Fever

Fever is a defence response by the human body.

1 May 2021 | 5 Min. Reading Time

Overview

Fever is a defence response by the human body. Increased body temperature and pronounced fatigue are typical symptoms. It is important to drink plenty of fluids, and some home remedies can also provide relief (e.g. cooling leg compresses).

Symptoms

Main Symptoms

Fever is an increase in body temperature (> 38°C). A fever has different phases:

Muscle tremors (shaking and trembling), shivering and chills are signs of a rapid rise in fever
When the peak has been reached, the shivering and chills disappear, and the body starts feeling the heat
Later, when your temperature falls again, an attack of sweating accelerates the cooling process

Other symptoms

Headache or painful limbs
Upset stomach
General feeling of being unwell, accompanied by fatigue

Causes and treatment

Causes

Common causes include:

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

Measuring the exact body temperature
Blood/urine tests
Lung x-ray

Possible therapies

Antipyretic (i.e. fever-reducing) drugs
Fluid replacement, if needed
Antibiotics, if needed

What can I do myself?

Fever is a natural defence response by the body. As such, it doesn’t always have to be reduced immediately. It depends on how the sick person feels.

Drink plenty of fluids (water, tea)
Apply leg compresses with vinegar or lemon water (start at warm to the touch, go cooler with every change)
Take antipyretic (fever-reducing) drugs

When to see a doctor?

Fever > 40°C
Additional complaints such as severe headache, neck pain or pain in lumbar region
If accompanied by disorientation
When it is difficult to breathe (air hunger) or breathing is painful
Fever at an advanced age
Fever after a trip to the tropics
If accompanied by a skin rash