This post discusses viral fever, one of the most common illnesses in humans. A virus causes it and usually presents with an abrupt onset of fever, sore throat, headache, body aches, and fatigue. Other common symptoms include a runny nose, cough, and swollen lymph nodes. This illness spreads easily through contact with an infected person or object. Treat it with rest and fluids, and in some cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications. Prevent viral fever by practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding contact with infected individuals.
Viral Fever Root Causes
Fever is also known as bukhar (Hindi/Urdu), tap (Marathi), Kayccal (Tamil), Fashao (Chinese), fiebre (Spanish), febre (Portuguese), Jbara (Bengali), likhoradka (Russian). It is a sign of toxins moving in the circulatory system. Contrary to what some people believe, fever is not often a sign of infection. In some cases there is infection, but most of the time the fever is due to toxicity in body’s basic vital tissue. When the ama has been eliminated, the fever will subside. Fever is a sign that your body is fighting toxins and/or infection and is healing and purifying itself. It is usually self limiting that is, it will disappear when the needed healing is done. But there are definitely times when it requires the attention of a medical professional.
Home Treatment to Reduce Body Temperature
1. Forehead Compress
If the temperature is high, prepare a bowl of cool water into which you have added 1 teaspoon of salt. Fold two pieces of clean cloth (such as handkerchiefs), dip them into the water, and put one on the forehead and one over the belly button. Repeat as needed. This will bring down the temperature quickly.
2. Graduated Bath
The patient should enter the bath at a temperature of 31°C. Gradually lower the water temperature at a rate of 10°C per minute until it reaches 25°C. Continue the bath until the patient starts shivering. The graduated bath intends to avoid nervous shock by suddenly plunging into the cold water. Administer this bath every three hours in cases of fever. It effectively brings down the temperature except in malarial fever. Additionally, it produces a general tonic effect, increases vital resistance, and energizes the heart.
3. White Willow
Willow bark or White willow is an ancient remedy for fevers and rheumatic conditions, willow bark contains aspirin-like substances. Take an infusion with ginger to control fevers and to relieve the malaise and discomfort that accompanies acute infection. If the temperature is 102.2ºF (39ºC) or above, seek professional advice immediately.
4. Yarrow
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is an excellent remedy for colds, flu, and fever. It stimulates sweating and reduces body temperature. Yarrow is most commonly taken as a tea to ease cold and flu symptoms, control associated fever, and speed recovery. Drink the tea hot, since this strongly stimulates sweating and encourages cooling. Increased sweating can help to reduce fever and leads to improved cleansing of waste products from the body.
5. Fasting
An old saying goes, “Feed a cold and starve a fever,” and Ayurveda indeed recommends fasting as the first treatment for a fever. For acute fever, observe a total fast if the person is strong enough. If the person is debilitated or weak, drink water, some kind of fruit juice, or herbal teas such as holy basil (tulsi) or lemongrass. Avoid drinking milk; it will worsen the fever and cause diarrhea.
6. Cilantro or Grapes Juice
The simplest herbal remedy for fever is cilantro juice. Put a handful of cilantro leaves in a blender with about 1/3 cup water, and blend thoroughly. Strain out the pulp. Take 2 teaspoons of the remaining liquid 3 times a day to help lower the fever. OR Grapes are cooling. Into a cup of grape juice add 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon fennel, and 1/2 teaspoon sandalwood powder, and drink. This will help to relieve fever.
7. Elder Flowers
Two to three teaspoons of Elder flowers a day in tea will help reduce feverish chills. OR Infusions of yarrow and elderflower will help to control body temperature and also induce sweating.
8. Garlic Soup
Garlic soup is an ancient remedy to reduce the severity of cold. It contains antiseptic and antispasmodic properties besides several other medicinal virtues. The volatile oil in garlic flushes out the system of all toxins and thus helps bring down fever. If your cold is accompanied by fevers, string cloves of garlic or small onions together and wear around your neck at bedtime. This one may have to be tried by those of my readers who are single or whose partner loves the smell of garlic.
9. Black Root + Hops
For an acute attack, use black root and hops to lower fever and reduce the inflammation present.
Indian Herbal Home Remedies
- Holy Basil: Make a tea of 1 teaspoon holy basil (tulsi) steeped in 1 cup hot water. Add 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and 1 teaspoon honey. Take this 2 or 3 times a day.
- Maha Sudarshan Churna: Another excellent formula to bring down chronic fever is 1/2 teaspoon maha sudarshan churna mixed with 1 teaspoon tikta ghrita (bitter ghee). Take this 3 times a day on an empty stomach.
- Mustard Oil Compress: Apply a cloth with mustard oil to the forehead to ease the pain and reduce fever.
- Fenugreek + Lemon + Honey: Fenugreek with lemon and honey will help to bring down body temperature and soothe aching limbs. OR Drink hot lemon and honey in a cup of warm water to ease inflammation.
- Cinnamon + Ginger: Mix coriander 2 parts, cinnamon 2 parts and ginger 1 part. Steep 1 teaspoon of this mixture in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes before drinking. You can drink this every few hours until the fever breaks.
- Cumin + Coriander + Fennel: Mix cumin seeds, coriander seeds and fennel seeds in equal proportions. Use 1 teaspoon of your mixture in a cup of boiling water; steep for 10 minutes, strain, and drink.
- Ginger and Coriander: Both ginger and coriander are useful in treating colds. To make a decoction, brown 4 tablespoons of coriander seeds. Once the seeds are browned, add 4 cups of water and bring to the boil. Add 4 slices of root ginger and reduce the liquid to 2 cups and strain. Drink to reduce a fever. Try Ginger tea or eat candied ginger or sip ginger ale. Add peppermint to fever fighting teas.
Caution
If your forehead is fiery with fever, you could reach for acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to lower your temperature. (Don’t treat fevers with aspirin in anyone under the age of 18; doing so can trigger a potentially fatal disease called Reye’s syndrome.). If your fever is 38.3°C (101°F) or below, don’t be afraid. If any of the following condition is present, call a doctor or seek immediate attention: fever in a baby under 4 months old, fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit in an adult, fever above 101 degrees in a person over age 60, fever that lasts longer than 3 days, fever accompanied by a severe headache and a stiff neck, any fever in a person who has a chronic illness such as heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory disease.
FAQs.
Q. Is 101 a high fever for adults?
No, it is generally considered high when it reaches 103°F (39.4°C) or higher. Normal body temperature is typically around 98.6°F (37°C). Fever temperature is considered to be above 100.4°F (38°C).
Q. When is fever too high?
Consider body temperature too high when it exceeds 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 degrees Celsius). Monitor temperatures over 103 degrees Fahrenheit closely and seek medical attention if it does not respond to treatment or is accompanied by other symptoms.
Q. My body temperature was 99.8. Do I have a fever?
No, you do not have it. The average body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, so your body temperature is slightly lower than normal.
Q. What is the core body temperature?
Core body temperature is typically around 98.6°F (37°C). A fever is a higher-than-normal body temperature, usually above 100.4°F (38°C).
Q. Does a fever occur due to a lack of any vitamin?
No, it is not caused by a lack of any vitamin. Fevers are caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, autoimmune disorders, or other medical conditions.
Q. Is it normal to have a fever after 3 days of tooth extraction?
It is not normal to have it. If you have a fever after 3 days of tooth extraction, you should contact your dentist or doctor immediately as it could be a sign of an infection.
Q. Can sinusitis cause a fever?
Yes, sinusitis can cause a fever. Other symptoms of sinusitis include headache, facial pain and pressure, nasal congestion, and a thick, discolored discharge from the nose.
Q. Can a fever cause back pain?
Yes, it can cause back pain in certain cases. For example, a high fever can cause muscle aches, which can lead to back pain. Additionally, certain infections or illnesses, such as influenza, can cause back pain in addition to a fever. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any combination of symptoms, including a fever and back pain.
Q. What are the 4 stages of fever?
- Prodrome: The initial stage features discomfort, chills, body aches, headache, and a general feeling of being unwell. This stage typically occurs 12-24 hours before the onset of fever, marked by uneasiness, fatigue, body aches, and chills.
- Plateau (Peak Stage): This is the stage where the body temperature is at its highest and the body is fighting off the infection. During this stage, the body’s temperature increases to its highest level, usually between 102 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It is usually accompanied by a feeling of extreme lethargy, shivering, and headaches. Other symptoms includes chills, sweating, and body aches may become more intense.
- Defervescence (Resolving Stage): This is the stage when the fever begins to break and the body’s temperature begins to drop. The patient begins to feel better. It is marked by the patient’s sweating and a gradual decrease in body temperature. Symptoms may begin to improve, but the person may still feel tired and weak.
- Convalescent Stage: This is the last stage and is characterized by the complete recovery of energy and strength. During this stage, the fever has broken and the body has returned to its normal temperature.
Q. What are the causes of fever?
- Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections.
- Vaccinations: Vaccines may cause a mild rise in temperature as the body builds immunity.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Certain autoimmune disorders, such as lupus.
- Medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics.
- Cancer: Some types of cancer.
- Heat Exposure: Spending too much time in the sun or in a hot environment.
Q. How do I recover from fever fast? What are some remedies? How to reduce fever in child naturally?
Home treatment includes:
- Drinking warm water with fresh ginger, lemon, and honey.
- Taking a warm bath with essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint.
- Consuming herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, or ginger.
- Applying a paste of sandalwood and rosewater to the forehead.
- Taking an Ayurvedic herbal formula or syrup for relief.
- Doing light exercises like yoga, walking, or pranayama.
- Taking a few days of rest and avoiding strenuous activities.
Q. Which fruits are better in fever?
- Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruit are high in vitamin C and can help boost your immune system, which can help fight off infection and reduce fever.
- Bananas are full of electrolytes and potassium, which can help replace lost nutrients if you are suffering from dehydration due to a fever.
- Apples are a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system.
- Watermelon is a great source of hydration and is full of vitamins and minerals that can help reduce body temperature.
- Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation and the symptoms.
Q. Why is kiwi eaten in a fever?
Kiwi fruit is not typically recommended. It is a nutritious food, however, and can be a beneficial addition to a balanced diet. Eating kiwi while suffering from a fever may help replace lost fluids and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Q. What is the best food for babies suffering with cold and fever?
The best food for babies suffering with cold is soups and broths. Soups and broths help to hydrate the body, provide essential nutrients and minerals, and are easy to digest. Additionally, adding a bit of ginger or garlic to the soup may help to reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and provide relief from cold and symptoms.
Q. Is it bad to shower with cold water when you have a fever?
No, showering with cold water when you have a fever is generally not bad. In fact, it may even help to reduce your fever. Cold water can help to cool your body down, which may help to reduce your body temperature. However, if you are feeling particularly weak or dizzy, it is advisable to consult with a doctor before showering with cold water.
Q. Which dry fruit is good in fever?
Dried apricots are a great dried fruit to include in a diet. The high levels of vitamin A and C in apricots can help boost the immune system and fight the infection causing the fever. Eating apricots can also help to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
Q. What is Valley fever?
Valley fever is a fungal infection caused by the fungus Coccidioides, which lives in desert soil in certain parts of the United States, Mexico, and Central and South America. When the soil is disturbed, the fungus disperses in the air, and people can become infected by inhaling the fungal spores. Symptoms may include fever, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and muscle aches. In some cases, more serious symptoms can occur. Treat Valley fever with antifungal medications; most people recover within a few weeks.
Q. How do I improve taste buds after a fever?
- Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy taste buds. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths, can help to keep your taste buds functioning properly.
- Eat a balanced diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods can help to restore the sensitivity of taste buds. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean proteins can help to ensure that your taste buds are functioning properly.
- Avoid spicy foods: Spicy foods can irritate the taste buds and make them less sensitive. Avoiding spicy foods can help to improve the sensitivity of your taste buds.
- Rinse your mouth: Rinsing your mouth with plain water can help to remove any residue that may be impacting your sense of taste.
- Practice tongue exercises: Moving your tongue around your mouth and making exaggerated chewing motions can help to stimulate the taste buds. Doing this several times a day can help to improve your sense of taste.
Q. What drink can cure fever?
It is important to stay well hydrated. Drink plenty of water as well as other fluids such as electrolyte drinks, clear broth, and fruit juices. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
Q. Is Ginger good for fever?
Ginger is a traditional home remedy, and some research suggests that it may help to reduce body temperature in adults. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. You should always consult a healthcare professional before using ginger as a treatment for fever.
Q. What is the effect of cold air on fever?
Cold air does not have a direct effect on it. Generally, fevers are caused by an infection and the body’s natural response to it. Cold air may make you feel more comfortable, but it will not reduce the fever itself. In some cases, cold air may even make a fever worse.
Q. How to break a fever fast in a child?
- Give your child plenty of fluids: Offer your child plenty of fluids to help break the fever, such as water, diluted fruit juice.
- Dress your child lightly: Dress your child in lightweight clothing, and use a light blanket or sheet when needed.
- Give your child a lukewarm bath: Giving your child a lukewarm bath can help bring down their body temperature.
- Use a fever reducer: If your child’s body temperature is higher than 102°F (38.9°C), you can give them an appropriate dose of a fever reducer.
- Place a cool washcloth on your child’s forehead: Placing a cool, damp washcloth on your child’s forehead can help.
Q. Why do I feel cold when I have a high fever?
When your body is fighting an illness or infection, it will often raise your temperature in order to kill off the unwanted invaders. In response to this increase in temperature, your body will start to shiver as a way to cool down and return your body to a normal temperature. This is why you may feel cold while having a high fever.
Q. How can we save ourselves from a viral fever?
- Get vaccinated: Vaccines can help protect you from catching some types of viral infections.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and avoid sharing items with people who are sick.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick: If someone around you is sick, keep a distance of at least two meters from them.
- Wear a mask: Wear a face mask when you are around people who are sick or if you are in a crowded place.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet can boost your immune system and help you fight off infections.
- Get enough sleep: Getting seven to eight hours of sleep a night can help keep your immune system strong.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth: This can help reduce your risk of catching a virus.
Q. What is the best medicine for a fever? How to get rid of a fever in 24 hours?
- Take Fever Reducer Medicine: Taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce body temperature and associated symptoms such as body aches and chills. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label and drink plenty of fluids while taking the medication.
- Apply a cool compress: Applying a cool compress to the forehead and other parts of the body can help lower the body temperature. You can use a damp cloth, a cold pack, or a cold compress.
- Take a cool bath: Taking a cool bath or shower can also help. Make sure to avoid using hot water, as this can actually raise your body temperature.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated is an important part of helping to reduce a fever. Drink plenty of water or other fluids such as juice, tea, or broth.
- Get some rest: It’s important to rest when you have a fever. This will help your body focus its energy on fighting the infection and getting better.
Q. What is Ayurvedic treatment for a fever?
Ayurveda is a system of traditional medicine native to India. It is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a balance between the mind, body, and spirit. In Ayurveda, fever is seen as a sign that the body is fighting an infection. To treat the condition, Ayurvedic practitioners may use herbs, massage, and lifestyle changes to help the body heal. People often use herbs such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric to reduce fever and inflammation. Massage and steam inhalation are also common remedies. In addition, lifestyle changes such as avoiding certain foods, practicing yoga, and getting enough rest can also help support the body’s healing process.