Fever

Do you have a Fever?

What is Fever?

Fever is a rise in body temperature above the normal temperature, usually caused by infection.

Normal body temperature is around 37°C (give or take a degree, depending on individual differences). There may also be minor fluctuations over the course of the day and night. Contrary to popular belief, the severity of fever isn’t necessarily related to the seriousness of the illness – for example, life-threatening meningitis might only cause a small temperature rise.

The fever triggered by a viral or bacterial infection is caused by chemicals produced by the immune system, which reset the body’s thermostat to a higher level. Most cases of mild fever resolve by themselves within a couple of days.

A mild fever (up to 39°C) can actually help the immune system to get rid of an infection.

In children between the ages of six months and six years, fever can trigger convulsions.

A fever of 42.4°C or higher, particularly in the elderly, can permanently damage the brain.[1]

IMPORTANT!!

You should always consult with your doctor in the following cases:

1. You are still feverish after three days, despite home treatment.
2. Your temperature is over 40°C.
3. You are shivering and shaking involuntarily, or your teeth are chattering.
4. You are hot, but not sweating.
5. You seem to be getting sicker as time goes by.
6. You feel confused and drowsy.
7. You have a severe headache that doesn’t respond to painkillers.
8. You have recently travelled overseas.

You have unusual symptoms such as

1. hallucinations,
2. vomiting,
3. neck stiffness,
4. skin rash,
5. rapid heart rate,
6. chills or
7. muscle spasms.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else has the following symptoms:

1. Fever with headache and a stiff neck
2. Rash that does not Blanche to skin pressure (indicates bleeding into the skin) This can indicate a life threatening illness. [1]

A fever is part of the healing process – the body’s way of combating illness.

We use various naturopathic principles to treat the cause and look for the disharmony in your body and mind to bring your body back to balance. Please see below a brief treatment (Rx) protocol and reference guide, with choices to help improve your health and wellbeing. Click on the headings and links within for more treatment information.