Why should fever be controlled?
A higher body temperature creates an inhospitable environment for many invading bugs to grow and replicate. For example, high temperatures reduce iron levels in the blood, and bacteria have trouble reproducing. Fevers also appear to boost the immune system to fight off infection.
Why might having a fever that is too high be dangerous?
Fever is a rise in body temperature, usually caused by infection. Fevers caused by viral illnesses shouldn’t be treated with antibiotics, since these drugs have no effect against viruses. High fever (about 41.5°C or more) is extremely dangerous and could trigger convulsions.
Is a fever a good thing when sick?
Fever is part of your body’s defense against infection-causing germs. By itself, fever is usually harmless, though a high fever can be miserable. These steps may help you feel better: Drink plenty of fluids to help cool your body and prevent dehydration.
Does a fever help fight the flu?
Fever—Fevers fight influenza viruses. Because viruses are sensitive to temperature changes and cannot survive above normal body heat, your body uses fever to help destroy them. Muscle Aches and Pain—You may experience sore muscles with the flu as it is also a product of your body’s immune response.
When does a fever become dangerous?
Dangerous temperatures are high-grade fevers that range from over 104 F to 107 F. Low-grade fevers range from about 100 F-101 F; 102 F is intermediate grade for adults but a temperature at which adults should seek medical care for an infant (0-6 months). High-grade fevers range from about 103 F-104 F.
Why does temperature increase with infection?
Your body reacts and heats up When you have an infection, you make lots of these cells. They work faster to try and fight off the infection. The increase in these white blood cells affects your hypothalamus. This makes your body heat up, causing a fever.