Do’s and Don’ts During a Fever

Fever is one of the most common health symptoms experienced by people of all ages. It is not a disease in itself but rather a sign that the body is fighting an infection or illness. Most fevers are mild and clear up on their own, but proper care can help alleviate discomfort and improve recovery; likewise, improper care can worsen the condition or even delay recovery. Knowing the right do’s and don’ts during a fever is crucial to take care of it safely without inviting complications.

What is a fever?

A fever is an elevation of the body's temperature above the normal range, usually higher than 100.4°F or 38°C. It is a natural response of the body to infections by viruses, bacteria or other parasites. Fever may also result from heat exhaustion, inflammatory disease or reaction to drugs.

Knowing how to take care of the body when it is experiencing a fever will contribute to quickening recovery and lessening discomfort.

Common Causes

The possible causes of fever include:

• Infections of the upper respiratory system such as flu, cold or COVID-19 virus.
• Typhoid
• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infection
• Dengue, malaria or any other mosquito-borne diseases
• Throat, ear and lung infections
• Post-vaccination reactions
• Heat exhaustion or dehydration

It is rather essential to determine the underlying cause, especially when fever persists for more than a few days.

Do's During a Fever

The right practices after a fever help the body recover faster and avoid unnecessary strain.

1. Stay Well Hydrated

Plenty of fluids like water, coconut water, oral rehydration solutions, soups and herbal teas should be consumed. Fever leads to loss of fluids through perspiration; dehydration can further worsen weakness and fatigue.

2. Rest Adequately

Rest is important with fever. Avoid physical exhaustion and let the body focus on its fight against the invasion. Enough sleep also helps the immune system to take control and accelerate the healing process.

3. Eat Light and Nutritious Food

Opt for easily digestible foods such as khichdi, dal, soups, fruits and vegetables. Adequate nutrition provides the necessary energy required during recovery, without putting extra pressure on the digestive system.

4. Check Body Temperature

Regularly check your temperature with a thermometer. A record will help one in realizing if the fever is getting better or worse and it helps the doctor's diagnosis.

5. Use Medicines Only as Prescribed

Take only the prescribed quantity of fever medications such as paracetamol. Medical advice should be followed at all times, particularly for children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

6. Keep the Room Temperature Comfortable

The room should be kept well-ventilated with a comfortable temperature. Wearing light and loose-fitting clothes can prevent overheating.

7. Practice Proper Hygiene

Wash hands often, bathe with clean towels and do not share personal things. This will help avoid infecting others.

Don’ts During a Fever

Certain habits can exacerbate fever or even lead to complications. Steer clear of the following mistakes:

1. Don't Ignore Persistent or High Fever

Don't ignore a fever that lasts longer than 2-3 days or a fever higher than 102°F. You must seek immediate medical help.

2. Avoid Over-self-Medicating

Avoid the intake of multiple medicines or antibiotics without prescription from a doctor. Self-medication masks the symptoms, produces side effects or leads to drug resistance.

3. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcohol and beverages containing caffeine dehydrate the body and hinder the recovery process. Opt for healthy fluids instead.

4. Don’t Overdress or Overheat

Putting the body under heavy blankets or heavy clothing traps heat and increases the body temperature even higher.

5. Never Skip a Meal

Although the appetite is low, it is not advisable to abstain from food because this can weaken the body. Instead, eat small portions of nutritious food.

6. Don’t Take Cold Baths

Avoid cold baths or ice packs; shivering will raise the body's temperature. Lukewarm sponging should be used only if instructed by a physician.

7. Do Not Send Children to School or Adults to Work

Continued daily activity when one has a fever delays recovery and predisposes others to infection.

Fever in Children and Elderly People

Much care is required in children and the elderly when they have a fever.

• Among children, warning signs such as persistent crying, poor feeding, seizures or acting lethargic, call for immediate medical consulting.
• Among elderly patients, fever mostly indicates serious underlying infections behind it and thus should not be ignored, especially if the patient is confused or displays weakness.

It is very important that these age groups consult a healthcare provider in good time.

When to See a Doctor

When to see a doctor If you experience any of the following, you should seek medical attention:

• Fever lasts more than 3 days
• the fever is always over 102°F
• There is severe headache, stiff neck or difficulty breathing
• Fever is also accompanied by a rash, vomiting or dehydration
• Patient is an infant, elderly, pregnant or with chronic illness

Early evaluation by a doctor helps in ascertaining the cause and preventing complications.

Fever Care at Prakash Hospital

Fever management in Prakash Hospital focuses on appropriate diagnosis, timely treatment and safety of the patient. With a pool of experienced physicians and advanced diagnosis facilities, the underlying cause of fever, whether viral, bacterial or systemic, is sorted out. A personalized treatment plan, close monitoring and educating the patients for better recovery and reducing further complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is fever always dangerous?

No, fever is usually a sign that the body's defense is fighting an infection. However, in the case of persistent or very high fever, it needs medical attention.

• Can a fever be treated at home?

Mild fever can be treated with rest and hydration at home, including medication as instructed by a healthcare provider. Seek medical consultation if the condition deteriorates.

• Is it normal to sweat while experiencing fever?

Yes, one may sweat as the body struggles to lower the temperature, but fluids should be replaced.

• Can fever be transmitted from person to person?

Fever itself is not contagious, but the infection causing it may be.

• Should antibiotics be taken for fever?

Antibiotics should be taken only as prescribed by the doctor and when a bacterial infection is confirmed.