Fever, Symptoms and Treatment

What is Fever?

Fever is the body's natural way of defense against invasion of bacteria and viruses. A person is said to have a fever when body temperature reading is above or below the normal temperature which is 37°C (98.6°F). But body temperature may very well vary up to 0.6°C (1°F) hence it's not considered medically significant not unless the temperature is above 38°C (100.4°F). This demands immediate medical attention and treatment as it can result in delirium and convulsions particularly in children.

Treatment
A person with fever should be kept comfortable and not overdressed. Over dressing causes body temperature to increase further. Sponge bath using lukewarm water may help bring down the temperature but never immerse a person in an ice cold water as this may cause severe shivering.
Medications such as Paracetamol, and Ibuprofen may be used if the fever causes discomfort. Never give Aspirin to treat fever as this may cause Reye Syndrome which is a dangerous illness that causes prolonged vomiting, confusion and even coma or liver failure.

When To Sick Professional Health Care
Children under age of 3 months should be taken to a physician or pediatrician for fever with temperature of 38°C and above. Persons with continuous fever and fever lasting for more than 3 days should also seek professional medical attention to validate the cause of illness.

 Source: MedicineNet.com