Fever: When and how should it be lowered?

19.12.2017, 16:35 | ah (CF)

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Fever is not a disease, but a body reaction of the immune system – usually to an infection caused by viruses or bacteria. The rise in temperature makes sense because it serves to ward off pathogens. Nevertheless, high body temperatures also place a considerable strain on the body.

Measuring fever correctly: How it works

In order to be able to assess whether it is a fever, it is important to measure the temperature correctly with a fever thermometer. You should do this in the morning and evening or when you start to feel feverish.

In addition to the time of day, the type of measurement can lead to different results. Dr. Wesiack, specialist for internal medicine in Hamburg, recommends: “The most reliable measurement is the rectal measurement in the anus. Under the tongue, the temperature is 0.3 to 0.5 degrees lower, measurements under the armpits or at other skin areas are unreliable.”

Home remedies for common diseases

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Digital clinical thermometers are best suited for measurement. Infrared thermometers, which are mainly used in medical practices and hospitals, determine the temperature in the ear. Many people consider this to be the most pleasant method, but incorrect use can quickly lead to falsified results. Mercury thermometers are rarely used in the household because they measure very inaccurately and there is a risk of poisoning if the thermometer leaks.

When does one even speak of a fever?

If the thermometer indicates 38 degrees Celsius, one can speak of fever. In most cases, an infection is the trigger. At a higher temperature, defence mechanisms in the body run faster. Fever is therefore very useful for the organism. However, there are situations in which the fever must be lowered: There are people who are prone to fever cramps or to whom the fever simply gets too severe, for example chronically ill people. A doctor should decide how to proceed in detail.

Avoid overexertion

If you have a fever, it is particularly important that you avoid unnecessary exertion and do not strain your body excessively. In addition to a bed and a sofa, a lounger in the garden or on the balcony is a suitable place to relax when the weather is fine.

Dry mucous membranes are an accompanying phenomenon of flu and fever. Doctors recommend drinking a lot as a countermeasure. Alternatively or additionally, you can keep the mucous membranes moist by inhaling with a camomile infusion or a saline solution.

When fever becomes dangerous

Various studies have shown that the majority of people do not even know when fever is harmless and when it is really dangerous. If you have a cold, it can happen that the temperature climbs to 38.5 degrees Celsius. In most cases, the temperature drops back to 37 degrees in the evening if you have drunk enough during the day.

If the fever does not drop after three days, you should consult a doctor. Especially people who are older than 70 years or suffer from serious pre-existing conditions should consult a doctor at 39 degrees Celsius at the latest.

If children have a slight fever, you don’t have to worry right away. Often this only means that they get teeth. However, if your child is over 39.5 degrees Celsius, you should take him to the doctor, as children in particular often suffer from fever cramps, which can even become life-threatening if left untreated.

From 40 degrees Celsius fever should be lowered

At temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius at the latest, you should take medication or an old household remedy to deal with the fever: Cold compresses on the extremities and, if this is not enough, pharmacy-prescribed antipyretics can help. If the fever persists, it is time to see a doctor.

In the case of fever below 39 degrees Celsius, Dr. Wesiack advises against medication for the time being. Fever is part of the healing process and supports the body in the fight against pathogens. So it’s better to use well-known household remedies such as calf compresses rather than tablets.

Important note: The information is in no way a substitute for professional advice or treatment by trained and recognised doctors. The contents of t-online.de cannot and must not be used to independently make diagnoses or start treatments.