FEVER - Common Medical Advice

General Information

Fever is a generalized condition where the body temperature is higher than the normal 37°C (100°F) as measured by an oral thermometer or 37.7°C as measured rectally. Pain and/or mild fever may accompany a viral infection such as the common cold, and influenza. Other symptoms of a viral infection include aching muscles and feeling generally unwell. Fever may be a symptom of another condition, especially in cases where it occurs with another symptom, i.e. sinusitis (with headache and nasal congestion), measles (with a rash), etc. Aside from bacterial and viral infection, other causes of fever include cancer, allergies, hormonal disorders, autoimmune diseases, or hypothalamic damage. Fever can have a positive role as part of the body's defense against some infections. Most mild fevers are self-limiting and will clear up on their own accord. Some medications may cause fever, e.g. certain antibiotics, antihistamines, quinine.

Signs and Symptoms

• Slight shivering
• Pain in the head and various parts of the body
• Thirst and great lassitude.
• Scanty urine flow
• As the fever rises, the pulse and respiration become faster. Finally, there is profuse sweating, a copious flow of concentrated urine, and general relief of symptoms.

Advice to the Customers

• Be aware of the warning signs, e.g. delirium, vomiting., diarrhea, etc.
• A cold bath or cold compress will often provide comfort and bring down the temperature of the patient.
• Wear light clothing and keep bedding light. Warm clothing may only hold the heat and make the patient more uncomfortable.
• Drink plenty of water (at least 8 glasses) or rehydration fluid as fever can cause dehydration.
• Check that the person knows how to use a thermometer

Prescription Advice

• Instruct the patient on the medication and how to use it properly, i.e. name of the medication, frequency of dosage, etc.
• In cases where fever has not improved or is exacerbated, instruct the patient to consult a physician.
• Inform the patient of the side effects accompanying the use of NSAIDs, e.g., gastric irritation and ulcers.
• Discuss Advice to the customers thoroughly for more information on the prevention and management of fever.