Fever: Causes & Treatment

 Fever is a rise in body temperature above the normal temperature, usually caused by infection. Normal body temperature is around 37°C (give or take a degree, depending on individual differences). There may also be minor fluctuations over the course of the day and night. Contrary to popular belief, the severity of fever isn’t necessarily related to the seriousness of the illness – for example, life-threatening meningitis might only cause a small temperature rise.



The fever triggered by a viral or bacterial infection is caused by chemicals produced by the immune system, which reset the body’s thermostat to a higher level. Most cases of mild fever resolve by themselves within a couple of days. A mild fever (up to 39°C) can actually help the immune system to get rid of an infection. In children between the ages of six months and six years, fever can trigger convulsions. A fever of 42.4°C or higher, particularly in the elderly, can permanently damage the brain.

At-home treatments may help relieve cold, flu, and allergy symptoms. These can help soothe headaches and reduce fevers.


1.  Drink plenty of fluid

If you’re running a fever, your temperature will deplete vital water from your cells. That is why it is important to keep the body fluids flowing. If you are sweating profusely, vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, you might be experiencing abnormal fluid loss. These are symptoms which can lead to dangerous levels of dehydration and which means you will need to drink more water to replenish the body.

Try these tips for getting enough fluids: Don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink water or other fluids. Take sips of water, milk, or juice between bites during meals. Add liquids throughout the day.



2.   Apply a cool, damp cloth to your eyes, face, and neck.

Placing a cool, damp washcloth on your forehead and the back of your neck can help your fever symptoms feel better. You might also want to give yourself a sponge bath with cool water, focusing on high-heat areas like your armpits and groin. Normally, this method, known as tepid sponging, is done for about 5 minutes.



3.   Sit in a warm bath.

Having a bath is among the last thing on your priority list when you are knocked down by fever. We don’t blame you. When your whole body is aching and chills and fever are pulling you down, the only thing you want to do is to snuggle up in the bed with your favourite blanket.

Taking a bath during fever is not only relaxing but helps to lower down the body temperature. There are two types of fever baths.
Sponge bath
A sponge bath is for babies and young children who cannot bathe on their own. Water at room temperature can be used for giving a sponge bath.
Bathtub/shower
If you don’t feel cold, you get into a tub and take a nice bubble bath.





4.   Eucalyptus oil and tea tree oil

Eucalyptus essential oil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties that may help bring down a fever. It may also help fight viral, bacterial, and fungal infections in your body. Lab tests found that eucalyptus oil was able to get rid of several germs that cause illness in people

Additionally, tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties. Tea tree oil was able to bring down swelling, redness, irritation, and pain from allergic skin reactions. Soothing inflammation on the skin and in the body may help reduce a fever

 

5.     Go to Doctor

You should also consult with your doctor if your fever goes above 102°F (38.9°C) or doesn’t come down within two days. You can try OTC medications, but you should be sure they won’t conflict with any other medications you’re taking.










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