Stress of First Aid

How To Treat A Fever

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Overview

A fever is when there is a rise in the body temperature that is above the normal body temperature. In most circumstances, a fever is usually the result of an infection. Most individuals have a body temperature of 37’C. However, this can vary by a degree or two depending on the person, and varies all the time.

Most individuals believe the higher their temperature is, the worse their illness is, but this is not true though. Actually, a slight fever, of up to 39’C can essentially assist the immune system to help the body fight off the infection. For kids, a fever can cause fits or seizures, and a fever that reaches to about 42.4’C can lead to permanent brain damage if not treated immediately.

Fever symptoms

The following symptoms are related to a fever:

  • Normal feeling of being ill
  • Feeling hot and sweating
  • Trembling
  • Teeth may start to tremble
  • Face feels hot and red

Infection – Causes of a Fever

Infections are usually one of the main causes of a fever. The kind of infection can differ, but this can consist of:

  • A fever is when there is a rise in the body temperature that is above the normal body temperature. Infections like colds or infections related to breathing
  • Germs like strep throat, urinary tract infections, etc.
  • Chronic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis can lead to a fever which can last for up to two weeks.
  • Malaria (tropical diseases)
  • Heat Stroke; there is a fever but no sweating
  • Side effects from drugs can cause a fever
  • Malignant tumors

Treat A Fever at Home

If you get a fever, there are various treatments or methods that you can do:

  • Get drugs at the pharmacy and use them as specified on the bottle such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.
  • Make sure you drink lots of liquids, such as water.
  • Don’t drink anything that can lead to dehydration like coffee or tea.
  • Use a sponge with cold water and apply to the skin to bring the fever down.
  • Stay away from ice cold baths if you want to reduce your fever as this can conceal body heat and cause trembling which is going to increase the body temperature.
  • Get enough rest.

Visiting Your GP

There are instances in which you should see a GP for your fever. This includes:

  • If you notice the fever hasn’t subsided with in three days.
  • You notice that your temperature is over 40’C.
  • You cannot stop trembling or quivering.
  • You are not perspiring even though you are not cold.
  • You appear to become more sick with each day.
  • You have a rash, fast heartbeat, muscle contractions, anxiety, nausea or hallucinations accompanied with a fever.
  • You are sleepy or disorderly.
  • A headache that will not get better even when taking pain meds.

Related Video – Fever

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