Fever Myths Vs Facts: Fever is one of the very common health conditions, however, many myths surround it. Knowing what is real and what is not contributes to managing fever case without unwarranted fear.
Fact: Fever is not a disease; rather, it is a symptom. The body is often fighting an infection when a person has fever, which could be caused by either a virus or bacteria. Treat the root cause; that is what matters and not the fear of the fever itself.
Fact: While very serious cases should indeed consult services for body temperature at its highest above 104° or 40°C, moderately high fevers cannot always be said to be dangerous. Very high temperatures may occur sometimes with mild viral infections that, however, are not life-threatening.
Fact: Fever is one of the natural body’s defense mechanisms against infections. Fever-reducing medications, when not required, would, at times, interfere with the recovery process. Most of the times, doctors recommend treating fever when it is giving undue discomfort.
Fact: Using extreme cooling may lead to shivering, which would increase body temperature. Lukewarm sponging, wearing loosely to allow ventilation, and drinking fluids to stay hydrated are much safer alternatives.
Fact: Children do get fevers much greater than adults, but that certainly does not equate to a serious illness. Better indicators of severity are displayed behavior, level of alertness, and hydration, rather than the thermometer reading alone.
Also Read: Can You Really Eat Chicken When Having a Fever?
Fever is often misunderstood because of persistent myths. Realizing that it actually is a natural defense mechanisms lowers unnecessary panic. Do see a doctor in case the fever remains for too long, is too high, or is associated with worrying symptoms-but realize, not all fevers do the harm.