A Fever is when the body's temperature is higher than normal. A fever is a natural response to infection, or the body's response to an underlying disease.
A Fever is also the human body's defense mechanism to fight off disease or germs. Generally fevers above 104 degrees fahrenheit could prove fatal and have the possibility of causing brain damage. http://www.thechildrenshospital.org/wellness/at_home/fever/fever_myths.aspx
Fevers or symptoms of fevers should not be taken lightly, fevers could be a symptom but not limited to a generally greater illness.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have a Fever, please consult your doctor.
Cause
The part of the brain called hypothalamus controls body temperature. Viruses and bacteria that causes infections survive at the normal body temperature so as a defense the body naturally raises the body temperature to make if more difficult for the infection to survive. A fever will also activate the immune system.
Treatment
A fever is a symptom, not an illness in itself. Other accompanying symptoms help to diagnose what is causing the fever. Fevers are not usually a cause for alarm unless they are higher than 102 degrees F. In most cases administering acetaminophen will provide relief. Very young children and infants that have a fever need to be taken to a doctor because even a slight elevation in temperature could be a sign of a serious infection.
Fever Discussion and Blogs
MedHelp: Fever Posts
Daily Strength: Fever Posts
OUPBlog: Fever on the Brain (April 13, 2007)
KavataL: Shows difference between fever and heat stroke! The Body: Forum on Understanding Your Labs: HIV AND STRANGE BODY TEMPERATURE (March 11, 2002)
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References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Many causes
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Fact:
Natural response
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Fact:
Thermometer should be used to check temperature
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Thermometer types
glass mercury or digital
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Places to check temperature
Oral, rectal, armpit, ear
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Fact:
Infants under 6 weeks old with a fever should be taken to a doctor immediately
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Fact:
Children under 3 months old with a temperature of 100.4 degrees F. should be seen by a doctor
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Fact:
Not recommended to treat if under 102 degrees F
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Prevention
Hand washing, reduce exposure to infections
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Treatment
Over the counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, bed rest, drink plenty of fluids
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Fact:
Brain damage will not generally occur unless the fever is over 107.6
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Fact:
Aspirin should not be used to control fever in children or adolescents
