always seek professional medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or if you are concerned about a child's health. However, for those sudden midnight fevers, having these natural tricks up your sleeve could provide much-needed relief and comfort.
