Fever or hyperthermia is a common symptom of many illnesses, including the flu and the common cold. It is defined as a body temperature of >37.8c. It is caused by an elevation in body temperature, which is usually a sign that the body is fighting off an infection or an illness. In this article, let us learn some tips on how to manage fever at home and when to call your doctor for help.
One common question people have when they have a fever is whether or not it is safe to take a bath. The answer is a big yes, it is generally safe to take a bath when you have a fever. In fact, taking a lukewarm bath can help to lower your body temperature, which can provide relief from fever symptoms like chills and sweating. It can also freshen you up and make you feel more comfortable.
It is important to note that while taking a bath can help to lower your body temperature, it is not a substitute for other fever-reducing measures, such as taking medication or getting plenty of rest. Additionally, it is important to keep the water temperature lukewarm, as taking a hot bath can actually raise your body temperature, which can make your fever worse.
In addition to taking a lukewarm bath, there are several other ways to manage fever at home:
- Take over-the-counter medication: Antipyretic medications such as Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are easily available in the pharmacy. However, be sure to take the right dosage as advised by your physician especially for pediatric patients wherein weight is computed for the safe dosage.
- stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help to keep your body hydrated and prevent dehydration, which is a common complication of fever. You need extra fluids such as water if you’re having a fever.
- Get plenty of rest: Your body needs extra energy to fight off the infection or illness that is causing your fever, so it is important to get plenty of rest.
- Dress in light clothing: Wearing light, breathable clothing can help to keep your body cool and reduce fever symptoms like chills and sweating.
- Keep your environment cool: Keep your room cool by using a fan or air conditioning, this will help reduce fever symptoms.
- Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your temperature and other symptoms, such as headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. If your fever persists for more than a few days or if your symptoms worsen, it is important to see a doctor so you can be assessed thoroughly.
In conclusion, it’s important to keep in mind that fever is a natural response of the body to fight off infection or illness and it is not always necessary to bring down the fever. Taking a lukewarm bath is generally safe when you have a fever, and can help to lower your body temperature and provide relief from fever symptoms. However, it is important to use this method in combination with other fever-reducing measures, such as taking medication and getting plenty of rest.
About The Author
Dr. Verns is a highly-skilled and compassionate physician who obtained her medical degree from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila College of Medicine in 2014, and passed the Physician Licensure Exam in August of 2015. She is a certified Family Physician given by the Philippine Association of Family Physicians, and received her Diplomate in Family Medicine in 2022 and landed as top 6 in overall rankings in the Philippines. She is also a registered nurse both in the Philippines and the United States, having passed the US Nursing Licensure Exam in 2007.
Dr. Verns is a strong advocate of preventive care and believes that it makes a huge difference in the outcome of disease development. In the future, she is looking to further her education and training to become a diabetologist or lifestyle medicine fellow.
