Fever /Pyrexia

Fever is defined when a human’s body temperature goes above the normal range which is generally a normal immune response to infection .In very young children and infants, a slightly raised temperature indicates a serious infection. Normal body temperature varies throughout the day –it is lower in the morning and higher in the afternoon and evening.

 

 

What is Fever/Pyrexia?

Fever is defined when a human’s body temperature goes above the normal range

Normal range 36-37C (98-100F).

Fever is a routine symptom in infants and children, which is a normal immune response to infection for generating elevated body temperature.

In very young children and infants, a slightly raised temperature indicates a serious infection.

Normal body temperature varies throughout the day –it is lower in the morning and higher in the afternoon and evening.

Immunization in children or teething can cause a low-grade fever.

Fever is the result of a body’s immune response to a foreign invader. These foreign invaders include viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other viruses.

A digital thermometer is used to measure rectal, oral or axillary temperatures.

• The temperature in the mouth is over 37.7C (99.9F)

• The temperature in the rectum (anus) is over 37.5-38.3C (100-101F)

• The temperature under the arm or ear is over 37.2C (99F).

How to measure a fever?

• Clean the thermometer with alcohol and rinse.

• Placing the tip of the thermometer under the tongue.

• Keeping the mouth closed.

• The thermometer should remain in place for one to two minutes.

• Avoiding hot or cold drinks before temperature measurements

Rectal temperature will read approximately 1 degree higher than an oral temperature.

What are the causes of fever?

• Infection

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Medications

• Sun exposure /heat stroke

• Auto-immune disease, inflammatory disorders

• Seizures

• Cancer

• Medications reactions

• Ulcerative colitis

• Blood clots

• Urinary tract infections

• Respiratory infections

• Skin infections

• Fever after immunization

• Ear infection

• Sinus infection

• Viral and bacterial gastroenteritis

Physical activity, strong emotions, eating, heavy clothing, medications, and increased humidity increase body temperature.

What are the signs and symptoms of fever?

• Headache

• Feeling of cold

• Anorexia –lack of appetite

• Dehydration

• Depression

• Lethargy

• Sweating

• Difficulty in concentration

• Sleepiness

• Weakness rapid heartbeat

• Severe vomiting

• Fever blisters

• Neck stiffness

• Confusion

Children with fever may develop febrile seizures

What are the investigations of fever?

• Physical examination –skin, eyes, ear, nose, throat, neck, chest and abdomen

• Blood test (complete blood count )

• X-ray of the chest

• Urinalysis

What treatment is advised for fever?

• NSAIDs ( non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs )

• Antibiotic

• Rest

• Removing excess clothing or blankets in high fever

• Room temperature to be comfortable not too cold or not too hot.

• A sponge bath is a good option

What is the prognosis for fever?

The prognosis for a fever depends upon the cause, depending upon the underlying cause antibiotics and proper medications can be given.

What are the complications of fever?

• Seizures

• Dehydration

• Hallucinations

What is the diet and management of fever?

• Maintaining hygiene

• Washing hands before and after food

• Healthy diet

• Regular exercise

• Drinking a lot of fluids

• Consuming a lot of fruits and vegetables

• Avoiding contact with infected people

• Dress in light clothing

What are the commonly indicated homeopathic remedies for fever?

Aconitum Napellus

Belladona

Bryonia

Gelsemium

Sulphur

 

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