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Viral fevers are high-temperature fevers that can occur as a result of viral infections. Viral fevers can vary in their temperature, typically ranging from 37.2°C to 39.4°C. Temperatures that exceed 37.8°C are considered a mild fever, while anything above 39°C is categorised as a high fever. Reasons can range from minor conditions like the common cold to more severe illnesses such as dengue, which is still prevalent in many regions of India1. In this blog, we will explore causes, symptoms, and simple home remedies for viral fever to effectively manage symptoms and improve recovery.
Synopsis
Causes of Viral Fever
Viral fever acts as the body’s defence mechanism against infection, as the rise in body temperature creates an environment less favourable for the virus, making it harder for the infection to thrive. Causes for viral fever can depend on the type of virus that invades your body, like influenza, adenovirus, rhinovirus, rotavirus, Zika virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), coronavirus, etc. These viruses can be transmitted by person-to-person contact, inhalation of viral droplets, through drinks or foods, contaminated water, or by insects or rodents.
Symptoms of Viral Fever
General symptoms for viral fever include high-temperature fever and chills, accompanied by weakness, sore throat, muscle pain, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, vomiting/nausea, burning of eyes, skin rashes, dehydration, headache, runny nose, and facial swelling. Symptoms of viral fever can vary among infants, children, and adults. In all cases, medical attention is required if the temperature exceeds 38°C, experiences severe symptoms, does not respond to medications, or if the symptoms persist for more than 3 days.
Simple Home Remedies for Viral Fever Symptoms
Not all viral fevers that come require medical attention. In most cases, relief is obtained by allowing the illness to run its course. For a comfortable recovery, you can try home remedies to treat viral fever. Some simple homemade remedies for viral fever include:
1. Consume Plenty of Fluids
Viral fever can make you dehydrated due to excessive sweating as the body tries to cool itself down. This can lead to a significant loss of fluids and electrolytes from the body. Therefore, it is necessary to drink fluids, like juice, broth, or soups. In the case of infants, formulated drinks can help them compensate for the nutrients lost.
2. Get Proper Sleep
Rest is an important part of recovery. It is necessary to get at least 7 hours of sleep or more and avoid or put on hold any activity that requires physical exertion. Moreover, eat a light meal before bed. Proper sleep can help you recover as soon as possible and boost your immune system.
3. Sticking to Light and Healthy Food
Foods like rice porridge or kanji, vegetable/chicken broth, coconut water, vitamin C-rich fruits (e.g., oranges and sweet limes), and leafy greens can help combat lethargy and replenish lost energy. It is good to avoid caffeinated beverages or fast foods during your recovery.
4. Manage Fevers With Over-the-counter (OTC) Medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide some relief while you have a viral fever. Some of the common OTC drugs to combat viral fevers include ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, or acetaminophen. However, necessary precautions should be taken while taking OTC drugs. It is important to avoid giving aspirin to children or increasing the dosage, as it can lead to complications. Additionally, track the timing of each dose to avoid exceeding the 24-hour limit.
5. Keep Yourself Cool
Cooling down your body at a moderate or refreshing temperature can help you to cool off. These include sitting in lukewarm water, wearing light clothing, drinking plenty of cool or room-temperature water, avoiding too many blankets when you have chills, giving yourself a sponge bath in lukewarm water, or using a fan to keep air circulation.
6. Using Alternative or Traditional Remedies
Many spices and natural ingredients we keep at home, like ginger, turmeric, garlic, tulsi, cloves, black pepper, lemon, mustard oil, fenugreek seeds, Guduchi, honey, kudzu root, cumin seeds, etc., can be used against viral fever. They have many properties, like antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and medical properties. These ingredients can be boiled or mixed with tea, and the concoction can help alleviate symptoms of viral fever.
7. Maintain Hygiene
One of the most effective ways to prevent infections or symptoms like viral fever is to maintain good hygiene. This includes washing or sanitising your hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, disposing of used tissues and other wastes properly, keeping your surroundings clean, and changing clothes regularly.
Conclusion
Although home remedies to cure viral fever can be effective in managing symptoms, they should be seen as supportive treatments rather than cures. It is important to monitor symptoms closely, and if fever persists or worsens, seek professional medical advice.
At Manipal Hospitals, Patiala, we offer comprehensive healthcare services, including for those with viral fever. We provide expert guidance to ensure you receive the best treatment and care for all your health concerns.
FAQ's
If your symptoms persist or worsen for more than 3 days, or if home remedies do not work, your viral fever could be a reason for some other condition. Our doctors at Manipal Hospitals, Patiala, will carry out comprehensive diagnoses, such as nose swabbing or imaging tests like chest X-rays, to rule out possible serious conditions.
Since common colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics will be ineffective against these infections. However, ear infections or pneumonia caused by bacteria can be present in children diagnosed with a common cold. In those cases, antibiotics are prescribed to address these conditions.
You can prevent viral fevers by adopting healthy practices like maintaining personal hygiene, such as washing your hands with soap and water, covering your mouth while sneezing and coughing, keeping your distance from sick people, getting timely vaccinations, and removing stagnant water resources, using mosquito repellents, or wearing protective clothes to protect from conditions like dengue.
In most cases, viral fever lasts 3 days; however, this can vary. Viral fever due to conditions like dengue can last for 10 days. If it exceeds more than 3 days, you should seek immediate medical attention for faster relief.
Yes, viral fever can cause complications, especially if left untreated or gets severe. Possible complications include dehydration, secondary infections like pneumonia, respiratory issues, and, in rare cases, neurological problems such as meningitis or febrile seizures that occur in children. Even some viruses can lead to organ damage, pregnancy-related risks, or chronic fatigue. Early intervention is key to managing viral fever effectively.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Patiala, contact our General Medicine Department or visit our website.
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