A fever or hyperthermia is not a disease but a temporary result of our body's response to fight foreign invaders in our system, often due to an underlying condition. Fever is usually a sign of infection.
Body temperature using the axillary route:
- Low temperature less than 35.8C
- Normal temperature 35.9-37C
- Increased temperature 37.1-37.5C
- Low-grade fever 37.6-38C
- Moderate fever 38.1-38.5C
- High-grade fever 38.6-40C
Signs and symptoms:
- Chills or shivering
- Weakness
- Headache
- Sweating
- Increased pulse/heart rate and respiration
- Warm skin
- Loss of appetite
Fever usually do not need treatment. The main goal is to promote comfort and have a good rest. However, seek medical attention if you suffer from a high fever that you feel might be caused by more serious illness.
How to Relieve Fever on the go
- Wear little clothing as possible.
- Drink lots of liquids.
- Acetaminophen, Aspirin and ibuprofen can be used to treat a fever. However, Aspirin should not be used in children or adolescents.
- Take a regular cool bath, or
- Lower the fever using cool, wet cloth.
- Adjust the room temperature to the most comfortable setting for the patient.
- Stay at home or rest in bed until the fever is completely gone.