How long does fever typically last during flu. What are the common symptoms of influenza in children. When should you seek medical attention for flu complications. How can you treat flu symptoms at home.

Understanding Influenza: Causes and Transmission

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. Outbreaks typically occur between November and April, with viruses changing frequently. This constant mutation is why people can catch the flu multiple times, as immunity doesn’t last long.

Influenza spreads through three main routes:

• Direct contact with an infected person (e.g., kissing, touching)
• Indirect contact with contaminated surfaces (e.g., toys, doorknobs)
• Airborne transmission through coughs and sneezes

Children are particularly susceptible to catching influenza from family members, playmates, or caregivers due to close contact and less developed immune systems.

Recognizing Flu Symptoms in Children

Flu symptoms often appear more suddenly and severely than those of a common cold. While adults and children may experience similar symptoms, there are some key differences to watch for in younger patients:

Common Flu Symptoms in Children:

• Sudden high fever (often over 39.5°C in young children)
• Chills and shaking
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Extreme fatigue
• Dry cough
• Sore throat
• Loss of appetite

Is fever always present in flu cases? While fever is a common symptom, it’s not always present, especially in very young infants or older adults. Newborns and babies may have an unexplained high fever without other obvious signs of illness.

Age-Specific Flu Symptoms:

• Infants: High fever without other obvious symptoms
• Young children: High fever (over 39.5°C), possible febrile seizures
• Children: Gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea), earaches, red eyes

Can flu cause severe muscle pain in children? In some cases, muscle inflammation can lead to intense leg or back pain, which is more common in children than adults.

Duration of Flu Symptoms and Fever

For most healthy individuals, flu symptoms resolve without serious complications. However, the duration can vary:

• Fever and muscle aches: Typically last 2 to 4 days
• Cough and fatigue: May persist for 1 to 2 weeks or longer

How long can fever last with the flu? In most cases, fever associated with influenza lasts between 3 to 5 days. However, some individuals may experience fever for up to a week, especially if secondary infections develop.

Potential Complications of Influenza in Children

While most children recover from flu without serious issues, some may develop complications:

• Croup: Infection of the throat and vocal cords
• Pneumonia: Lung infection
• Bronchiolitis: Infection of small airways leading to the lungs
• Otitis media: Ear infection
• Sinusitis: Sinus infection

Are certain children at higher risk for flu complications? Yes, influenza can be more severe in children under 2 years of age and those with chronic conditions such as heart, lung, or neurological problems.

In rare cases, influenza can affect the brain or heart, leading to more serious complications.

Home Care for Children with Influenza

If your child has the flu, there are several steps you can take to manage symptoms and promote recovery:

1. Keep them comfortable and well-hydrated
2. Offer small, nutritious meals
3. Dress them in lightweight clothing
4. Maintain room temperature around 20°C
5. Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for children over 6 months) to manage fever and pain
6. Avoid aspirin due to the risk of Reye syndrome
7. Use warm water gargles for sore throat relief

Should you use over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for children with flu? It’s generally not recommended to give OTC cough and cold medicines to children under 6 years old unless prescribed by a doctor.

Natural Remedies for Flu Symptoms:

• Honey-based lozenges for children over 3 years (to soothe sore throat)
• Increased fluid intake
• Rest and sleep
• Humidifier to ease congestion

Antiviral Medications for Influenza

In some cases, antiviral drugs may be prescribed to treat influenza, especially for children with underlying health conditions or severe symptoms.

When are antiviral medications most effective? Antiviral drugs should be taken within 48 hours of symptom onset for maximum effectiveness. They can help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms.

Who Should Consider Antiviral Treatment?

• Children with chronic health conditions (e.g., lung or heart disease)
• Individuals with compromised immune systems
• Healthy people with severe influenza symptoms

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any antiviral treatment, as they can assess the individual situation and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most cases of flu can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention, especially in young children.

When should you take your child to the emergency department? For babies under 3 months, seek immediate medical care if they:

• Have difficulty breathing
• Are not feeding well
• Have a high fever that doesn’t respond to medication
• Show signs of dehydration

For older children, watch for these warning signs:

• Rapid or labored breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Lethargy or lack of interaction
• Extreme irritability
• Fever with a rash
• Symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Do flu symptoms always follow the same pattern? It’s important to note that flu can present differently in each individual. If you’re concerned about your child’s symptoms or their recovery, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider.

Preventing Influenza in Children

Prevention is key when it comes to influenza. Here are some strategies to reduce the risk of infection:

Vaccination

Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. It’s particularly important for children, especially those with chronic health conditions.

When is the best time to get a flu shot? Ideally, get vaccinated before flu season begins, typically by the end of October. However, getting vaccinated later can still be beneficial.

Hygiene Practices

• Regular handwashing with soap and water
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap isn’t available
• Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Avoiding touching face with unwashed hands

Environmental Measures

• Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
• Ensuring good ventilation in indoor spaces
• Encouraging sick individuals to stay home

Can you completely prevent flu with these measures? While these strategies significantly reduce the risk of flu, they don’t guarantee complete prevention. However, they can help minimize the spread and severity of influenza infections.

By understanding the symptoms, duration, and potential complications of influenza in children, parents and caregivers can better manage the illness and know when to seek medical attention. Remember, while flu can be serious, most children recover fully with proper care and attention. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.

Influenza in children | Caring for kids

Influenza (or “flu”) is a respiratory infection caused by influenza virus. Influenza outbreaks happen every year, usually between November and April. Because influenza viruses change – often from year to year – people don’t stay immune for very long. That’s why people can catch the flu more than once. The term “seasonal flu” is used for the influenza viruses that spread every year.

How does influenza spread?

Influenza viruses are found in the nose and throat. Children can catch influenza from siblings, parents, other family members, playmates or caregivers.

Germs usually spread in one of 3 ways:

• Direct contact —such as kissing, touching or holding hands—with an infected person. If you have a virus, you will have germs in your nose, mouth, eyes or on your skin. By touching other people, you can pass on the virus. 
• Indirect contact means touching something—a toy, doorknob or a used tissue—that has been touched by an infected person and now has germs on it. Some germs, like the ones that cause colds and diarrhea, can stay on surfaces for many hours. 
• Through the air when a person coughs or sneezes. Droplets from the cough or sneeze may reach another person’s nose or mouth.

How do I know if my child has influenza?

The flu strikes more quickly than a cold, and makes people feel worse. Children with colds usually have energy to play and keep up their daily routines. Children with influenza are usually in bed.

Typical influenza symptoms include:

• sudden fever,
• chills and shakes,
• headache,
• muscle aches,
• extreme fatigue,
• dry cough,
• sore throat, and
• loss of appetite.

Children with the flu may have many of the same symptoms as adults, but there can be differences:

• Newborns and babies may have a high fever that can’t be explained, and no other signs of sickness.
• Young children usually have temperatures over 39. 5°C and may have febrile seizures (convulsions). 
• Upset stomach and pain, vomiting, and diarrhea are common in younger children. Earaches and red eyes are also common. 
• In some cases, muscle inflammation can lead to severe leg or back pain. 

Can the flu cause any other complications?

Most healthy people recover from the flu without any serious problems. Fever and muscle aches usually last only 2 to 4 days, but cough and tiredness can continue for 1 to 2 weeks or more.

In young children, flu can cause croup (an infection of the throat and vocal cords causing hoarseness, barking cough, noisy breathing), pneumonia (lung infection) and bronchiolitis (infection of the tiny airways that lead to the lungs causing wheezing and difficulty breathing).

Influenza can weaken the immune system, leading to bacterial infections of the ear (otitis), lung (pneumonia) or sinuses (sinusitis).

Influenza is more severe in children under 2 years of age and in children with certain chronic conditions such as heart, lung or neurological problems.

In rare cases, influenza can affect the brain or heart.

What can I do if my child has influenza?

• Keep your child as comfortable as possible. Offer plenty of fluids and small, nutritious meals. 
• If they have a fever, dress them in lightweight clothing and keep the room temperature around 20°C. 
• To ease pain, aches or a fever with a temperature greater than 38.5°C, use acetaminophen. Ibuprofen may be used for children over 6 months old. Unless your doctor says otherwise, give the dose recommended on the package every 4-6 hours until the child’s temperature comes down. Don’t give acetylsalicylic acid (ASA [eg, Aspirin])—or any medicine containing it—to children and teenagers with colds because it can lead to brain and liver damage (Reye syndrome).
• Don’t give over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines to children younger than 6 years old unless your doctor prescribes them.
• Gargling with warm water will ease a sore throat.  For children 3 years of age or older who can safely suck on hard candy without choking can use sugarless hard candy or lozenges containing honey, herbs or pectin. Throat lozenges containing medications that numb the throat (dyclonine, benzocaine, hexylresorcinol, menthol and phenol) should not be used by young children because they can make it hard for them to swallow.

Antiviral medications

If your child has lung or heart disease, an illness that affects the immune system or some other chronic condition that requires regular medical attention and you think your child may have influenza, call your doctor right away. Your doctor may prescribe an antiviral drug. These drugs may also be prescribed for healthy people with severe influenza. They should be taken within 48 hours of the first symptoms to be most effective.

When should I call my doctor?

Call your doctor or take your baby to an emergency department if your baby is under 3 months of age and:

• is having trouble breathing,
• is not eating or is vomiting, or 
• has a fever (rectal temperature of 38. 5°C or higher).

Call your doctor or take your child to an emergency department if your child is:

• breathing rapidly or seems to be working hard to breathe,
• having chest pain, or is coughing up bloody sputum (phlegm or saliva), 
• coughing so bad that they are choking or vomiting,
• drinking very little fluid and have not urinated (peed) at least every 6 hours when awake, 
• vomiting for more than 4 hours, or has severe diarrhea, 
• much sleepier than usual, doesn’t want to feed or play, or is very fussy and cannot be comforted,
• not feeling better after 5 days and still has a fever, or was feeling better and suddenly develops a new fever, or showing signs of the flu and has a serious chronic illness. 

Take your child immediately to a hospital emergency department or call 911 if your child:

• has severe trouble breathing or blue lips,
• is limp or unable to move, 
• is hard to wake up or does not respond, 
• has a stiff neck, 
• seems confused, or 
• has a seizure (convulsion).  

How can I prevent the spread of influenza? 

• Influenza can be prevented through immunization. Children over 6 months old should get a flu shot each year. 
• If there are children younger than 5 years old or someone with a serious chronic condition in your home, everyone living in the house should get a flu shot. This is especially important if there are children under 6 months old in the home, since babies this age can’t get the flu shot themselves and could become infected if a family member gets the flu.  
• Handwashing is the most important way to reduce the spread of viruses.
• Keep babies under 3 months old away from people who are sick, if possible.
• Teach your children to cover their nose and mouth with tissues when they sneeze or cough, or to cough into their upper sleeve or elbow. 
• Avoid sharing toys that young children place in their mouths until the toys have been cleaned. 
• Avoid sharing cups, utensils or towels until they have been washed.
• If your child attends daycare, tell the caregiver about any symptoms and ask if your child should stay home that day.
• Make sure your child receives all of the recommended vaccines. They will help prevent some of the complications, such as bacterial infections of the ears or lungs.

More information from the CPS

Reviewed by the following CPS committees

• Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee

Last updated: August 2021

Influenza (flu) and pregnancy | March of Dimes

It’s safe to get the flu shot. It protects you and your baby from serious health problems during and after pregnancy.

Pregnant women who get the flu are more likely than women who don’t get it to have problems, like preterm labor and premature birth.

If you think you have the flu, call your health care provider right away. Quick treatment can help prevent serious flu complications.

What is the flu?

Influenza (also called flu) is a virus that can cause serious illness. It’s more than just a runny nose and sore throat. The flu can make you very sick, and it can be especially harmful if you get it during or right after pregnancy.

How does the flu spread?

The flu spreads easily from person to person. When someone with the flu coughs, sneezes or speaks, the virus spreads through the air. You can get infected with the flu if you breathe it in or if you touch something (like a door handle or a phone) that has the flu virus on it and then touch your nose, eyes or mouth.

People with the flu may be able to infect others from 1 day before they get sick up to 5 to 7 days after. People who are very sick with the flu or young children may be able to spread the flu longer, especially if they still have symptoms.

How can the flu harm your pregnancy?

Health complications from the flu, like a lung infection called pneumonia, can be serious and even deadly, especially if you’re pregnant. If you get the flu during pregnancy, you’re more likely than other adults to have serious complications. It’s best to get a flu shot before you get pregnant. Getting a flu shot can help reduce your risk of getting the flu, having serious flu complications and needing treatment in a hospital.

Pregnant women who get the flu are more likely than women who don’t get it to have preterm labor (labor that happens before 37 weeks of pregnancy) and preterm birth (birth that happens before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Fever from the flu may be linked to birth defects, like neural tube defects, and other problems in your baby. A birth defect is a health condition that is present at birth. Birth defects change the shape or function of one or more parts of the body. They can cause problems in overall health, how the body develops, or in how the body works. Neural tube defects are birth defects of the brain and spinal cord.

How does the flu shot help protect you from flu?

The flu shot contains a vaccine that helps prevent you from getting the flu. The flu shot can’t cause the flu. It’s safe to get a flu shot any time during pregnancy, but it’s best to get it before flu season (October through May). Even though you’re more likely to get the flu during flu season, you can get it any time of year.

There are many different flu viruses, and they’re always changing. Each year a new flu vaccine is made to protect against three or four flu viruses that are likely to make people sick during the upcoming flu season. Protection from a flu shot only lasts about a year, so it’s important to get a flu shot every year. You can get the shot from your health care provider, and many pharmacies and work places offer it each fall. Use the HealthMap Vaccine Finder to find out where you can get the flu vaccine.

Is it safe to get a flu shot during pregnancy?

It’s safe for most pregnant women to get the flu shot. Tell your health care provider if you have any severe allergies or if you’ve ever had a severe allergic reaction to a flu shot. Severe allergic reactions to flu shots are rare. If you’re worried about being allergic to the flu shot, talk to your provider to make sure it’s safe for you.

Some flu vaccines are made with eggs. Most women with egg allergies can get the flu shot. But if you have severe egg allergies, get the shot in a medical setting (like a doctor’s office, hospital or clinic) from a provider who knows how to treat severe allergies and allergic reactions.

Pregnant women should not get the flu nasal spray. This is a spray that’s put in your nose.

What are signs and symptoms of the flu?

Signs of a condition are things someone else can see or know about you, like you have a rash or you’re coughing. Symptoms are things you feel yourself that others can’t see, like having a sore throat or feeling dizzy. Common signs and symptoms of the flu include:

• Being very tired or sleepy (also called fatigue)
• Cough
• Fever (100 F or above), chills or body shakes. Not everyone who has the flu has a fever.
• Headache, or muscle or body aches
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Vomiting (throwing up) or diarrhea (more common in children)

The flu often comes on quickly. Fever and most other symptoms can last a week or longer. But some people can be sick from the flu for a long time, including children, people older than 65, pregnant women and women who have recently had a baby.

Call 911 and get medical care right away if you have any of these signs or symptoms:

• Feeling your baby move less or not at all
• High fever that doesn’t go down after taking acetaminophen (Tylenol®). Don’t take any medicine without checking with your provider first.
• Pain or pressure in the chest or belly
• Sudden dizziness or confusion
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Vomiting that’s severe or doesn’t stop
• Flu signs or symptoms that get better but then come back with fever and a worse cough

How is the flu treated during pregnancy?

If you think you have the flu even if you’ve been vaccinated, call your health care provider right away. Your provider may prescribe an antiviral medicine to help prevent or treat the flu. Antivirals kill infections caused by viruses. They can make your flu milder and help you feel better faster. Antivirals also can help prevent serious flu complications, like pneumonia. For flu, antivirals work best if you take them within 2 days of having symptoms. Quick treatment with antiviral medicine can help prevent serious flu complications.

If you’ve had close contact with someone who has the flu during your pregnancy or in the 2 weeks after giving birth, tell your health care provider. Even if you don’t have signs or symptoms of flu, your provider may want to treat you with an antiviral medicine to help prevent you from getting the flu and having serious complications.

Three medicines are approved in the United States to prevent or treat the flu in pregnant women and women who recently had a baby. Talk to your provider about which one is right for you:

1. Oseltamivir (brand name Tamiflu®). This medicine comes as a capsule or liquid.
2. Zanamivir (brand name Relenza®). This medicine is a powder that you breathe in by mouth. It isn’t recommended for people with breathing problems, like asthma.
3. Peramivir (Rapivab®). This medicine is given through a needle into a vein (also called IV) by a health care provider.

If you have a fever, call your provider as soon as possible. Before taking any over-the-counter medication, be sure to check with your provider first. Not all medication is safe to take during pregnancy. If you have the flu, get lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids. You may not want to eat much. Try eating small meals to help your body get better.

How can you stop the flu from spreading?

When you have the flu, you can spread it to others. Here’s what you can do to help prevent it from spreading:

• Stay home when you’re sick and limit contact with others.
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your arm. Throw used tissues in the trash.
• Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before touching anyone. You also can use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Use enough hand sanitizer so that it takes at least 15 seconds for your hands to dry.
• Wash your dishes and utensils well with hot soapy water, or in a dishwasher if you have one.
• Don’t share your dishes, glasses, utensils or toothbrush.

Why is the flu so harmful during pregnancy?

The flu can be dangerous during pregnancy because pregnancy affects your immune system, heart and lungs. Your immune system is your body’s way of protecting itself from illnesses and diseases. When your body senses something like a virus that can harm your health, your immune system works hard to fight the virus.

When you’re pregnant, your immune system isn’t as quick to respond to illnesses as it was before pregnancy. A lowered immune system means you’re more likely get sick with viruses like the flu.

During pregnancy, your lungs need more oxygen, especially in the second and third trimesters. Your growing belly puts pressure on your lungs, making them work harder in a smaller space. You may even find yourself feeling shortness of breath at times. Your heart is working hard, too. It’s busy supplying blood to you and your baby. All of this means your body is stressed during pregnancy. This stress on your body can make you more likely to get the flu. If you’re pregnant or had a baby within the last 2 weeks, you’re more likely than other women to have serious health problems from the flu.

More information

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Flu & Pregnancy

Flu.gov

What is the Flu? Common Influenza Questions (familiesfightingflu.org)

Last reviewed: November, 2022

What temperature is dangerous during flu and why you should not bring it down

Contents

• 1 What temperature during flu is the norm, how many days does it last and why is it difficult to reduce it?
  • 1. 1 influenza: Temperature danger
  • 1.2 Why the temperature at the flu can become dangerous
  • 1.3 Why not knock down a high temperature at a flu
  • 1.4 What happens when the temperature is knocked down
  • 1.5 Why shouldn’t be shot down the temperature during the flu?
    • 1.5.1 What problems can arise from bringing down the temperature in influenza
  • 1.6 What methods of relief can be used without lowering the temperature
  • 1.7 What signs indicate the need to reduce the temperature in influenza?
  • 1.8 When to Lower Your Fever
  • 1.9 Precautions for Lowering Influenza Fever
  • 1.10 What to do if the temperature is dangerously high and does not go down
  • 1.11 At what temperature should you see a doctor
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What temperature is dangerous for influenza?
      • 1.13.0.2 Why should you not bring down the temperature during the flu?
      • 1. 13.0.3 Is it possible to lower the temperature in case of influenza if it has reached 40 degrees?
      • 1.13.0.4 Can I drink ice water when I have the flu?
      • 1.13.0.5 What if the flu does not bring down the temperature?
      • 1.13.0.6 How often can I take flu remedies?

Find out what a high fever is for flu, how long it can last, and why it’s so hard to bring down. Tips for caring for the sick and ways to help him cope with a high temperature.

Influenza is an acute infectious disease that causes weakening of the body, fever and other unpleasant symptoms. However, not all patients know what temperature is life-threatening and how to bring it down correctly. Mistakes in the treatment of influenza can lead to serious complications and even death.

Lowering the temperature with influenza is often considered a medical procedure, especially with high rates. However, there are risks that can aggravate the patient’s condition. For example, taking ethyl alcohol at a low temperature can lead to hypothermia and even disruption of the internal organs.

A safer way to reduce flu fever is to use hyperthermia methods such as clothing reduction, drinking plenty of water, and sensory methods to reduce fever.

So, it is important to remember that lowering the temperature in case of influenza is not always effective and it is not worth risking your health. If your condition worsens, contact your doctor who will select the necessary drugs for treatment and ensure quality care.

Influenza: temperature danger

Influenza is a widespread disease that affects the human respiratory system. Its symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, and muscle pain.

Therefore, one should not rush to reduce the body temperature during influenza, if it has not reached dangerous values ​​(for example, more than 39 degrees). This can slow down the process of self-healing of the body and deprive it of the ability to cope with the disease.

It is important to understand that each organism has its own reaction to an increase in temperature. If you’re not sure what to do, it’s best to talk to your doctor, who can help determine if you need treatment and suggest the most effective strategy to fight the flu.

Why flu fever can be dangerous

Flu is an upper respiratory infection that can cause fever. The normal temperature of the human body is 36-37 degrees Celsius, but with the flu, the temperature can rise to 38-40 degrees.

Fever is the body’s natural defense mechanism to fight infection. High temperatures help kill viruses and speed up the healing process.

However, if the temperature is too high, it can lead to serious consequences, including convulsions, dehydration, and respiratory arrest. Also, high temperatures can damage certain organs, such as the brain or heart.

Therefore, if the flu temperature exceeds 39 degrees, you should consult a doctor and take measures to reduce it. However, some medications, such as aspirin, can be dangerous for people with the flu, especially children and teenagers, so it’s best to check with your doctor before using any medication.

Why you shouldn’t bring down a high temperature during the flu

High temperature is a protective reaction of the body , which helps to destroy the viruses and bacteria that caused the flu. It is necessary to activate the immune system, which fights infection. If we bring down the temperature during the flu, then we weaken the body’s natural defenses.

In addition, bringing down the temperature can be hazardous to health . With a decrease in temperature, blood flow decreases and metabolism slows down, which can lead to difficult recovery of the body and complications. Reactions to medications that counteract fever are also possible.

Instead of lowering the temperature, measures should be taken that will alleviate the patient’s condition . For example, drink more fluids, increase the humidity in the air, take warm baths, and avoid strenuous exercise. It is also important to monitor the patient’s condition and consult a doctor at the first signs of deterioration.

What happens when the temperature is brought down

When a patient develops a high temperature due to the flu, this is the body’s natural response to an infection. Thus, the body tries to cope with the disease itself. Improved health is possible as a result, as fever is the body’s way of fighting disease.

Many people bring down the temperature with medication, but this may not be the right solution in some cases. If the temperature is not at a critical level, then it is better to let the body fight the disease on its own. If the temperature is at a critical level, then you should immediately seek medical help.

• Self-lowering the temperature can lead to a decrease in immunity, which will complicate the body’s fight against infection.
• Also, some medicines used to reduce fever can have side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and other health problems.
• In addition, if medicines are used incorrectly, this can lead to complications and aggravation of the disease.

Therefore, if you have a high temperature due to the flu, it is best to consult your doctor and follow his recommendations for reducing the temperature. Do not risk your health, trust medical specialists.

Why should you not bring down the temperature when you have the flu?

What problems can arise from bringing down the temperature with influenza

When the body temperature is high, the body’s fight against infection becomes more effective. Bringing down the temperature with the flu can lead to a weakened immune system, an increase in the duration of the illness and an increase in the likelihood of complications.

In addition, a decrease in temperature can lead to weakening of blood vessels and disruption of the blood supply to organs, which can cause serious complications, such as organ dysfunction, stroke or heart attack.

Instead of bringing down the temperature, it is recommended to use ways to reduce it, which do not affect the body as a whole, but are aimed at relieving symptoms. For example, you can take medicines that reduce pain and headaches, drink plenty of fluids, and prefer light, non-burdensome meals.

What methods can be used to relieve the condition without reducing the temperature

When you have the flu with a high fever, many people immediately take antipyretic drugs. However, since temperature is your body’s defensive reaction, sometimes it’s better not to bring it down.

What to do if the condition worsens and the temperature cannot be lowered? There are many ways that can help improve your well-being.

1. Drink plenty of fluids. Stay hydrated to avoid heat-induced dehydration.
2. Rest. Decreasing activity will help your body cope with the disease.
3. Take warm baths. A warm bath can help relax muscles and relieve pain.
4. Apply cold compresses to the forehead and neck. This can help bring down the temperature in certain areas without affecting the whole body.
5. Use fans. Put a fan in your room to create a fresh air flow.

It is important to remember that if the flu is severe and lasts more than three days, it is best to see a specialist. Also, keep in mind that the suggested methods may help reduce some symptoms, but are not a substitute for medication and professional medical care.

What signs indicate the need to lower the temperature in case of influenza?

High body temperature is one of the main symptoms of influenza. It can reach 38-40 degrees Celsius and be accompanied by severe headaches, chills, weakness and loss of appetite. If the body temperature continues to rise, this may indicate a severe course of the disease. In this case, it is very important not to postpone the decrease in temperature until later.

Trembling and sweating may also be symptoms that indicate the need for an immediate reduction in temperature. This means that the body is actively fighting the infection, and you must help it in this.

An increased heart rate can also be a sign of high fever and severe disease. If you feel a strong heartbeat and chills, you need to take measures to reduce the temperature.

So, if you have at least one of the symptoms described above, you need to take measures to reduce the temperature. In this case, it should not be postponed until later, as a high temperature can be accompanied by complications and serious health consequences.

When you should still lower your temperature

There are a number of cases when you should lower your temperature for illnesses, including influenza. One such case is high fever, which can lead to dehydration and serious complications. If the temperature exceeds 39 degrees, measures must be taken to reduce it.

If fever is accompanied by convulsions or other dangerous symptoms, such as severe dizziness or loss of consciousness, lowering the temperature may be necessary. These symptoms may indicate serious health problems and require medical attention.

Various methods can be used to reduce fever, including the use of cold compresses or taking antipyretic drugs. However, it must be remembered that these methods should only be used as prescribed by a doctor, as improper use can lead to negative consequences.

Precautions for Reducing Influenza Fever

Reducing the temperature during influenza can lead to a mistaken feeling that the condition is improving, although the disease continues. Therefore, it is not recommended to take measures to bring down the temperature on your own.

If the patient’s temperature does not drop for a long time, as well as if complications occur, it is necessary to seek medical help.

It is important to ensure good access to oxygen and avoid hypothermia, which can worsen the patient’s condition.

The patient should be kept calm and humidified regularly in the room where he is. Next to the patient should be a bowl of water, in which you can add essential oils with an antiseptic effect.

Particular attention should be paid to hand hygiene and the use of personal hygiene items. It is recommended to use disposable diapers and wipes and ventilate the room as often as possible.

By following all the recommendations and seeking medical help in a timely manner, the patient will be able to quickly get rid of the flu and avoid possible complications.

What to do if the temperature is dangerously high and not going down

If the flu temperature is high and not going down, you need to see a doctor. This situation can be especially dangerous for children and the elderly, as well as for people with chronic diseases.

Your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your temperature and relieve flu symptoms. The patient may need to be hospitalized. It is dangerous to try to lower the temperature on your own, as this can lead to complications and an increased risk of side effects.

It is important to remember that a high temperature during influenza is a protective reaction of the body to infection. It contributes to the destruction of viruses and bacteria that cause disease. Therefore, if the temperature is not dangerously high and does not exceed 38-39degrees, then you should not knock it down, but it is better to let the body cope with the infection itself.

In any case, you should follow the doctor’s recommendations and not neglect your health. After all, proper treatment of the flu can help avoid complications and return to normal life faster.

At what temperature should you see a doctor

High body temperature with influenza is a common symptom of the disease. However, not always a high temperature is dangerous – the body is trying to fight the infection. You should consult a doctor if the temperature is above 38.5 degrees and does not decrease with the use of antipyretics.

Critical for health is a temperature above 39 degrees , which can cause dizziness, loss of consciousness and even convulsions. In this case, you need to call a doctor immediately.

It is also important to see a doctor if the temperature does not decrease for more than three days or recurs after a short period of time. This may indicate complications from the flu and require additional testing and treatment.

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Q&A:

What temperature is dangerous for influenza?

Temperatures above 38.5 degrees Celsius can be dangerous with the flu. High temperatures indicate the body’s fight against infection and it can kill viruses. However, if the temperature is reluctant to decrease and persists for more than 3 days, you should consult a doctor.

Why should you not bring down the temperature with the flu?

Temperature is part of the body’s natural fight against infection. It increases the reaction rate of the immune system and kills viruses that do not survive at temperatures above 38 degrees. Bringing down the temperature will slow down this process and may prolong the duration of the flu.

Is it possible to lower the temperature in case of influenza if it has reached 40 degrees?

Yes, if the temperature has reached 40 degrees, it must be lowered. This is due to the fact that at very high temperatures, damage to organs and the nervous system is possible. However, the temperature should not be reduced to normal, it is necessary to reduce it by 1-2 degrees.

Can I drink ice water when I have the flu?

No, it is not recommended to drink ice water when you have the flu. This can cause spasm of blood vessels, increase the temperature and make you feel worse. It is better to drink room temperature water or herbal teas.

What should I do if the flu does not bring down the temperature?

If the temperature does not decrease or stays above 38. 5 degrees Celsius for more than 3 days, a doctor should be consulted. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help lower your fever and reduce flu symptoms.

How often can I take flu remedies?

Flu fever reducers may be taken up to 3 times a day, at least 4 hours apart. However, it is recommended to take them only when necessary, when the temperature reaches 38.5 degrees Celsius and above, or there are other symptoms that significantly worsen well-being.

High fever in colds and flu: benefits and harms

Rinza®

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Colds and flu

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High fever in colds and flu

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High fever with colds and influenza

• 06/26/2023

• 148 799

• 5 minutes

90 214 Co-author, editor and medical expert

Maksimov Alexander Alekseevich

Editor

Harutyunyan Mariam

Contents:

• What happens when the temperature rises?
• What to do when the temperature is high?

Contents of the articleWhat happens when the temperature rises?What to do when the temperature is high?

Fever, headache, fever, what should I do in such a situation? As a rule, when these symptoms appear, we try to use all available methods to bring down the high temperature. However, in fact, temperature is an assistant on the path to recovery for an adult and a child. Its increase means that the body not only reacts to the disease, but fights viruses and bacteria. To understand how long the disease can last, what to do at a temperature, if your head, throat, eyes hurt, you need to consider the main causes and mechanism of the appearance of fever.

What happens when the temperature rises?

Usually, at elevated temperature, the hands and feet are cold – the patient feels chills, “ache” in the body, pain in the eyes ¹ . The surface of the skin tends to become dry and hot. This condition may be accompanied by an increase in heart rate, a feeling of pain in the muscles and joints, in the throat, and a decrease in appetite. All unpleasant sensations (for example, with the flu, if the temperature is high, the head and eyes hurt) are the result of the reaction of pain receptors that signal the brain about intoxication of the body ¹ . The increase in heart rate in this case is associated with an acceleration of metabolism and a decrease in sweating – the main mechanism for cooling the body. Sweating “turns on” only after the temperature begins to decrease, and headache and muscle pain, as a rule, decrease. Thus, temperature, headache and “ache” are closely related.

What to do when the temperature is high?

To bring down only the temperature above 38 °C

It is not always necessary to bring down the high temperature of an adult with flu or a cold with the help of antipyretics. After all, this is how the body fights infection naturally.0295 2 . If you have the opportunity to calmly get sick, or you normally tolerate a high temperature, you can not make attempts to bring it down. But only if it is below 38 °C and there is no deterioration in the general condition ² . How the disease proceeds depends on how many days an adult has a fever with influenza: on average, it is 1-2 days.

Use warming products with caution at home

Care should be taken when using hot compresses, mustard plasters and other warming procedures, which are often resorted to if the temperature persists and the hands become cold. The use of these drugs has a vasodilating effect, which, in turn, can provoke an even greater increase in temperature and increased headache.

Create conditions for normal sweating

Intense sweating helps the body fight high temperature. Evaporating from the surface of the body, sweat protects the body from overheating. Therefore, it is important that there are no obstacles for normal sweating: the sick person should not be wrapped tightly.

Create a comfortable microclimate in the room

If you have a fever, a headache and a sore throat, and the room is hot and/or stuffy, you can slightly open the window or window. At the same time, the sick person himself should not be under a draft, since this is highly likely to provoke a worsening of the flu or a cold. It is believed that the air in the room should not be cold, but not exceed 25 ° C. It is recommended to ventilate the patient’s room for about 15 minutes. In uncomfortable conditions, the already high temperature rises further, and the general condition worsens even more. To keep your body cool naturally, you can undress to your underwear during the day.

Drink plenty of fluids

When you have a high temperature and excessive sweating, the body loses a lot of fluid, the lack of which must be replenished. To avoid dehydration, the drink should be plentiful and unsweetened, for example, mineral water or fruit drink is suitable. It is also important that toxins are eliminated from the body along with the fluid ¹ .

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Read more in the material “What to drink with a cold?”

Thus, elevated temperature should not be considered an absolute enemy. It must be reduced carefully and carefully. What to do with a very high temperature and sore throat, how can it be knocked down? RINZA® 9 may be the solution0295 3 and RINZAsip® with vitamin C ⁴ .