Well, fever is simply rise in body temperature. Normally
our body temperature is usually around 98.6 degree Fahrenheit
or 37 degree Celsius. Some people have body temperature
slightly more or less than the above values.
Our brain has a centre called the hypothalamus (pronounced
as hi-po-th-la-muss) that maintains our normal body
temperature. Due to some infection, germs or just heat
stroke, the brain sets a new temperature and the body
temperature rises till it reaches the new set point.
Because, your body is now set at a higher temperature,
you will feel hot, shivering and even feel cold till
your body reaches the new set temperature. When you
take treatment for the fever, the set point again comes
down to around 37 degree Celsius. Hence, your body starts
losing heat in form of sweating till the temperature
is back to normal.
Usually a fever less than 100 degree Fahrenheit does
not require any medicine. Your doctor may prescribe
drugs to bring down the fever. You will be advised to
drink lots of liquid as your body may become dehydrated
if it gets hot. You may also be given a cold sponge
to bring down the temperature if it is too high. And
do not forget nothing is better than a good rest.
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