A fever is a condition where your forehead feels warm and your energy levels are low. This article will help you understand what to do before you call in sick and take a few acetaminophen.
These tips will help you understand your body temperature, and how to treat fevers.
The Truth About Fevers
1. Learn how to manage healthy fevers
It might surprise you to know that fever can be a symptom and not a disease. It is your body’s way to defend itself from infection.
Your blood vessels expand to bring excess heat to your skin’s surface, which makes you feel hot.
2. Your baseline
Temperatures of 98.6 F represent an average temperature. This is because your temperature fluctuates throughout a day, peaking usually in the late afternoon.
Measure yourself several times a day when your body is feeling well.
3. Monitor recurring fevers
It can seem like a fever is constantly changing. If you have recurring fevers, medical tests can rule out other serious causes.
4. Get out of bed
Are your parents directing you to remain under the sheets? If you feel comfortable enough, it is fine to get up from your bed. Avoid strenuous activity.
5. Talk to your doctor
Infants who have rectal temperatures above 100.4 F or more or children with skin rashes or stiffness should be seen immediately.
Take Your Temperature
Choose your method. You are able to take your temperature anywhere on your body. An oral thermometer is the best choice for adults and older children.
Be careful with your timing. There are many factors that can influence your body temperature. This includes food, exercise, and hot showers. Wait at least 30 seconds to get a precise reading.
Follow the instructions. Refer to the instructions that came with your thermometer. To get an oral reading, place your instrument under your tongue and close your mouth for at least 3 minutes.
Care for your thermometer. Use cool water and soap to clean it after every use. Check the batteries if you have a digital thermometer.
How to Treat Your Fever
Go to the drugstore. You can reduce fevers or relieve pain with over-the counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen . You may be prescribed an antibiotic to treat the underlying infection by your doctor.
Set the thermostat lower. This will allow you to sleep better and rest more comfortably. If you feel cold, keep a blanket nearby.
Layer your clothes. More layers is better than wearing heavy clothing that can make you sweat. This rapid heat loss can actually make a fever worse.
Get liquids. It’s possible to not feel like eating when you’re ill, but it is important to stay hydrated. Drink water, low-sodium soups, and other beverages.
Take a sponge bath in shallow water to get quick relief. To avoid chills, use warm water.
Be cool when it comes to fevers. Contact your doctor immediately if your child has a dangerously high fever or other symptoms such as seizures, unresponsiveness, or a high temperature. Fever symptoms can also be a sign of a healthy immune system and protection against illness.
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