Fever
Our society tends to have conflicting views on what to do with a fever. Normal oral temperature is around 35.5-37.5°C (keeping in mind that there is a natural variation in individuals’ body temperatures) and a fever isn’t usually dangerous unless it reaches 39.4°C. Some people let the fever runs its course and others try to suppress it as soon as possible. There are various over-the-counter medications that lower a fever, but it may be beneficial to leave it untreated. Here’s why:
- Creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria
- Promotes proliferation of certain white blood cells (ups your defenses)
- Promotes core circulation (increases blood flow to vital organs)
- Creates subjective feeling of lethargy (slow down signal encouraging you to rest)
- Promotes activation of T-cells (important part of immune response)
- Promotes healing process! Speak with your Naturopathic Doctor for more info…
So as you can see, there is a method to the madness. This is another example of our body’s intuitive wisdom; I encourage that you have a chat with your Naturopathic Doctor to gain a deeper understanding of the role of fever and when it is appropriate to intervene. Also, there are numerous botanical/herbal remedies to help reduce a fever.
Should you give Aspirin to children? NO!!!!
- Aspirin given to young children can cause a potentially lethal condition called Reye’s Syndrome
- Speak to your Pediatrician or Naturopathic Doctor for more info
Reference
- Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Fever.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 01 June 2011. Web. 22 Oct. 2012. <http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fever/DS00077>.
