The term “viral fever” refers to fever that is counteracted by a virus. Some of the typical symptoms are high fever, joint pains, stomach cramps and indigestion, cough and cold, rash, weakness, and low energy levels. Not all symptoms may arise in the individual, but from the list given, more than half of the symptoms are likely to arise. Although it is said that viral fevers cannot be treated with antibiotics and must run their natural course, it is always advisable to consult a doctor, as the symptoms may be outside the limits of tolerance and safety.
A viral fever patient needs complete rest and should not be encouraged to leave the house. Sometimes the fever can rise far beyond the desired level and become dangerous for the patient. Also, the inherent weakness that this fever brings can cause bouts of dizziness, fainting, or even vomiting. Upset stomach, similar to diarrhea, is also a feature of this debilitating disease.
When the fever tends to cross 100 degrees. Mark F, the patient’s body should be cooled by applying a cold compress to the forehead. This is done by immersing a hand towel or soft cloth in cold water, rinsing and wringing it out, and laying the damp cloth flat on the patient’s forehead. The patient should drink plenty of fluids at this point, as a general cooling of the system is desired. Do not cover the patient with a blanket. Covering the body will simply trap the heat and cause a fever to rise. Keeping the window slightly ajar to get fresh air into the room is also a good idea. If the fever becomes difficult to control even with medication and cold compresses, the patient should be instructed to bathe or have a wet sponge treatment applied to the entire body.
During a viral fever outbreak, often the first thing to take a beating is the digestive system. Loose movements can also be triggered due to the antibiotics that are taken to combat the viral fever. In any case, fluid intake should be intensified. Water, tender coconut water, sweet fresh lemon juice, soups and stews are ideal for the patient at this point. Here, the emphasis of the food should be on quality rather than quantity. An additional, regular dose of a multivitamin pill and an antacid can also be taken to combat the severe effect of the medications.
Most viral infections occur through inhalation of contaminated air, consumption of infected food or water. Therefore, observing hygiene rules is imperative to deal with this disease. When a viral infection is rampant in your city, it’s best to keep washing your hands, sneezing into a clean tissue, eating homemade food, and drinking water from a safe source. Avoiding contact with people who are already suffering and keeping utensils from an infected person separate is also a good idea, as traces of infection may remain on the person’s plate, glass or spoon.
The important point to note is that in case the medication is left halfway, that in itself is a risk. Antibiotics do not react well when given in incomplete doses, and there may be a recurrence of the fever, which in most cases is a harsher, more stubborn version of the original high temperature attack. Given these simple rules, it is easy to get out of a fit of viral fever.
