Many of us grew up learning that when you have a fever, you should take medication to “bring it down”. But is that really what we should be doing? Not necessarily.
Normal body temperature is around 98.6°F or 37°C, give or take a degree or two. For most adults, a fever is considered to be a temperature of over 100°F or 37.8°C. For a child, a temperature over 100.4°F, 38°C would fit the bill. Fevers come about because something has caused the body to go into “fight” mode in response to disease, illness or stress and they usually disappear within a few days.
Many experts have come to understand that fevers are “useful” as a natural defense mechanism against infection or insult, and don’t recommend immediately reaching for medication to lower it. In fact, lowering the fever before your body has had a chance to fight can be detrimental in preventing a secondary problem.
Ask us for ideas on ways to naturally manage a fever.
