Is it a Cold or Flu?

How do I know if I have the flu?

The CDC defines flu symptoms to include fever (temperature of 100.3 degrees F [38 degrees C] or greater, or signs of fever such as chills, sweats, flushing, skin feeling hot) with cough and/or sore throat. In addition, you may experience headache, body aches, fatigue, nasal congestion, vomiting and diarrhea. To help determine if you have a cold or flu, and for more advice, complete this brief, flu screening.

Cold or flu? What to do?

In general, unless you are experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea or instability related to dehydration, persistent fever more than 3-4 days, or have a high-risk condition, you should stay home and use self-care measures.

High risk conditions include:

• lung diseases like asthma, cystic fibrosis, chronic bronchitis or emphysema
• heart disease
• chronic kidney disease
• metabolic diseases like diabetes
• blood disorders like sickle cell or other severe anemia
• a weakened immune system caused, for example, by cancer or cancer treatment, HIV/AIDS, organ transplant, or corticosteroid therapy
• certain conditions such as nervous system or muscular disorders or seizure disorders that can cause breathing problems or increase the risk of inhaling oral secretions.
• pregnancy

How to Care for Yourself

Medications used to treat the flu or a cold control symptoms. Antibiotics won’t work – they combat bacterial, not viral, infections. Viruses actually hide inside your own cells where antibiotics cannot affect them. Flu and cold care is aimed at symptom relief and immune system support. These include the following:

• Get plenty of rest.​
• Do not smoke.
• Drink plenty of fluids—up to 3-4 liters per day (to prevent dehydration from fever and to help loosen mucous or phlegm).
• For fever, headache, body aches, or sore throat pain, take Tylenol (acetaminophen) Advil (ibuprofen), or Aleve (naproxen) every 4-6 hours.
• For sore throat, gargle every 4 hours with warm, salty water (mix 1/2 teaspoon salt or baking soda in 8 oz. of warm water). Also, try using throat lozenges containing a numbing medication.
• For hoarseness or laryngitis, talk as little as possible. Straining the voice can prolong or worsen laryngitis.
• For heavy amounts of nasal discharge or a large amount of phlegm associated with cough, consider using a mucolytic, such as Mucinex (available over-the-counter).
• For persistent runny nose or nasal congestion, antihistamines and decongestants may be used. Mild antihistamines such as Chlor-Trimeton are useful for runny nose, sneezing and watery eyes. Use a decongestant such as Sudafed (pseudophedrine) for nasal/sinus congestion or ear fullness. A combination antihistamine/decongestant such as Actifed or Dimetapp may be taken for multiple symptoms. But remember, antihistamines may make you drowsy (decongestants usually will not)!

Read this flu information (PDF) for more guidance​.​

• When to Seek Medical Care

  Flu and colds may lead to secondary bacterial infections or worsening of chronic conditions such as asthma for which prescription medication would be necessary. You should seek medical attention if you are not improving after 7-10 days or for any of the following symptoms:

  • Very sore throat that shows no signs of improving after 3 days, or that is accompanied by fever and without any other usual cold symptoms
  • Painful swelling of the lymph nodes or glands in the neck
  • Discolored mucus from nasal passages for more than 7-10 days
  • Pain or tenderness around the eyes
  • Ear pain (as opposed to a “full” feeling)
  • Cough with production of a large amount of discolored mucus
  • Painful breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath
  • Cough that persists more than 2-3 weeks
  • Severe headaches or facial pain not relieved with over-the-counter medication
  • Fever higher than 100. 4 degrees for more than 3-4 days

  W​ho can I talk to if I need more advice?

  If you are ill and need additional advice you may call the SHS Urgent Care nurse at (858) 534-3302. ​After hours, you can reach an advice nurse by calling our main phone (858) 534-3300 and choosing the “Advice Nurse” option.

Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection that includes signs and symptoms such as watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea or vomiting, and sometimes fever.

The most common way to develop viral gastroenteritis — often called stomach flu — is through contact with an infected person or by consuming contaminated food or water. If you’re otherwise healthy, you’ll likely recover without complications. But for infants, older adults and people with compromised immune systems, viral gastroenteritis can be deadly.

There’s no effective treatment for viral gastroenteritis, so prevention is key. Avoid food and water that may be contaminated and wash your hands thoroughly and often.

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Symptoms

Although it’s commonly called stomach flu, gastroenteritis isn’t the same as influenza. The flu (influenza) affects only your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Gastroenteritis, on the other hand, attacks your intestines, causing signs and symptoms such as:

• Watery, usually nonbloody diarrhea — bloody diarrhea usually means you have a different, more severe infection
• Nausea, vomiting or both
• Stomach cramps and pain
• Occasional muscle aches or headache
• Low-grade fever

Depending on the cause, viral gastroenteritis symptoms may appear within 1-3 days after you’re infected and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms usually last just a day or two, but occasionally they may last up to 14 days.

Because the symptoms are similar, it’s easy to confuse viral diarrhea with diarrhea caused by bacteria, such as Clostridioides difficile, salmonella and Escherichia coli, or parasites, such as giardia.

Viral gastroenteritis

The stomach, small intestine and large intestine (colon) are part of your digestive tract, which processes the foods you eat. Viral gastroenteritis is an inflammation of these organs caused by a virus.

When to see a doctor

If you’re an adult, call your health care provider if:

• You’re not able to keep liquids down for 24 hours
• You’ve been vomiting or having diarrhea for more than two days
• You’re vomiting blood
• You’re dehydrated — signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth, deep yellow urine or little or no urine, and severe weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness
• You notice blood in your bowel movements
• You have severe stomach pain
• You have a fever above 104 F (40 C)

For infants and children

See your child’s health care provider right away if your child:

• Has a fever of 102 F (38. 9 C) or higher
• Seems tired or very irritable
• Is in a lot of discomfort or pain
• Has bloody diarrhea
• Seems dehydrated — watch for signs of dehydration in sick infants and children by comparing how much they drink and urinate with how much is normal for them, and watching for signs such as a dry mouth, thirst and crying without tears

If you have an infant, remember that while spitting up may be an everyday occurrence for your baby, vomiting is not. Babies vomit for a variety of reasons, many of which may require medical attention.

Call your baby’s doctor right away if your baby:

• Has vomiting that is frequent
• Hasn’t had a wet diaper in six hours
• Has bloody stools or severe diarrhea
• Has a sunken soft spot (fontanel) on the top of his or her head
• Has a dry mouth or cries without tears
• Is unusually sleepy, drowsy or unresponsive

Causes

You’re most likely to get viral gastroenteritis when you eat or drink contaminated food or water. You may also be likely to get gastroenteritis if you share utensils, towels or food with someone who has one of the viruses that cause the condition.

Many viruses can cause gastroenteritis, including:

• Noroviruses. Both children and adults are affected by noroviruses, the most common cause of foodborne illness worldwide. Norovirus infection can sweep through families and communities. It’s especially likely to spread among people in confined spaces.

  In most cases, you pick up the virus from contaminated food or water. But it can also spread between people who are in close contact or who share food. You can also get the virus by touching a surface that’s been contaminated with norovirus and then touching your mouth.

• Rotavirus. Worldwide, this is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis in children, who are usually infected when they put their fingers or other objects contaminated with the virus into their mouths. It can also spread through contaminated food. The infection is most severe in infants and young children.

  Adults infected with rotavirus may not have symptoms, but can still spread the illness. This is of particular concern in institutional settings such as nursing homes because adults with the virus unknowingly can pass the virus to others. A vaccine against viral gastroenteritis is available in some countries, including the United States, and appears to be effective in preventing the infection.

Some shellfish, especially raw or undercooked oysters, also can make you sick. Contaminated drinking water is a cause of viral diarrhea. But in many cases the virus is passed when someone with a virus handles food you eat without washing his or her hands after using the toilet.

Risk factors

Gastroenteritis occurs all over the world and can affect people of all ages.

People who may be more susceptible to gastroenteritis include:

• Young children. Children in child care centers or elementary schools may be especially vulnerable because it takes time for a child’s immune system to mature.
• Older adults. Adult immune systems tend to become less efficient later in life. Older adults in nursing homes are vulnerable because their immune systems weaken. They also live in close contact with others who may pass along germs.
• Schoolchildren or dormitory residents. Anywhere that groups of people come together in close quarters can be an environment for an intestinal infection to get passed.
• Anyone with a weakened immune system. If your resistance to infection is low — for instance, if your immune system is compromised by HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy or another medical condition — you may be especially at risk.

Each gastrointestinal virus has a season when it’s most active. If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, for instance, you’re more likely to have rotavirus or norovirus infections in the winter and spring.

Complications

The main complication of viral gastroenteritis is dehydration — a severe loss of water and essential salts and minerals. If you’re healthy and drink enough to replace fluids you lose from vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration shouldn’t be a problem.

Infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems may become severely dehydrated when they lose more fluids than they can replace. Hospitalization might be needed so that lost fluids can be replaced through an IV in their arms. Dehydration can rarely lead to death.

Prevention

The best way to prevent the spread of intestinal infections is to follow these precautions:

• Get your child vaccinated. A vaccine against gastroenteritis caused by the rotavirus is available in some countries, including the United States. Given to children in the first year of life, the vaccine appears to be effective in preventing severe symptoms of this illness.

• Wash your hands thoroughly. And make sure your children do, too. If your children are older, teach them to wash their hands, especially after using the toilet.

  Wash your hands after changing diapers and before preparing or eating food, too. It’s best to use warm water and soap and to rub hands well for at least 20 seconds. Wash around cuticles, beneath fingernails and in the creases of the hands. Then rinse thoroughly. Carry sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer for times when soap and water aren’t available.

• Use separate personal items around your home. Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses and plates. Use separate towels in the bathroom.
• Prepare food safely. Wash all your fruits and vegetables before eating them. Clean kitchen surfaces before preparing food on them. Avoid preparing food if you’re sick.
• Keep your distance. Avoid close contact with anyone who has the virus, if possible.
• Disinfect hard surfaces. If someone in your home has viral gastroenteritis, disinfect hard surfaces, such as counters, faucets and doorknobs, with a mixture of 5-25 tablespoons (73 to 369 milliliters) of household bleach to 1 gallon (3. 8 liters) of water.
• Avoid touching laundry that may have been exposed to a virus. If someone in your home has viral gastroenteritis, wear gloves while touching laundry. Wash clothing and bedding in hot water and dry them on the hottest setting. Wash your hands well after touching laundry.
• Check out your child care center. Make sure the center has separate rooms for changing diapers and preparing or serving food. The room with the diaper-changing table should have a sink as well as a sanitary way to dispose of diapers.

Take precautions when traveling

When you’re traveling in other countries, you can become sick from contaminated food or water. You may be able to reduce your risk by following these tips:

• Drink only well-sealed bottled or carbonated water.
• Avoid ice cubes because they may be made from contaminated water.
• Use bottled water to brush your teeth.
• Avoid raw food — including peeled fruits, raw vegetables and salads — that has been touched by human hands.
• Avoid undercooked meat and fish.

More Information

diarrhea, runny nose and how to deal with them

Fever, diarrhea and runny nose – all of these symptoms can indicate the presence of diseases such as colds, flu or intestinal infections. It is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Steps can be taken to reduce symptoms, such as hydration and rest.

High temperature is one of the symptoms of the disease. Basically, it occurs in the case of an infectious process. In addition to fever, various symptoms may occur, such as diarrhea and runny nose. If such symptoms are present, treatment measures must be taken to prevent the condition from worsening.

Diarrhea is heartburn of the stomach accompanied by loose or semi-liquid stools. It may be caused by an infection or other causes. If diarrhea accompanies a high temperature, it is necessary to increase the drinking regimen and consult a doctor.

Runny nose is also one of the symptoms of high fever. It can occur against the background of a cold or other diseases. A runny nose is accompanied by nasal congestion, mucus secretion and a violation of the sense of smell. To relieve a runny nose, you need to drink plenty of fluids and use special means.

It is important to remember that a high temperature is a signal that an inflammatory process is taking place in the body. If necessary, you should consult a doctor and do not self-medicate.

High temperature symptoms

High temperature can be a sign of various diseases and infections. The most common symptom is fever, which is often accompanied by other symptoms.

One of the most common symptoms associated with high fever is a runny nose. In this case, the nasal mucosa may turn red, swell and begin to secrete a large number of secrets.

Another symptom associated with high fever is diarrhea. This may be due to infection, indigestion, or even the use of certain medications.

High fever can also be accompanied by headache, muscle weakness, body aches, loss of appetite and even convulsions.

It is important to understand that the presence of fever-related symptoms does not always mean a serious illness. However, if symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen, a doctor should be consulted.

What is temperature and what temperature can be considered high?

Temperature is an indicator that characterizes the thermal state of an object. In the human body, temperature is measured in degrees Celsius (°C). The normal body temperature of a healthy person is between 36.6 and 37.2 °C.

The temperature can be considered high if it is above normal. Medical standards classify body temperature according to the following criteria:

Slight fever:

• 37.2 – 37.9 ° C – indicates a slight violation in the body’s thermoregulation (for example, after exercise, in cool weather, in the morning after waking up).

Moderate fever:

• 38 – 38.9°C is already a symptom of an illness, such as influenza.

High temperature:

• 39 – 41 °C – dangerous to health and requires immediate medical attention.

High fever may be accompanied by various symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, runny nose, etc. Such symptoms can aggravate the existing situation and provoke new complications. Therefore, it is necessary to take timely measures to lower the temperature and seek medical help if the temperature does not decrease within a few days.

Main symptoms of high fever

High temperature is a marker of many diseases. But how do you know when the temperature is high?

• Normal human body temperature is between 36.5 and 37.5 degrees Celsius.
• Body temperature above 37.5 degrees is considered elevated.
• Temperatures above 38 degrees indicate a high temperature.

The main symptoms of high fever include:

1. Headache: with high temperature explosive headache.
2. Fever: increased body temperature.
3. Weakness: feeling tired and weak.
4. Nausea and vomiting: possible signs of infectious diseases.
5. Trembling: tremor or shivering in the body.

However, the symptoms of a high fever may vary depending on the cause of the fever. For a correct diagnosis, you should consult a doctor.

Diarrhea as a symptom of high fever

High fever may be accompanied by diarrhea, which is one of the signs of an acute intestinal infection. Diarrhea is caused by indigestion and may present as loose and frequent stools.

In addition to infection, diarrhea can be caused by eating contaminated food or water, having an allergic reaction to certain foods, and using certain medications such as antibiotics.

Diarrhea can be treated with medications that can help manage the symptoms and restore normal bowel function. It is also important to maintain regular hygiene and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

• Take medication only as directed by your doctor;
• Use only clean drinking water and quality foods;
• Perform good hygiene, use disinfectants;
• If symptoms of diarrhea persist, see a doctor.

If you have a high fever with diarrhea, you should seek qualified medical attention, as this may indicate a serious illness that should be treated immediately.

Why does diarrhea occur with high fever?

Diarrhea is a common symptom with fever. In this case, the gastrointestinal tract becomes sensitive to various painful processes.

First of all, high temperature causes an increased secretion of gastric juice and accelerates the movement of food through the intestines, which can negatively affect its work. In addition, temperature speeds up the body’s metabolism, which can cause rapid breathing and loss of water and electrolytes through the intestines.

Also, high fever can trigger the development of infectious diseases, which are often accompanied by diarrhea. This may be due to a violation of the intestinal microflora due to the increased activity of pathogenic microorganisms as a result of a decrease in immunity.

• What should I do if I have diarrhea with a fever?
• The first step is to see a doctor to determine the cause of the diarrhea.
• It is important to monitor water and electrolyte intake, including ORS intake to prevent dehydration.
• It is recommended to give up fatty, spicy and complex dishes, to give preference to light and easily digestible foods, such as jelly, rice water and bananas.
• Do not leave the problem of diarrhea to chance and continue to take measures to combat it.

How do I deal with diarrhea with high fever?

Diarrhea is a common symptom with high fever. It can be caused by infectious diseases, viruses, bacteria, or even the use of certain medications. Some ways to help manage this problem:

• Drink plenty of fluids. Diarrhea causes a lot of fluid and electrolyte loss. Therefore, it is very important to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. To do this, you can drink tea, mineral water or sparkling water.
• Eat foods that promote fluid balance. For example, bananas, rice, apples, toast, chicken broth, and other easily digestible foods may be added to weak solutions.
• Avoid certain foods. Foods that may worsen symptoms, including fatty and spicy foods, alcohol and coffee, are not recommended for diarrhea.
• Use drugs. In some cases, medicines can help stop diarrhea. Talk to your doctor to determine which drug is best for you.

If diarrhea persists for more than a few days, see your doctor to determine the cause and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Runny nose as a symptom of high fever

Runny nose is one of the most common and persistent symptoms of high fever. It can be very uncomfortable, irritating and often make it difficult to breathe normally.

At first glance, a runny nose may seem like a non-obvious sign of high fever. But they are, in fact, connected: when the body encounters an infection, inflammation of many organs and systems usually occurs, including the nasal mucosa.

As a rule, a runny nose with a high temperature indicates that a cold or flu has already begun. It can also be a precursor symptom, signaling that you are at risk of illness, and cause headache, weakness, and other discomfort.

To deal with a runny nose with a high fever, give yourself a good rest and drink plenty of fluids. There are also many people who talk about the benefits of cold medicines, such as nasal drops or sprays. Choose the method that you have tested on yourself or that your doctor has advised you.

Why does a runny nose appear at a high temperature?

A runny nose with a high fever may be the result of an upper respiratory infection such as SARS or influenza. High fever persists in the face of infection, causing a runny nose, which may be accompanied by cough, headache, and sore throat. A runny nose with a high temperature can also be the result of an allergy.

A runny nose is one of the most common symptoms of a cold or flu and usually resolves on its own within a few days. With allergies for several days or more, but with the elimination of the allergen, the symptoms normalize.

The symptoms of a runny nose at high temperatures can be reduced by using simple means: increasing fluid intake, installing a UV-curing device to purify the air, using a mug of hot drink, humidifying the dry air, resting and reducing the load on the body, etc.

• Increased fluid intake – this can help control the spread of a runny nose and help in full recovery
• Installing a UV air purifier is a certified technology that removes bacteria and recycles harmful substances in the air, which can help reduce the likelihood of future infections.
• A mug of hot drink is a very simple way to thin the mucus in the nose, a guarantee of increased blood circulation, but you should use this method only if you are sure of health in the throat
• Humidification of dry air – this will help restore moisture in the nose, throat, thanks to this, mucus will normalize

How to deal with a runny nose at a high temperature?

A runny nose with a high temperature is one of the symptoms of a cold. In this case, the main task is to facilitate breathing and reduce discomfort.

1. Use vasoconstrictor drops. They will help narrow the blood vessels and improve the patency of the nose. But do not abuse these drops, as they can harm your health.

2. Rinsing the nose with saline solutions will help moisturize the mucous membranes and improve nasal passage.

3. Drink plenty of fluids. During a cold, the body loses a lot of fluid, so it is necessary to increase the amount of water consumed. This will help you stay hydrated and reduce inflammation.

4. Use inhalers. This device allows you to inhale vapors of drugs that kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.

5. Include foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, meat and fish, in your diet. They will help strengthen the immune system and quickly cope with the disease.

If the symptoms of high fever and runny nose do not disappear after 3-4 days, a doctor should be consulted and examined. Do not forget about hand hygiene and protection of the nose and mouth during epidemics of colds!

Headache as a symptom of fever

Headache may be one of the symptoms associated with fever. In many cases, a headache causes additional discomfort and can aggravate your overall health. Therefore, it is important to know how to deal with a high temperature headache.

One easy way to relieve headaches is to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin. But it must be remembered that they can cause side effects and it is not recommended to use them without consulting a doctor.

Warm compresses can be applied to the forehead and back of the head to relieve headaches. If you are at home, try to rest in a quiet and dark place, as bright lights and noise can make your headache worse.

• Fever headache symptoms
• Headache relief options
• When to see a doctor

If your headache does not go away despite the measures taken, or your temperature continues to rise, be sure to consult your doctor. Headache may be a sign of other diseases and require more serious treatment. Remember that proper treatment and seeing a doctor will help prevent possible complications and help you return to a healthy lifestyle.

Why does a headache occur with a high temperature?

Headache is one of the most common symptoms that can occur with elevated body temperature. This is because as the temperature rises, changes occur in the circulatory system, including increased blood flow to the brain. This can lead to vasodilation of the brain and an increase in pressure inside the skull.

In addition, elevated temperature can cause dehydration, which leads to a decrease in the amount of fluid in the body. It can also cause headaches, as the brain has to work in conditions of lack of fluid.

Pain medications can be taken to help manage fever headaches, which reduce pressure inside the skull and reduce pain. However, it is important to remember that long-term use of pain medication can lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal problems.

In addition, fever headaches can be reduced by drinking water regularly, as this helps to keep the fluid level in the body. You can also apply cold compresses to the forehead and back of the head to relieve pressure in the head.

How to cope with a headache with a high fever?

Headache with fever is one of the most common symptoms. It can be caused by elevated body temperature itself or by other factors such as stress, fatigue, or lack of nutrition.

There are several ways to help manage a fever headache:

• Drink plenty of fluids. One of the main causes of fever headaches can be dehydration. Drink more water and other fluids to keep your body hydrated.
• Take antipyretics. If your headache is due to high body temperature, take medicines that lower the temperature and reduce pain. But do not forget that medicines should be taken only as directed by a doctor.
• Relax. Stress and fatigue can cause headaches at high temperatures. Relax, find a way to relax, such as meditation, yoga, or other exercises.

It is important to note that if the headache is associated with other symptoms, such as severe nausea or dizziness, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

Increased heart rate as a symptom of fever

Increased heart rate is one of the symptoms associated with fever. The body begins to actively fight infection or inflammation, which leads to an increase in heart rate.

However, in addition to this, an increased heart rate may be associated with other problems, such as: dehydration of the body, blood loss, heart failure, etc.

To cope with this symptom, it is necessary first of all to establish its cause and begin treatment of the underlying disease. If the increased heart rate is not associated with serious problems, the following recommendations can be applied:

• Reduce physical activity and rest;
• Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing;
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and other stimulants;
• Diet and eat smaller meals.

It is also necessary to monitor changes in the condition and consult a doctor in a timely manner in case of negative changes.

Why does palpitations occur at high temperatures?

Increased heart rate with fever is the body’s normal response to an infection or other illness that causes a rise in body temperature. When body temperature rises, the heart starts to work faster to provide enough oxygen and nutrients to all organs and tissues.

Increased heart rate can also be caused by dehydration, which often occurs at high temperatures when fluid loss through sweat increases. To combat dehydration, the body begins to accelerate the heart to compensate for the reduction in blood volume and help maintain the desired pressure.

In addition, increased heart rate can be caused by stress, which can occur in connection with illness and fever. Stress triggers the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which speeds up the heartbeat and increases blood pressure to help the body deal with stress.

To cope with increased heart rate at high temperatures, it is important to normalize body temperature, drink enough fluids, avoid physical activity and take care of good nutrition. If the heartbeat persists for a long time or if it is accompanied by additional symptoms, it is worth consulting with your doctor for a more detailed assessment of your health.

How to deal with increased heart rate with high fever?

An increased heart rate is a normal reaction of the body to a high temperature, but if it is too high, it can be a cause for concern.

To reduce the heartbeat you need:

• Take fever medicine – this will help reduce body temperature and reduce heartbeat.
• Drink plenty of water – liquid will help cool the body and bring down the temperature.
• Avoid exercise – this can increase the heart rate and make you feel worse.
• Place ice on the back and crown – this helps to cool the body and lower the temperature.
• Apply a wet compress – this also helps to cool the body and lower the temperature.

Be aware that an increased heart rate can be a sign of a serious problem, so if you feel pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, call your doctor right away.

What if the temperature does not drop?

High fever may cause discomfort and anxiety for patients. If the temperature does not subside, then you need to take measures to reduce it and consult a doctor.

• Take an antipyretic: parajuan or ibuprofen preparations can help reduce fever. However, you should consult your doctor to clarify the dosage and the possibility of using these drugs.
• Drink plenty of fluids: During illness, the body loses a lot of fluid, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids and make sure your body is getting enough fluid to fight infection.
• Lower the room temperature: If the room temperature is high, this may aggravate the situation. Open windows or use an air conditioner to keep you cool.
• Rest and try to relax: Stress and fatigue can aggravate the disease. Try to rest and relax to help your body fight infection.
• Seek medical attention: If the temperature persists, see a doctor. He will help determine the cause of the high temperature and suggest treatment.

It is worth remembering that a high temperature can be a sign of a serious illness and requires careful attention. Do not self-medicate and be sure to seek help from a doctor.

Self-treatment of high fever: what not to do?

When the temperature rises, the body sends a signal that something is wrong in the body. But not everyone knows how to properly respond to this. Many try to manage the symptoms on their own, which often leads to a worsening of the condition.

One of the main “not” at high temperature is the use of alcohol. It leads to an additional load on the body, impairs metabolism and can lead to a deterioration in the condition.

It is also not recommended to eat fatty, sweet and spicy foods, which greatly complicate digestion and may worsen the general condition.

Do not overuse drugs, especially antibiotics, unless your doctor has prescribed specific drugs. This can lead to the development of allergic reactions, dysbacteriosis and other side effects.

It is also impossible to ignore the problem and continue to work or play sports. It is necessary to observe bed rest, drink plenty of fluids and do not take medicines for high fever without consulting a doctor.

Remember that self-treatment of a high temperature can lead to serious consequences. Seek medical attention if the temperature does not go down within 2-3 days or if the condition worsens.

Q&A:

What symptoms accompany high fever?

High fever may be accompanied by various symptoms such as diarrhoea, runny nose, headache, chills, general weakness, loss of appetite, etc. Specific symptoms may depend on the cause of the fever.

What causes high fever?

High fever can be caused by various causes such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, allergens, drug reactions, stress, etc. To determine the exact cause of the increase in temperature, you must consult a doctor.

What is diarrhea?

Diarrhea is the rarer occurrence of liquid or mushy stool. It can be caused by various reasons such as infections, allergies, stress, changes in diet, etc.

Can high fever cause diarrhea?

Yes, diarrhea can be one of the symptoms associated with a high fever. Some infections can cause both diarrhea and fever.

How do I manage diarrhea caused by high fever?

To manage diarrhea in a patient with a high fever, it is recommended to drink more fluids, follow a dietary regimen, avoid spicy and heavy foods, and possibly take medication under medical supervision.

What is a runny nose?

Runny nose is a condition where the nasal mucosa is inflamed and irritated. It can be joined by sneezing, nasal congestion, strong mucus secretion.

Can a runny nose be associated with high fever?

Yes, a runny nose can be one of the symptoms associated with a high fever, especially if these symptoms are caused by a viral infection.

When to see a doctor?

When you have symptoms of a high fever, you should call your doctor if:

• Fever lasts more than three days without recovery;
• You experience acute pain;
• You have a rash or trouble breathing;
• You often faint or have seizures;
• You are very weak and unable to perform normal tasks at home or at work;
• You have severe diarrhea or vomiting with a high fever.

If you have a chronic or immunocompromised condition, you should take extra care of your health and see your doctor as soon as you suspect an infection or other problem.

Always remember that it is better to play it safe than to wait until the problem gets worse.

Related videos:

Chills without fever cause – How to get rid of chills, pain and weakness

Surely every person has met during his life such people who are constantly freezing. Even in summer, when everyone around is trying to be as “bare” as possible so that it is not so hot, these men and women can wrap themselves in wool sweaters and wear tight trousers. Constant chills without temperature is a feature that is most often inherent in girls and women of asthenic physique. Nevertheless, strong men, who at first glance are simply full of health, are sometimes brought to suffer from chills.

Why is this happening? First of all, it should be noted that chills and weakness in themselves are not a disease – they are nothing more than symptoms. They may indicate that the patient has an endocrine or infectious disease, as well as a benign or malignant neoplasm in the body. In addition, chills often worries those people in whose body an inflammatory process develops, which is accompanied by suppuration.

Common causes of chills

The first thought that appears in a person who notes a headache, chills and weakness is that he is ill with ARVI or the flu. The patient’s body has to produce a large amount of heat, so in such patients, in most cases, the temperature rises. These symptoms may be accompanied by a runny nose, headache, aching bones, and other signs of illness. In no case should you endure discomfort on your legs! Seek medical attention and start treatment as soon as possible.

Often, a feeling of cold in people with a hypersensitive nervous system is accompanied by strong excitement. In addition, it may be due to fear. This is a transient symptom – as soon as a person is able to relax and calm down, he stops freezing. In many cases, chills without fever is a familiar companion of those people whose working blood pressure is below normal. In addition, in women, the cause of chills can be the first days of the menstrual cycle, as well as the onset of pregnancy.

Often the cause of chills is all kinds of disorders in the patient’s peripheral circulation. Especially many of these people live in regions for which damp cold weather is the norm. In such patients, the blood supply to the fingers of the upper and lower extremities is reduced. Visually, this can be determined by redness and swelling of the skin. The symptoms are accompanied by intense itching.

Firsthand, the discomfort that accompanies chills is familiar to people who have been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. In addition, this symptom may indicate that the patient has other types of endocrine diseases. For example, in patients with underactive thyroid, the following symptoms may be associated with chills and headaches:

• hair loss up to baldness;
• a sharp increase in body weight up to obesity;
• mood swings from complete euphoria to hysteria and depression;
• excessively dry skin on the face and body;
• weakness, drowsiness, decreased performance, etc.

The sensation of cold is associated with insufficient production of hormones by the gland, the consequence of which is a violation of thermoregulation. In addition, similar symptoms are often observed in women aged 50 years and older. It has to do with the climax.

Finally, patients with VSD often suffer from chills and weakness. They can get cold even in July, when everyone wears light dresses, shorts, t-shirts and flip-flops. The fact is that in people suffering from vegetative-vascular dystonia, thermoregulation can be seriously impaired. Such patients need to visit saunas and baths more often, as well as start each morning with a contrast shower. In the cold season, swimming in an ice hole can help them strengthen blood vessels and improve thermoregulation. Finally, a massage course conducted by a qualified specialist can play the role of an “ambulance” for such people and relieve them of chills for a while.

Please note that the above methods of healing the body are not suitable for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases.

How to get rid of chills?

If the chills are provoked by the penetration of a viral infection into the body, then it is necessary to throw all your efforts into treating the disease. Stick to the treatment regimen prescribed by your doctor and follow all his recommendations. Bed rest in combination with taking pharmaceuticals, including antipyretics, gargling and drinking plenty of fluids will help get rid of all manifestations of the disease in a matter of days.

How to get rid of chills provoked by any endocrine diseases? To do this, you need to consult a doctor, undergo an examination and begin treatment of identified problems in the body under the strict guidance of a specialist.