What is fever?
Temporary Increasing temperature of a body is medically termed as fever. Normally, it occurs because of an illness. Fever indicates that something is going unusual in our body. Fever can be uncomfortable for us; however it may not be a major concern unless below 103F. Moreover, for toddlers and infants, an elevated temperature signals towards a prevailing infection.
Normally, fever goes away after completing its due course. The doctor can suggest over-the-counter drugs in order to lower your fever, however at times; leaving your fever untreated is a better option as it helps us fight against many infections.
What are the symptoms of fever?
If the body temperature reaches above the normal range, then you are indeed suffering from fever. Clearly, 98.6 F, is medically considered a normal body temperature. the symptoms of fever tends to depend upon the cause that triggered it, however few of its common symptoms include:
- General weakness,
- Dehydration.
- Loss of appetite.
- Muscle aches.
- Headache.
- Shivering.
- Sweating.
Extreme high temperature that is between103 and 106 F can cause:
- Dehydration.
- Convulsions.
- Irritability.
- Confusion.
- Hallucinations.
What causes fever?
Fever can be cause by the following factors:
- Bacterial infection.
- Virus.
- Extreme sunburn.
- Heat exhaustion.
- Malignant tumor.
- Specific inflammatory conditions for example rheumatoid arthritis.
- Certain medications for example antibiotics or medicines use for treating seizures and high blood pressure.
- Certain immunizations for example pneumococcal, accellular pertussis, tetanus and diphtheria vaccine.
At times, fever occurs due to unknown reasons.
What are the possible complications of fever?
Few complications associated with fever are:
- Fever-induced seizures (in children).
- Hallucinations.
- Severe dehydration.
How is fever diagnosed?
In order to asses a fever, the doctor will need details regarding your medical history and symptoms you have been noticing for the last few days. He will also conduct a thorough physical examination. Based on your physical exam and medical history, the doctor can suggest the following tests, if needed:
- Chest X-ray.
- Blood tests.
How is fever treated?
For low temperature, the doctor will not suggest any treatment as it can mask your symptoms or stretch your illness making it difficult to identify the cause. However, in case of suffering from high fever, the doctor can prescribe over-the-counter drugs including:
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Aspirin (adulls).
Moreover, depending upon the fever’s cause, the doctor can prescribe antibiotics, particularly if he doubts a bacterial infection, for example strep throat or pneumonia.
Prevention:
By lessening exposure to countless of infectious diseases, you can simply prevent frequent fevers. Have a look to some useful tips:
- Children and adults must thoroughly wash their hands more often.
- While traveling, carry hand sanitizer or moist towelettes with you.
- Bacteria and viruses can easily enter a body thorough eyes, mouth or nose, so avoid touching them.
- Always cover your nose/mouth during sneezing/coughing.
- Avoid sharing utensils, water bottles and cups with others.
By : Natural Health News
