Fever: A Natural Defense of the Body

Fever is a vital response of our organism, a natural defense of the body that alerts us to possible infections. Understanding its function is essential for maintaining good health.

fever is one of the defenses of our body

Fever is one of the most important and effective signals our body has to warn us that something is not right. It is characterized by a temporary increase in body temperature in response to an illness, usually an infection.

Body temperature

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

Thermometers are used to measure body temperature. There are two types: the most common are glass thermometers, but lately, electronic ones are 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 many factors that can alter our body temperature and that we must take into account to avoid diagnosing a false state of fever: Our body temperature varies throughout the day; for example, it is important to know 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 some type of physical activity or experiencing strong emotions, the 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 will be important to know how certain medications can influence our body to consider whether they may affect our body temperature.

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

Hostile environment: most microorganisms need 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, essential for combating this type of threat to our organism.

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

How to treat Fever, a natural defense of the body

• When trying to treat fever, it is important to remember that the goal is not to make it disappear, as that 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. As for 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 make the patient shiver, consequently causing an increase in temperature) could also be useful. Both methods are effective.
• It is important to replenish our body with fluids to avoid 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, with chiropractic spinal adjustments, you help the body fight against viruses by strengthening the immune system function and thus increasing its natural defenses.

Marc Bony, DC www.quiropractica1.com