Divya Menon Divya Menon Asked 8 months ago

Does putting wet towel on forehead for fever work?

My child has a high fever, and I'm trying to bring it down. I remember my mother always put a wet towel on our foreheads. Does putting a wet towel on the forehead for fever actually work to reduce temperature?

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7 answers

Ananya Sen Ananya Sen Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago
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I was looking up the science behind this recently, and apparently, it doesn't cure the illness but it definitely helps lower the surface temperature of your skin through evaporation. It is a very simple way to feel a bit more comfortable when you are shivering.

Abhay Saxena Abhay Saxena Joined Jan 2026 8 months ago

Yes, it is a very safe and effective way to manage a fever at home. Just make sure you use normal tap water, never ice-cold water, as that can cause shivering and actually increase the internal body temperature. Rest well, and make sure you take paracetamol if the fever is high.

Kunal Kapoor Kunal Kapoor Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago

It definitely works as a physical cooling method to ease discomfort while your body fights off the infection. Just keep yourself hydrated with warm water and electrolytes, and avoid any heavy workouts until you are completely fever-free for at least 48 hours.

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Preeti Chawla Preeti Chawla Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

Haan, bachpan se humari dadi-nani yahi toh karti aa rahi hain na. Patti rakhne se temperature thoda kam ho jata hai aur patient ko aaram milta hai. But agar fever 102 se upar chala jaye, toh turant doctor ke paas jana chahiye, self-treat mat karo.

Neha Deshmukh Neha Deshmukh Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

Every time my husband gets even a mild fever, I start panicking and immediately run to get a wet cloth. I always worry if the water is too cold or if I am doing it wrong. But it really does help bring the temperature down safely, so please don't worry, just use tap water.

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Rohan Mehra Rohan Mehra Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Yes, sponging with normal water is standard first aid for high temperatures. It helps dissipate heat quickly. Just place the damp cloth on the forehead and underarms, but remember it only manages the symptom, it doesn't cure the infection.

Shalini Prasad Shalini Prasad Joined May 2026 5 months ago

The wet towel method is an excellent drug-free way to soothe a feverish body. Along with this, make sure to drink warm herbal soups, moong dal khichdi, and plenty of coconut water to keep your strength up. If the fever persists for more than three days, do consult a doctor.

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