21 January 2025

Fever: Don't Let Your Guard Down

Fever is a condition in which the body temperature rises above 38 degrees Celsius. Generally, fever is the body's response or a symptom of an illness.

Fever Risk Factors

• Children are more susceptible to fever

• Contact with someone who is sick

• Weak immune system

Causes of Fever
Fever is a symptom or the body’s response to an infection or illness. Therefore, the causes of fever can vary, including:

• Immunization, such as after receiving the pertussis vaccine

• Viral and bacterial infections, such as COVID-19, meningitis, typhoid, dysentery, chickenpox, and urinary tract infections

• Diseases caused by mosquito bites, such as dengue fever, malaria, and chikungunya

• Prolonged exposure to sunlight

• Arthritis and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)

• Cancer, such as leukemia, liver cancer, or lung cancer

Fever Symptoms

• Headache

• Cold sweats

• Chills

• Dehydration

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Ear pain

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Muscle aches

• Loss of appetite

• Fatigue

Fever Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose fever by measuring the patient's body temperature using a thermometer. Afterward, they identify the cause of the fever through medical interviews, a thorough physical examination, and supporting tests if necessary.

To confirm the diagnosis and enable prompt treatment, doctors may recommend further examinations, such as:

• Complete blood test: To determine the levels of each blood component.

• Urinalysis or urine test: This is done in the laboratory to observe urine concentration and content.

• Metabolic panel test: This test evaluates the body’s condition related to metabolism, such as kidney and liver function.

Fever Treatment
For adults, many over-the-counter medications are available to reduce fever. These medicines can be purchased freely. However, mild fever typically does not require treatment. If the fever is caused by a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. On the other hand, if it is due to a viral infection, pain relievers may help alleviate the symptoms.

You can also ease the symptoms of fever with the following home remedies:

• Drink plenty of water, as fever can lead to fluid loss and dehydration.

• Get enough rest to recover, as physical activity may increase body temperature.

• Wear lightweight clothing to stay comfortable.

• Apply a warm compress to your forehead, maintain a cool room temperature, and sleep with only light bedding or thin blankets.

Fever Prevention
Reducing exposure to infectious agents is one of the best ways to prevent fever.

• Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating, after using the toilet, and after being in crowded areas.

• Teach children proper handwashing techniques. Instruct them to cover the front and back of their hands with soap and rinse thoroughly under warm water.

• Carry hand sanitizer or antibacterial wipes. These can be useful when soap and water are not available.

• Avoid touching your nose, mouth, or eyes, as viruses and bacteria can easily enter the body and cause infections.

• Cover your mouth when coughing and your nose when sneezing.

• Avoid sharing cups, glasses, or eating utensils with others.

• Wear a mask when going out to prevent virus transmission through saliva droplets.

When to See a Doctor
If the fever does not improve after a few days of taking fever reducers or pain relievers, seek medical attention promptly. Diagnosing fever is crucial for ensuring timely treatment based on its underlying cause. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening.

Reviewed by: dr. Innosensius Ibnu Ishwara, M.K.K.

Source: Halodoc Health Articles

Image: freepik.com