Why do you run a fever?

Why Do We Get Fevers?

A fever is a body's natural response to an infection. When the body is invaded by bacteria or viruses, the immune system kicks into action to fight off the invaders. This process, called inflammation, causes the body to release chemicals that raise the body's temperature.

A fever is not a bad thing. In fact, it is a sign that the body is working to heal itself. However, a high fever can be dangerous, especially for young children and the elderly. If your fever reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, you should seek medical attention.

How Does a Fever Work?

When the body is invaded by bacteria or viruses, the immune system releases chemicals called pyrogens. These pyrogens travel to the hypothalamus, a small gland in the brain that controls body temperature. The hypothalamus then raises the body's temperature in an attempt to kill the invading microorganisms.

A fever also helps the body to fight infection by:

* Increasing the production of white blood cells, which are cells that fight infection.

* Slowing down the growth of bacteria and viruses.

* Helping the body to absorb nutrients and medicines.

What Are the Symptoms of a Fever?

In addition to a high temperature, a fever can also cause the following symptoms:

* Chills

* Sweating

* Headache

* Muscle aches

* Joint pain

* Fatigue

* Loss of appetite

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Diarrhea

When to Seek Medical Attention

You should seek medical attention if your fever reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, or if you have a fever and any of the following symptoms:

* A rash

* Stiff neck

* Severe headache

* Confusion

* Seizures

* Difficulty breathing

* Chest pain

* Abdominal pain

* Vomiting blood

* Diarrhea that contains blood or mucus

How to Treat a Fever

There are a number of things you can do to treat a fever, including:

* Rest. Getting plenty of rest will help your body to fight off the infection.

* Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help to prevent dehydration, which can occur when you have a fever.

* Take over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) are two common over-the-counter medications that can be used to reduce fever and pain.

* Apply a cool compress to your forehead or neck. This can help to lower your body temperature.

* Take a lukewarm bath. This can also help to lower your body temperature.

When to Call the Doctor

Call your doctor if:

-Your child is under 2 months old and has a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

-Your child is 2 to 12 years old and has a fever of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

-Your child has a fever that lasts for more than 3 days.

-Your child has a fever and any of the following symptoms:

rash

stiff neck

severe headache

confusion

seizures

difficulty breathing

chest pain

abdominal pain

vomiting blood

diarrhea that contains blood or mucus