Pyrexia: The Common Fever Explained

Fever describes a state in which your body’s temperature is higher than normal. The normal temperature of a person is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Celsius. A fever causes can cause sweating, chills, and muscle pain. Everyone’s had fever at some point or the other in their life. It is important that you understand its symptoms:

What is fever?

Dr. Manoj Ranka,Consultant, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket says a fever is when your body raises its temperature above normal for a long time. Your body temperature fluctuates throughout the day; it tends to be lower in the morning and higher in the afternoon. Medically, you are considered to have a fever when your body temperature crosses 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius).

Why does fever happen?

Have you ever wondered how humans used to survive the deadly diseases before the invention of antibiotics? When your body is suffering from an illness or an infection, it intentionally raises its temperature. Through increased body temperature, fever stops bacteria and viruses from reproducing, curbing the reproduction of illness-causing bacteria and viruses. This enables the body to gradually restore itself to full health.

What should I do if I have fever?

If you have a fever, your body needs a lot of rest and fluids. Make sure that you drink plenty of water and sleep as much as you can. If the weather is hot, turn the fan on and try to lower the temperature in the room. Wear loose-fitting clothes; they’re more comfortable and will allow you to rest easy.

Does my fever require medical attention?

In most cases, fever is beneficial, causes no problems, and helps your body fight off infections naturally. Fever normally clears up on its own after having run its course of fighting harmful bacteria and viruses in 2-3 days. As long as your temperature doesn’t cross 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 Celsius) short lasting you don’t need medical attention. If it does cross 103 degrees persistent beyond 3-4 days, then consult your doctor immediately.

A fever is unpleasant and tiring; there’s no doubt about it. The best way to treat it is to take plenty of rest and allow it to run its own course. Take your temperature every hour and make a record. If your fever does cross 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 Celsius), consult a doctor immediately for proper medication.

ALERT:-

High fever in children below 3-4 years needs to be brought down urgently as it can cause Febrile Seizures. So immediately, start doing cold sponging (entire body) and consult your pediatrician/doctor at the earliest.