A fever is an increase in body temperature above 37°C. However, a high temperature itself is usually harmless and probably even helpful. In fact, it’s not an illness, but a sign that the body is trying to fight off a disease or infection.
Infections cause most fevers. This means that if you have a fever, it’s because your body is trying to fight off the virus or bacteria that caused the infection.
Most of these bacteria and viruses survive well when the body is at its normal temperature. But if you have a fever, it’s more difficult for them to survive. Therefore, fever is also a sign that your body’s immune system is activated. The body kills the microorganisms by exposing them to an “unfriendly” environment and then expels them.
Fever is more common in children than in adults. This happens because children’s immune systems are still developing their defenses against various foreign agents in the environment.
How to act in case of fever?
Fever should be considered a sign of an underlying health problem that requires attention. The first step is to take the temperature and monitor it regularly.
You’ll probably notice that the person with a fever starts to sweat a lot. Sweating is precisely how the body eliminates excess heat and cools itself down. To avoid dehydration from profuse sweating, it’s essential to stay hydrated.
As recommended by Mayo Clinic experts:
- If the fever remains below 40 degrees, the ideal thing to do is rest and drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
- If the fever remains around 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) and does not decrease, it is important to see a doctor immediately. This is especially important if the fever is accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, seizures, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.
Home remedies to lower fever
There are several natural remedies you can consider to help lower a high temperature. Keep in mind that their effectiveness is not guaranteed in all cases and that they should never replace medical consultation or treatment.
Yarrow and mint
According to studies, yarrow has properties that reduce body temperature and also has digestive properties that help fight parasites and bacteria.
In these cases, it is recommended to prepare a combination of yarrow with mint (with proven antimicrobial and antiviral properties) and elderberry (there are also studies that confirm its usefulness in treating diseases such as the flu).
Sage
Sage is said to be another good remedy for regulating body temperature. However, it’s important to clarify that this is not among the main medicinal effects attributed to this plant.
Similarly, traditional medicine recommends boiling a cup of water (250 ml) and adding 25 grams of fresh sage, 5 grams of honey, and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Water and infusions
Regardless of the method used to reduce fever, it is very important to drink plenty of fluids, as the body becomes dehydrated. Drink plenty of water, as well as natural juices, herbal teas, and broths.
Lemon peel and barley
In folk medicine, this remedy is said to help replenish fluids after sweating due to fever. Traditional recipes suggest placing the peel of one lemon and two tablespoons of barley, which is believed to have fever-reducing properties, in one liter of boiling water. Let it steep for 12 hours and drink it throughout the day.
In folk medicine, this remedy is said to help replenish fluids after sweating due to fever. Traditional recipes suggest placing the peel of one lemon and two tablespoons of barley, which is believed to have fever-reducing properties, in one liter of boiling water. Let it steep for 12 hours and drink it throughout the day.
Recommendations
Health experts indicate that “paracetamol (acetaminophen) generally reduces fever and improves the condition of the affected person, although in most cases, this treatment is not crucial.”
If you have a fever, it’s best to stay well hydrated (by drinking plenty of water), rest, and stay cool. Avoid bundling up too much, as this could be counterproductive.
Additionally, remember to ventilate your room daily for at least 10 minutes.
