A fever is not actually an illness but rather a symptom of a viral or bacterial infection. While most fevers are the result of a minor infection, there are a countless number of diseases and conditions in which fever is a symptom. If you have a viral fever, you’re likely seeking the fastest and most effective treatment. Here are five things you can do right away:
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Stay in bed. Have enough blankets handy to combat any chills you may experience and a fan if you’re feeling warm. Sleep is a good remedy and shouldn’t be too difficult, given the fatigue that is typically brought on by a viral fever.
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Drink, drink, and drink some more. Staying hydrated is critical to treating a viral fever. Drink enough water to prevent your urine from turning dark in color which indicates dehydration. A sports drink can help replace lost electrolytes.
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Irrigate the nasal passages. A nasal decongestant can provide relief from a stuffy or runny nose.
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Check the medicine cabinet. Many over-the-counter drugs like Advil and Ibuprofen can help alleviate some of the symptoms of a viral fever.
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Take a dip. A hot bath or shower, especially one with a lot of steam, can relieve body aches and sinus congestion.
Some natural remedies such as tea and ginger have been known to help with the symptoms of viral fevers.
What does not work to treat a viral fever?
Antibiotics may be prescribed by a doctor to ward off any bacterial infections that may occur in a weakened immune system. However, the antibiotics do not fight the viral fever itself. Since many experts believe that a fever is the body’s way of trying to fight off an infection because most viruses thrive at a certain body temperature, most antibiotics target the infection instead of the symptoms related to the fever.
Steroids are not advised to treat a viral fever as they may lead to a bacterial superinfection.
When to see a doctor
If your viral fever reaches temperatures of 104 degrees or more, or if the fever persists for more than four days, it may be time to see a medical professional.
Find your nearest FastMed location and start receiving treatment for your viral infection immediately.
About FastMed
FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.