Common FAQS on Fever

1.  What Is a Fever?

A fever is generally caused by an illness like cold or flu. It is characterized by a temporary increase in the average body temperature of 98.6°F (37°C). In response to fever, the hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, may reset the body to a higher temperature.

2.  What Causes Fever?

Infections related to the ear, skin, lung, throat, bladder, or kidney can cause fever. Fever may also be a symptom of a cold or gastroenteritis condition. When a person catches an infection, it activates the defence system of the body to ward off infections. During this process, the body’s temperature is raised causing mild to severe fever.

3.  What are the Symptoms of a Fever?

Apart from higher body temperature, additional signs and symptoms of fever include profuse Sweating, chills, severe headache, body ache, weakness, sometimes nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite and dehydration.

4.  Does Onion Help Reduce a Fever

The use of onion as a remedy dates back to ancient times, where it has shown its effectiveness in bringing down a fever by reducing the likelihood of infections.  Onions also help lower body temperature and relieve body ache caused by fever. You can use onion for fever by cutting it into small pieces and adding some drinking water to it. Then, consuming it after six to seven hours. You can see your symptoms gone within 24 hours.

5.  When to Visit Hospital During a Fever?

Seek immediate medical care if your temperature is 103 F (39.4 C) or higher and if you observe any signs or symptoms like an unusual skin rash that worsens along with severe headache.

6.  How Long Does Fever Last?

A normal fever usually stays for around 1-3 days. Persistent or chronic fever can last more than 10-14 days. A fever that lasts longer than normal may be serious even if it is only a slight fever. So, seek immediate medical attention in such cases.

7.  Should I Cover Myself With Blankets to Recover From Fever?

There is no scientific evidence till date, that shows sweating can help you feel better during fever.  So, wrapping up yourself with an extra layer of clothes and blankets, or taking a steam bath, and moving around can bother you even more and is not recommended.

8.  What Should You Eat When You Have a Fever?

During a fever, the water content in the body decreases, resulting in dehydration, and loss of appetite. This causes dry mouth in fever, which also alters the taste of the food. Hence the best way to supply nutrients to the individuals in fever is to provide them with plenty of warm liquids, like soups, vegetable stews and broths.

9.  How do You Bring Down a Fever?

Bring down your fever by following these simple steps:

1. Assess your body temperature with a thermometer. If your temperature runs 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, you have a fever.

2. Stay in bed and take rest as much as possible. Your body needs the energy to fight the infection and resting may assist in it.

3. Consume plenty of fluids usually warm, like warm water, hot soups and broths.

4. Take over-the-counter medications like Paracetamol/ acetaminophen and Ibuprofen to reduce fever.

5. Stay cool. Do not use blankets or an extra layer of clothing.

6. Take warm baths or use a cold compress to bring down your temperature.

7. Consult your doctor.

10.              How Does Sleep Help in Fever?

Fevers are actually good for your body as it strengthens your immunity. Sleep or rest during fever releases proteins that target the infection and helps your body cope up with fever. This means sleeping helps invigorate your immune response to your illness.