Fever: Causes, Symptoms & Care

Fever is a natural body response, typically indicating an effort to combat infection. However, not all fevers are caused by infections; other factors can contribute as well.

Causes of Fever

• Infections: Bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections such as common cold, flu, pneumonia, or urinary tract infections.

• Inflammation: Injury or inflammation in any part of the body.

• Cancer: Some types of cancer can cause fever.

• Autoimmune diseases: Diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Others: Certain medications, poisoning, or hormonal imbalances.

Diagnosing Infectious Diseases

Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, and may involve tests like:

• Blood tests to identify infection and inflammation levels.

• Urine tests to detect urinary tract infections.

• Milk sample analysis for breastfeeding infants.

• Imaging tests to locate infections in lungs, kidneys, or other organs.

Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, but misuse or overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance, making infections harder to treat.

Preventing Infection

• Maintain hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap.

• Eat nutritious food.

• Get sufficient rest.

• Get vaccinated against viral infections.

• Use antibiotics strictly as prescribed by a doctor.

Managing Fever

• Ensure adequate rest to help the body fight infection.

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

• Take fever-reducing medications as prescribed.

• Use warm baths to reduce body temperature.

• Wear light clothing to maintain body coolness.

When to See a Doctor

• Fever lasts more than three days.

• Accompanied by headache, neck pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or breathing difficulties.

• Very high fever.

• In infants or elderly individuals.

Remember: Fever is a symptom, not a disease. Proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause are essential.