Fever, a natural defense of the body

Fever: one of the defenses of our body

Fever is one of the most important and effective signals our body has to alert us that something is wrong. It is characterized by a temporary increase in body temperature in response to an illness, usually an infection.

Body temperature

There is no reference regarding how long a febrile state can last, as this will be determined by particular aspects of the patient such as age or the type of infection or disease they are suffering from.

Thermometers are used to measure body temperature. There are two types: the most common are glass thermometers, but recently electronic ones have become more commonly used.

Fever can be measured in the armpit, in the mouth, or in the buttocks through the rectum. A person is said to have a fever when their temperature is above 37.2–37.5ºC, or more than 38ºC if measured rectally.

There are numerous factors that can alter our body temperature and that we must consider to avoid misdiagnosing a false state of fever: Our body temperature varies throughout the day; for example, it is known that it is higher at night.

During the second phase of the woman’s menstrual cycle, her body temperature can be elevated by up to one degree. Similarly, after engaging in physical activity or experiencing strong emotions, temperature can be altered.

Although it may seem obvious, wearing excessively thick clothing, an excessively high ambient temperature, or a very humid environment can influence our body temperature.

Finally, it is important to know how certain medications can affect our body to consider whether they may impact our body temperature.

What is the function of fever as a natural defense of the body

Hostile environment: most microorganisms require a temperature of 37ºC to survive. Our body, aware of this, raises this temperature to inhibit their growth.

Antibodies: with an increase in temperature, the production of white blood cells increases, which are essential to combat this type of threat to our body.

Increased blood pumping: this way, white blood cells reach the affected area in greater numbers to eliminate harmful microorganisms.

How to treat fever, a natural defense of the body

• When attempting to treat fever, it is important to remember that the goal is not to make it disappear, as this would harm our health, but to lower it enough to improve the patient’s health. Some tips to achieve this would be:
• The most effective and necessary remedy is rest.
• Even if the patient requests it and especially if they feel chills, it is not advisable to cover them too much. Regarding bedding, it is best to use cotton or linen, as it absorbs sweat better.
• The room should not be too hot or poorly ventilated; if necessary, a fan could be used.
• Moisten the forehead or chest area with lukewarm water using a sponge or a damp cloth. A lukewarm bath (never cold, as it could cause the patient to shiver, consequently increasing temperature) could also be useful. Both methods are effective.
• It is important to replenish our body with fluids to prevent dehydration. The most recommended are water and natural juices (not boxed), as other types of drinks like tea, coffee, or cola cause the patient to urinate more, which, along with sweating, could have the opposite effect.

Despite what has generally been believed, applying ice to the body or rubbing with alcohol is not recommended, as although they cool the skin, they often cause an increase in temperature by inducing shivering.

• Finally and importantly, chiropractic spinal adjustments help the body fight viruses by strengthening the immune system and thus increasing its natural defenses.

Marc Bony, DC www.quiropractica1.com