Contents:
- Medical Video: Why You Shouldn’t Fight A Fever
- The danger of a cold compress during a fever
- So, what is the right way to reduce fever?
- 1. Increase rest
- 2. Fill in fluid intake
- 3. Take medication
Medical Video: Why You Shouldn’t Fight A Fever
Cold compresses are a classic trick to relieve fever that has been passed down from generation to time. But did you know that this method is wrong and can actually harm the body?
The danger of a cold compress during a fever
Fever is the body's natural response to infections caused by viruses or bacteria. A person is said to have a fever when his body temperature is higher than 37º Celsius, his body is shivering or sweating, and feels weak, a headache, and pain in his body.
People's favorite way to relieve fever is to soak the cloth in a container of water filled with ice cubes and attach it to the forehead. Cold temperatures are thought to absorb body heat so the fever will quickly drop.
In fact, doctors and health experts around the world have never advised us to compress cold when having a fever. Fever is the body's way to keep its temperature normal. However, the cold temperature stimulation of the compress is actually considered a threat by your immune system so that the body will increasingly increase its temperature. As a result, the fever doesn't even go down - it might even get worse. The same thing happens when you rest in an air-conditioned room or take a cold shower while having a fever.
That's why avoid using cold compresses or cold baths when you have a fever. Cold compresses are more appropriate to deal with inflammation or swelling, for example, sprained legs or bump heads hit the door.
So, what is the right way to reduce fever?
Here is the first aid you should take when dealing with a child or adult with fever.
1. Increase rest
Fever is actually a signal from the body so you rest. The condition of your body is weak when a fever if forced to continue to move it will actually worsen your condition. That is why, when you have a fever, immediately stop the activity and rest in a comfortable place.
2. Fill in fluid intake
Increased body temperature during a fever can cause loss of body fluids, making you prone to dehydration. That's the reason, repair fluid intake when you have a fever. In addition to preventing dehydration, fluids that enter the body will also be released through sweat and urine to help lower your body temperature.
The important thing to note, is not only the large amount of liquid consumed, but also the type of beverage that you will consume.
3. Take medication
Fever drugs are usually only needed if your body temperature reaches 39 degrees Celsius or more. You can take paracetamol (acetaminophen), ibuprofen, or aspirin. These drugs are easily found at drugstores or pharmacies without a prescription. Don't forget, always read the packaging label properly for the right dose before using the drug.
However, if you experience a high fever that does not improve and the administration of febrifuge does not work to treat your condition, immediately consult a doctor to get further help.
