Strictly speaking, a fever is an elevation in body temperature. Average body temperature is approximately 98.6 degrees. One should not have undue concern unless the body temperature rises above 102 degrees in adults, 103 degrees in children, or is present in any degree in infants less than three months old. This is a signal that an infection is getting worse. If this is the case, you may want to consult with a physician.
The body is able to withstand high temperatures. Brain damage doesn’t usually occur until about 107 degrees. Nevertheless, there are other symptoms which, when present in addition to fever, may require medical intervention. These include convulsions, confusion, severe headache, back pain, stiff neck, rash, painful urination, chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes), and a fever lasting longer than three days.
Royal Recommedations for Prevention and Treatment
1. Be sure that you are measuring your temperature correctly. A standard glass thermometer is still reliable. Be sure to shake it down, then place the tip alongside of but not underneath the tongue. Leave it in for three minutes. If using a rectal thermometer, use lubrication before inserting and leave it in for 1-2 minutes. Rectal temperature registers one degree higher than oral temperature. If measuring under the arm, temperature is one degree less than body temperature. Electronic and digital thermometers, as well as temperature strips, are also available.
2. Most doctors believe that a mild fever, less than 100 degrees in adults, should not be treated. An elevated temperature is the body’s way of fighting infection. Bacteria and viruses are destroyed by heat.
3. Do not give children aspirin if flu or chicken pox is suspected as this may result in Reye’s syndrome, a potentially fatal disease that may result in vomiting, convulsions, and even coma. Give Tylenol instead.
4. Avoid exercise when a fever is present as this increases your body temperature even more. Instead, reduce your stress by listening to soothing music, having a massage, soaking in a warm bath, or taking a cool sponge bath.
5. During fever, your water loss is increased even without you knowing it. Drink lots of fluids, especially clear liquids, to remain hydrated. This also makes it easier for you to sweat, which is the body’s way of bringing its temperature down.
6. Vitamins A and C will help fight infection and strengthen the immune system. Free form amino acids will aid in repair of tissues damaged from fever. Digestive enzymes can also help fight infection but must be taken between meals for this purpose.
7. Herbs helpful in lowering fever include catnip, dandelion, echinaeca, fenugreek, feverfew, and lobelia.
8. Homeopathics known to be useful in the treatment of fever of unknown cause include: Aconite (when fever is acute, patient is restless, thirsty, and fearful), Arsenicum (if fever is severe and prolonged), Belladonna (for intense fever with redness of face and throbbing headache), Bryonia (when patient is worse for movement), and Rhus Toxicodendron (when fever is due to exposure to cold and damp).
To learn more about healing and health optimizing therapies, go to www.NewHopeMedical.org or call NEW HOPE MEDICAL CENTER at (702) 476-0000 (direct line) or toll free (866) HEAL-NOW!