Fever: when can it really be considered a fever?
Fever is a typical side effect of colds and flu and is particularly common in children.
This is a normal defensive reaction put in place by our body: in fact, if an infection occurs, the body increases its temperature in order to strengthen the immune system.
In these situations, the fever therefore has a positive function, so to speak; but when do you start talking about real fever so much that you have to be alarmed? Let's see it below.
Before proceeding, we remind you of the "importance of" a healthy and balanced diet to stay healthy and prevent, among other things, colds and flu.
In this period affected by the CODIV-19 emergency, however, a clarification must be made in this regard.
In the event that you have symptoms attributable to the virus, including fever and persistent cough, or even if you have simply been in risk areas or in contact with people who have tested positive, it is important that you call your family doctor, pediatrician or numbers regional greens, which you can find on the Minstero della Salute website.
You can also contact the public utility number 1500 of the Ministry of Health or, but only if strictly necessary, the single emergency number 112.
It is essential that you absolutely do not go to the emergency room, but that you communicate with doctors and health professionals through these telephone numbers to inform them of your symptoms and understand how you need to move.
See also
When do we really start talking about fever?
A body temperature between 36 and 37.4 ° is to be considered normal. This can also fluctuate throughout the day, for example it can increase after exercise.
But when we are over 37.5 °, how should we behave? If this number is exceeded, it is best to start paying attention and see your doctor.In this period of emergency, it is precisely starting from this temperature that it is suggested to keep the situation monitored, especially if it does not drop over the course of the days and should be accompanied by symptoms, such as dry cough and shortness of breath. Therefore, in this specific circumstance, it is advisable not to leave the house and consult the aforementioned telephone numbers.
Under normal conditions, it is starting from 38-38.5 degrees that we must speak of real cold and not a simple high temperature.
Fever in children
In children, the situation is somewhat different: the temperature limit is slightly lower, especially in infants and very young children. A temperature of 38 ° is already considered a fever and must therefore be a reason for consulting the pediatrician.
How is fever correctly measured?
There are several methods of measurement: in the ear, in the mouth, in the armpit or rectally.
The most accurate is undoubtedly the latter, especially in children.
The others, although reliable, are not as precise and accurate as the rectal method. Moreover, they often record a slightly lower temperature than the real one.
Effective methods of reducing fever
A mild fever is harmless in most cases. This, as mentioned, stimulates the immune system and fights any ongoing infection. But when should the fever be lowered? If the temperature rises to 39 degrees or higher, antipyretic measures must be taken.
The following options are helpful in helping to reduce fever:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)
- Antipyretics, such as acetaminophen.
In any case, before taking drugs, it is good to report the symptoms to the doctor.
Antibiotics, useful only when bacterial superinfection is present, are ineffective in the case of a simple flu.
As already specified above, in the event of a suspected coronavirus, it is essential to consult the telephone numbers indicated above and strictly follow their instructions.
Useful tips for when you have a fever
In addition to antipyretic measures, there are other remedies that can be useful in case of not too high fever:
- Drink a lot
- Rest and sleep for a long time
- Avoid physical exertion
Then there are some natural remedies that can help us, including foot baths, lime blossom tea and other tea drinks that reduce fever.
Staying hydrated, resting and avoiding stress are all concrete aids to speed up the healing process.
For more information on fever, you can consult the humanitas hospital medical website
