When we are suffering from an infectious disease (flu, nasopharyngitis, otitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, laryngitis, urinary tract infections, gastroenteritis, etc.), fever appears. This symptom corresponds to an increase in body temperature above 38 ° C, in the absence of intense physical activity. It allows our body to fight infection, in particular by accelerating the production of white blood cells (leukocytes). In addition, it destroys microbes thanks to macrophages and it stimulates the multiplication of antibodies (lymphocytes). It also helps eliminate toxins and creates chemical reactions that help cells in the body regenerate.

However, even if it is often commonplace and well tolerated, it causes discomfort: sweating, chills, pain, stiffness, etc. It can also be dangerous in some cases. Regarding infants, it can cause convulsions and should therefore be the subject of a medical consultation. For adults and children, however, it is not necessary to consult the doctor immediately and it is generally advisable to wait 3 days. However, if you have the slightest doubt (hypotonia, breathing difficulties, confusion, stiff neck, etc.), do not hesitate to consult.

Even if the fever is not serious, it is possible to lower the body temperature in order to treat the discomfort it causes. There are several ways to treat it.

1. Discover the feverish patient

The first reaction to having to deal with someone with a fever is to undress them. In the pediatric departments of hospitals, we do not hesitate to put children topless. Consider lowering the room heating to 18 degrees and remove the blankets. Be sure to reduce the temperature gradually, so as not to cause thermal shock.

2. Give water regularly 

Drink water regularly and in small quantities to hydrate the patient is also recommended in case of fever. You can also run a glove of cold water over the forehead and neck, or even over the body, without drying, because by letting the water evaporate, the body cools down..

3. Take a shower in case of excessive sweating

Currently, it is no longer recommended to take a cool bath in order to lower the temperature. Indeed, it would rather tend to cause discomfort in the feverish person. However, in case of heavy perspiration, a quick shower can be pleasant as well as clean clothes.

4. Paracetamol to lower fever

To lower the fever if it is poorly tolerated, it is advisable to give antipyretic treatment. Paracetamol (or acetaminophen) should be given as a first-line treatment. Anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) can also be effective. As for aspirin, it is not recommended for children.

5. Willow leaves, a remedy since Antiquity

Certain plants can also help lower the temperature. Already used during Antiquity, the willow leaves consumed in decoction also act as an antipyretic.. If you do not like herbal tea, it is possible to take it in capsule form.

6. Which homeopathy granules to choose?

Homeopathy can also relieve the patient in case of fever. If she is brutal and high accompanied by headaches, redness and sweating, take 5 granules of Belladonna 5CH every hour. Same dosage with Aconit 5CH in case of dry fever. If the fever is low and is accompanied by great fatigue and a desire to stay in bed, take Ferrum phosphoricum 5CH, 5 granules every two hours. Finally, in case of progressive onset fever with intense thirst, dry mouth and dry cough, take 5 granules of Bryonia 5CH every hour.

Perrine Deurot-Bien

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