Fever – defined as a temporary rise in body temperature above 98.6 degrees F (37 degrees C) – is a common sign of illness.
But recently, this body signal has attracted unusual attention: It could be a sign of COVID-19 disease.
However, a fever can also signal something less serious, such as the common flu.
Regardless of the source, these are the best methods that you should follow if you have a fever.
1. Do not drink certain beverages.
Dr. Pauline J. Jose, family medicine specialist at pH Labs (USA), said: “Avoid drinking alcohol, soft drinks and caffeinated beverages when you have a fever. They can cause dehydration when we really need the most hydration.
2. Don’t wear too many clothes.
This can mess with your body’s thermoregulation and make your fever worse.”
3. Do not double your pills.
Note: Adults should not take more than 1,000 mg of acetaminophen at a time; The daily limit is 2,000 mg. For children, the dosage should be even lower – follow the directions on the package carefully.
It is best to ask your doctor about the type of medicine to take, the dosage, as well as how to take it.
4. Don’t go hungry.
“Fever speeds up your metabolism and you need even more calories from food,” says Dr. Marinov. Hunger can literally paralyze your immune system.”
5. Don’t forget to drink water.
Ralph E. Holsworth, director of clinical and scientific research at Essentia Water (USA), said: “Fever increases respiratory rate, and therefore dehydration, and sweating increases to lower body temperature. . Furthermore, water intake is often reduced with fever, which ultimately exacerbates dehydration.”
Note: It’s important to stay hydrated, so remember to drink plenty of water. According to WebMD, the recommended daily amount of water for men is 13 cups (about 3 liters) and 9 glasses (a little over 2 liters) for women.
6. Do not give aspirin to children.
Leann Poston, a doctor with Invigor Medical in New York (USA), said: Adults can take aspirin, but giving aspirin to children or teenagers when they have the virus can lead to death. called Reye’s Syndrome. Reye’s syndrome is a rare disorder that damages the brain and liver. It’s most commonly seen in children, although it can occur at any age, according to Eat This, Not That!
Note: Aim for over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), according to WebMD.
It is best to ask your doctor about the type of medicine to take, the dosage, as well as how to take it.
7. Don’t skip sleep.
Your immune system expends a lot of energy fighting infections during the day. When you sleep, your body has time to restore that energy. Not sleeping can prolong illness.
Note: Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to ensure proper rest and healing time.
8. Do not resume your normal activities.
Shifting that energy to other activities can make it harder to fight infections.
Note: Stay home until you are fever free for at least 24 hours.
9. Do not shower/bathe in cold water.
While cold water can bring your temperature down in the short term, it can lead to shivering. Cold showers are very uncomfortable and will cause the muscles to shake and cramp more when trying to raise the temperature again.
Note: Try a warm bath with a sponge. Your body will start to cool as the water evaporates.
10. Don’t automatically take medicine to reduce fever.
Fever is a symptom, not a disease. Poston says it’s your body’s response to fight the infection.
11. Suspect you may have COVID-19 .
