A viral fever is any fever that happens as a result of a viral infection. Viruses are tiny germs that spread easily from person to person.
When you contract a viral condition, such as a cold or flu, your immune system responds by going into overdrive. Part of this response often involves raising your body’s temperature to make it less hospitable to the virus and other germs.
Most people’s usual body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C). Anything 1 degree or more above this is considered a fever.
Unlike bacterial infections, viral illnesses don’t respond to antibiotics. Instead, most simply have to run their course. This can take anywhere from a couple of days to a week or longer, depending on the type of infection.
While the virus runs its course, there are several things you can do to help manage your symptoms. Read on to learn more.
Know when to see your doctor
Fevers usually aren’t something to worry about. But when they’re high enough, they can pose some health risks.
A high fever can be more dangerous for a young child than an adult. Here’s when to call your child’s doctor:
For children 2 and older, call their doctor if they have a fever that repeatedly rises above 104°F (40°C). Also seek medical advice if your child has a fever and:
Fevers can also be risky for adults in some cases. See your doctor for a fever that’s 103°F (39°C) or higher that isn’t responding to medication or lasts longer than three days. Also seek treatment if a fever is accompanied by:
Drink fluids
A viral fever makes your body much warmer than usual. This causes your body to sweat in an effort to cool down. But this leads to fluid loss, which can cause dehydration.
Try to drink as much as you can when you have a viral fever to replenish lost fluids. It doesn’t have to be just water, either. Any of the following can provide hydration:
Babies and toddlers may benefit from a specially formulated drink with electrolytes, such as Pedialyte. You can purchase these drinks at a local grocery store or online. You can also make your own electrolyte drink at home.
Get plenty of rest
A viral fever is a sign that your body is working hard to fight off an infection. Cut yourself some slack by resting as much as possible. Even if you can’t spend the day in bed, try to avoid as much physical activity as possible. Aim for eight to nine hours or more of sleep per night. During the day, take it easy.
It’s also best to put your exercise routine on a temporary hold. Exerting yourself can further raise your temperature.
Take an over-the-counter medication
Over-the-counter (OTC) fever reducers are the easiest way to manage a fever. In addition to temporarily reducing your fever, they’ll help you feel a little less uncomfortable and more like yourself.
Just make sure you keep getting plenty of rest, even if you feel better for a few hours after taking an OTC drug.
Common OTC fever reducers include:
Before you turn to OTC fever reducers, keep this safety information in mind:
Try herbal remedies
People sometimes try herbal remedies to treat a fever. Keep in mind that these supplements have been shown to improve fever in animals. There’s no reliable evidence that they work in humans. Their safety in children is often unclear or unknown, too. It’s best to avoid these remedies in children.
It’s also important to note that the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t monitor the quality of supplements like they do for drugs. Talk to your doctor before trying any supplements. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Moringa
Moringa is a tropical plant that has a variety of nutritional and medicinal benefits. Almost all parts of the plant contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial agents. A 2014 studyTrusted Source found that moringa bark reduced fevers in rabbits.
More research is needed to determine how this plant can reduce fevers in humans. Some research suggests it may be gentler on the liver than over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen.
Don’t use moringa if you:
In one case report, consumption of moringa leaves lead to a rare disease of the skin and mucous membranes called Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS). This suggests people at risk of developing SJS should avoid using moringa. However, this was the first reported case and the reaction should be considered extremely rare.
Kudzu root
Kudzu root is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain. A 2012 study also suggests that it reduced fevers in rats, but human studies are needed to evaluate this properly.
Avoid using kudzu root if you:
If you take diabetes medications, talk to your doctor before trying kudzu root. It may lead to low blood sugar, requiring a change in medication.
You can find kudzu root in the form a powder, capsule, or liquid extract online.
Stay cool
You can help cool down your body by surrounding it with cooler temperatures. Make sure you don’t overdo it. If you start to shiver, stop immediately. Shivering can cause your fever to rise.
Things you can do to safely cool off include the following:
The bottom line
A viral fever is usually nothing to worry about. In both children and adults, most viruses resolve on their own and are part of the healing process. But if you notice unusual symptoms, or a fever doesn’t go away after a day or so, it’s best to call your doctor.
Source: Healthline