How to reduce fever is a frequent question, especially in the cold season, when various viruses and colds appear more frequently. It's good to know that high fever can be really dangerous, which is why doctor's advice is always important. Find out what are the normal values of the human body temperature and when you need to take measures to lower the fever.
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| How to reduce fever quickly if you don't have medicine |
Contents:
- What is a fever and why does the body temperature rise?
- Fever - what are the first symptoms
- How to measure temperature
- How to reduce fever without medicine
- When you should see your doctor if you have a fever
Note: The information in this article is not a substitute for the advice of a medical professional. We recommend that you consult your doctor and follow his instructions before trying any treatment.
What is a fever and why does the body temperature rise?
A fever is a temporary rise in body temperature. It is part of a general response from the body's immune system. Fever is usually caused by an infection.
For most children and adults, a fever can be uncomfortable. But, up to a certain value it is not considered serious. For infants, however, and for people with a weakened immune system, even a low fever can be a sign that you need to consult a doctor.
The fever usually goes away within a few days. A number of over-the-counter medications can reduce fever. According to the Mayo Clinic, you don't necessarily need to treat a fever unless it's causing major discomfort, and especially not necessarily with medication.
Fever - what are the first symptoms
Body temperature varies slightly from person to person and at different times of the day. Average temperature has traditionally been defined as 37 C. A temperature taken with a buccal thermometer (oral temperature) that is 37.8 C or higher is generally considered to be a fever.
Other signs and symptoms of fever may include:
- Sweating
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability
- Dehydration
- General weakness
How to measure temperature
To take your temperature, you can choose from several types of thermometers, including oral, rectal, ear (tympanic) and forehead thermometers.
Oral and rectal thermometers generally provide the most accurate measurement of body temperature. Ear or forehead thermometers, while convenient, provide less accurate temperature measurements.
In infants, rectal temperature, if possible, is somewhat more accurate. When reporting a temperature to the doctor, it is good to indicate both the value and the type of thermometer used.
How to reduce fever without medicine
- Maintains a high level of hydration . Drinking water, cold tea or very diluted juice are recommended to restore hydration levels.
- Wear pajamas or thin clothes , or you can even stay in just your underwear.
- Try to avoid using too many blankets when you have chills.
- Take lukewarm (not cold) baths or use cold compresses to lower your body temperature. Cold baths, ice baths, or alcohol baths and rubs can be dangerous and should be avoided.
- Lower the temperature in the room . Open the window or, if it's summer, use the air conditioner or fan to lower the temperature in the room.
- Regardless of the reading on the thermometer, if you do not feel well, consult your doctor.
When you should see your doctor if you have a fever
Fever itself is not a medical emergency when its value does not exceed 38.5-39 degrees Celsius. However, there are certain circumstances in which you should urgently seek medical advice:
- Infants and young children -Fever is a particular cause for concern in infants and young children. Call your child's doctor if your child is:
- Less than 3 months and has a rectal temperature of 38 C or higher.
- Between 3 and 6 months and has a rectal temperature higher than 38.9 C or has a lower temperature but seems unusually agitated or sleepy
- Between 7 and 24 months and has a rectal temperature greater than 38.9 C lasting more than a day but no other symptoms. If your child has other signs and symptoms, such as a runny nose, cough, or diarrhea, you can call sooner.
In the case of older children and adults, a fever of up to 39 C, which does not last more than 2-3 days, is not a medical emergency, unless there are other worrisome symptoms. However, it is always good to ask your family doctor for advice. Symptoms that indicate an emergency include:
- Severe headaches
- Eczema
- Unusual sensitivity to bright light
- Stiff neck and pain when bending head forward
- Confusion, strange behavior or slurred speech
- Persistent vomiting
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Abdominal pain
- Pain when urinating
- Seizures
The appearance of fever is the body's response to fight infections caused by viruses or bacteria. Fever can also result from sunburn or different types of immunizations. Anyone can get a fever, regardless of age. If you do not feel well and your health worsens, always consult your doctor.