The temperature of the human body varies according to several factors. Here is a guide showing you how to recognize a fever and what to do in his presence.
Fever is not a disease in itself but a symptom of an underlying disease, most of the time an infection. This is an abnormal elevation of body temperature. Fever is a normal defense mechanism. There is a thermostat inside the body which is called the hypothalamus. This thermostat regulates the production and loss of body heat in order to maintain a normal temperature. But during an infection, a readjustment of the thermostat on the rise occurs and there is activation of the production of heat.
Body temperature
The normal temperature of the body does not correspond to a particular value, but rather to a range of temperatures. It is therefore not a particular value. It depends on the person, age and where it is measured. Factors such as physical activity and the time of day can also change it.
What to do in the presence of a fever?
Fever:
Avoid covering the feverish person.
Devetissez the feverish person if necessary.
Keep a normal room temperature (between 18ºC and 20ºC).
Have much drink the feverish person so that it remains well moisturized.
Although the toilet with a sponge and warm water can contribute to lower temperature, they may be unpleasant, and their effectiveness is of short duration. Do not use cold water because it stimulates the chills and increased fever.
Don't rub with rubbing alcohol.
If the child feels ill or has a rectal temperature higher than 38.5 ° C (101, 3ºF), it then appropriate to give ibuprofen (Motrin ®, Advil ®, etc.) or acetaminophen (Tylenol ®, etc.). Acetaminophen is usually the drug of choice to treat fever in children. If your child does not tolerate or is allergic, or even if this medicine has no effect on her fever, you can administer ibuprofen. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin ®, etc.) should not be administered to children 18 years and less because it has been associated with Reye's syndrome, very rare but very dangerous.
If it is a child, the weight is necessary for calculating the dose. Ask the pharmacist to calculate the appropriate dose. If the pharmacist offers a drug in liquid form, it is important to properly measure the dose using a specific instrument (measuring spoon, dosing syringe, etc.).
Should what dose of medication be administered?
For acetaminophen (Tylenol ®, etc.)
Adult dose: 325 to 1000 mg every four to six hours as needed. Maximum of 4,000 mg per day.
Child dose: 10 to 15 mg/kg every four to six hours. Maximum of five doses a day.
Of acetaminophen suppositories are available for children or adults who vomit.
For ibuprofen (Motrin ®, Advil ® etc.)
Adult dose: 200-400 mg every four hours. Up to 1 200 mg per 24 hours.
Child dose: 5 to 10 mg/kg every six to eight hours. Maximum of three doses per 24 hours.
A medicine against fever may take about 30 minutes before making its effect.
Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are available in different forms (drops, syrup), tablets and concentrations. It is therefore important to always check the dose to give.
When should you see a doctor?
A medical consultation is necessary if:
the child is less than three months;
the fever is accompanied by drowsiness, irritability, or vomiting;
the fever is accompanied by convulsions;
the fever persists beyond 24-48 hours despite taking medication and, without apparent reason;
a temperature exceeds 39ºC (102ºF);
the child who manifest other symptoms that you are worried about.
If you have any questions about fever, feel free to contact your pharmacist.
source: www.jeancoutu.com
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