Many people get worried when they or their loved ones develop a fever. Especially when it happens to children. Yes - it can be a sign of an illness. But a raised temperature helps your immune system fight off infections. Unfortunately there are scary myths about fevers, leading people to believe they always need to treat them.
A fever is when your body temperature is above 100ºF when measured orally. If you don’t have any health problems, then you don’t really need to treat the fever. Because this can slow down your body's ability to fight the infection. But if you have chills or muscle aches, then you could try home treatments.
What are the ways you can break a fever?
1. You can take over-the-counter fever medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen. If you have a child who’s 2 or younger, be sure to first talk to your doctor. And never give aspirin to teens or children.
2. Drink plenty of cool, clear fluids like water and electrolyte drinks.
3. Try using cool compresses on your head.
4. Wear light clothing - too many layers can make you overheat.
5. Be sure to stay home and get rest. If you push too hard, you’ll likely feel worse and it can take longer to recover.
To start it's really best to avoid a fever. So here are my prescriptions.
Partha’s RX:
1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water to avoid germs.
2. If no soap and water is available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
3. Try to avoid close contact with sick people or ask them to cover their mouth when they cough or sneeze.
4. Be sure to get a flu shot as this lowers your risk of getting the flu.
You should contact your doctor if your fever goes above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, if it lasts longer than 3 days, if you have a rash, intense pain or swelling. Seek immediate help if you or a loved one has a seizure for the first time, are confused or lose consciousness, or if a child is under 3 months of age.
