A fever is a term used to describe a body temperature that is higher than normal. While it may be alarming, it is usually a sign that your body is fighting an infection. Fever is one of the major symptoms that often lead people to visit healthcare facilities. This article takes a deeper dive into the causes of fever, explaining why your body temperature rises during illness.

Physiology of Fever

Our bodies have an internal thermostat in the brain's hypothalamus that regulates our temperature. A healthy person's internal thermostat settles at around 98.6°F (37°C). However, our immune system can raise this set point during an infection, causing our body temperature to rise.

Causes of Fever

1. Infection & Immune Response:

• When our bodies encounter pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, our immune system kicks into action to fight the infection.
• As part of this response, a chemical messenger called pyrogen is released into the bloodstream.
• Pyrogen travels to the hypothalamus, where it interacts with thermostat neurons to raise the body's temperature set point.

2. Inflammation:

• Fever is often accompanied by inflammation, which is the body's natural response to tissue damage or infection.
• Inflammation releases chemicals called cytokines, which stimulate the release of pyrogens, contributing to an increase in body temperature.

3. Certain Medications:

• Some medications, such as antibiotics, chemotherapy, and anticonvulsants, can also cause fever as a side effect.
• These medications can interfere with the body's temperature regulation mechanisms, leading to an elevated temperature.

4. Overexertion:

• Strenuous physical activity can cause a temporary increase in body temperature due to increased muscle activity and metabolism.
• The body's attempt to cool itself down through sweating can lead to dehydration, exacerbating the fever.

Benefits and Risks of Fever

1. Benefits of Fever:

• Fever helps the immune system fight infection by:
• Inhibiting the growth of some bacteria and viruses.
• Promoting the production of white blood cells that fight infection.
• Increasing blood flow to the infection site, delivering more immune cells and nutrients.

2. Risks of Fever:

• High fever can lead to:
• Seizures, especially in young children.
• Dehydration, as the body loses water through sweating.
• Loss of appetite and fatigue, affecting overall health and recovery.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• For adults: A fever above 103°F (39.4°C) or a fever that lasts more than three days.
• For children: A fever above 101°F (38.3°C) or a fever that lasts more than 24 hours.

Conclusion

Fever is a common response to infection and inflammation, aiding the immune system in fighting illness. While fever can be beneficial, it's important to monitor its severity and seek medical attention if it becomes too high or persistent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do I feel chilled when I have a fever?

Your body attempts to raise its temperature to fight infection. This can cause shivering, which is the body's way of generating heat.

2. Can fever cause seizures?

High fever, especially in children, can trigger seizures. This is why it's important to seek medical attention for high fever.

3. What should I do to reduce fever?

Stay hydrated, dress in light clothing, and use over-the-counter fever-reducing medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

4. Can fever be a sign of a serious infection?

Persistent or high fever can be a sign of a severe infection. It's essential to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause.

5. How long does fever typically last?

The duration of fever depends on the underlying cause. Most fevers related to common infections last 1-3 days.