Elevated temperature is an indicator of a person’s thermal state higher than 37.2 degrees. In normal condition, body temperature should be between 36.5-37.2 degrees. This condition may indicate the development of an infectious, inflammatory process. However, it should be noted that an increase in body temperature may not always be a sign of illness. A doctor can reveal the exact clinical picture; self-medication is unacceptable and can lead to the development of serious pathological processes.
Etiology
Clinicians note that an increase in body temperature does not always indicate the development of the disease. In fact, such a symptom acts as a protective reaction of the body to any violation. The cause of this symptom may be the following etiological factors:
- infectious or inflammatory process;
- strong, nervous overstrain;
- side effect medication;
- complication of an existing illness;
- heat stroke, burn;
- elevated physical exercise;
- fever of unknown etiology;
- cancer;
- complication of gastroenterological pathology;
- in women during the period after ovulation;
- an illness of an autoimmune nature;
- complications after surgery.
Also, a sharp increase in temperature is observed at. This condition is especially dangerous in the case of children, since the child’s body is not able to withstand such processes.
It should also be noted that an increase in body temperature is most likely if a person has a weakened immune system.
Classification
There are the following types of high body temperature:
- pyretic - 39-41 degrees;
- hyperpyretic - over 41 degrees.
This human condition requires immediate medical intervention. Delay or taking medications at your own discretion can cause serious complications, including death. What to do when high temperature Only a doctor can tell after examination and an accurate diagnosis.
It should be distinguished - body temperature up to 39 degrees is considered elevated, and above 39 degrees is considered high.
Symptoms
A high fever without symptoms is extremely rare in an adult. As a rule, this human condition manifests itself in the form of the following symptoms:
- general weakness, increased fatigue;
- drowsiness;
- practically complete absence appetite;
- muscle pain;
- fluid loss;
- low blood pressure;
- lack of coordination.
A high temperature in a child can manifest itself in the form of the following signs:
- moodiness;
- drowsiness;
- lack of appetite;
- general weakness.
In more difficult cases the general clinical picture may be supplemented by convulsions, hallucinations and delusions. Additional signs of the general clinical picture will depend on the causes of the high temperature. In any case, you cannot take medications at your own discretion in this case. This can lead not only to a worsening of the condition, but also to a blurred clinical picture, which significantly complicates further diagnosis.
It should be noted that, just like in adults, a high temperature without symptoms is extremely rare in a child. This is due to the fact that the immune system of a child’s body is much weaker than that of an adult and any disturbance in the functioning of the body manifests itself quite quickly.
Diagnostics
Why the body temperature rises, only a doctor can say after examination and an accurate diagnosis.
Initially, a detailed physical examination of the patient is performed, including a general history if the patient's condition allows. To clarify the etiological factors and make an accurate diagnosis, the following laboratory tests are used: instrumental methods research:
- rectal and axillary measurement of body heat index;
- sputum collection;
- examination of stool and urine.
Depending on the expected diagnosis, the following instrumental diagnostic methods can be used:
- x-ray examination of organs abdominal cavity;
- X-ray;
- gynecological examinations.
Only after establishing the etiology of the development of such pathological process and accurate diagnosis, the doctor can prescribe general treatment and pick up therapeutic methods to eliminate this symptom.
Treatment
Only a doctor can tell you how to bring down a high fever in a child or an adult. Elimination of such a symptom will depend on the etiology. General measures for this condition of the patient are as follows:
- Strict bed rest should be observed. The patient's clothing should be made of light fabric that will allow the body to “breathe” and thereby alleviate the condition;
- the room in which the patient is located should be regularly ventilated;
- you need to consume a large amount of liquid at room temperature - tea, milk, compotes, juices;
- at a temperature of 39 degrees and above, compresses should be applied to the forehead, neck and wrists. The composition of the liquid for the compress must be agreed upon with the attending physician.
Antipyretics for high fever in adults and children should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor.
As for the patient’s nutrition during such a period, it should be based on the following recommendations:
- the patient's food should be light - fruit or vegetable purees, chicken broth, light cottage cheese or vegetable casseroles;
- drinking plenty of water;
- eating in small portions.
Most often, in this state, a person has almost complete loss of appetite. You should not overpower the body and take food in the usual quantity, as this can lead to disruption of the gastrointestinal tract and a general deterioration in well-being.
Prohibited activities at high temperatures
The following are strictly prohibited at high temperatures:
- rubbing the patient with alcohol tinctures and pure alcohol - this will only lead to an increase in the body’s thermal index;
- wrap the patient in blankets or dress in synthetic clothing;
- give the patient sweet drinks;
- create a draft in the room.
Erroneously, such actions are taken to stabilize body temperature, which only aggravates the development of the pathological process.
Prevention
As such preventive measures There is no resistance to this disruption in the body’s functioning. However, if applied in practice general recommendations by strengthening the immune system, you can, if not exclude, then significantly reduce the risk of developing such a pathological process.
- follow a daily routine and eat right;
- strengthen the immune system;
- undergo regular medical examinations by specialized medical specialists;
- Seek medical help promptly if you feel unwell.
Such simple rules will help prevent the development of serious complications.
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In order to determine the purpose of our actions (when and what temperature to lower), let’s consider the mechanism for increasing it.
The thermoregulation center of every person is located in the brain (in the hypothalamus). When pathogenic particles enter the body, it triggers the process of activating the immune system. Specific interferon proteins - pyrogens - are produced, and antibodies are synthesized. All of them are capable of fighting foreign particles and at the same time trigger a mechanism for increasing temperature. For example, the higher the temperature rises, the more interferon is produced. Thus, the body is capable of defeating even the most dangerous microorganisms on its own, and a temperature of 38 degrees indicates this fight. It is not advisable to knock it down to give your own immunity a chance.
There is only one problem with this: all pathogenic bacteria are “burned” by temperatures above 40 degrees (pneumococci, gonococci, spirochetes), but humans are also living organisms and they are also destructive for them. This means that there is a limit, having crossed which, it is vital to bring down the temperature.
Causes of temperature 39
Since ancient times, temperature has been considered the main and oldest indicator of a person’s internal state. So, if the temperature is 39 without symptoms, then this may indicate the occurrence of an inflammatory process caused by one of the factors:
- common infectious diseases (flu, sore throat, ARVI, pneumonia, dysentery);
- rare infections (malaria);
- development of an inflammatory (purulent) focus after operations, injuries;
- thermal burns;
- endocrine disorders (pancreatitis);
- exacerbation of inflammation previously present (pyelonephritis, hepatitis, adnexitis).
A high temperature depends on the reactions occurring in the body, and not on the severity of the disease. How younger man and the stronger his immunity, the stronger the temperature reaction.
There are other temperature changes associated with age. For example, in children during teething, the limits of temperature increase can reach 39.
Ways of development of temperature reaction
The temperature reaction develops in two ways:
- A sudden reaction to an emerging infection despite yesterday’s well-being.
- When the temperature begins to rise after surgery.
On the first way, temperature 39 often occurs suddenly at night, although in the evening there were no prerequisites for this. The person begins to get sick, feel a fever that gradually increases, but he does not feel any other symptoms other than malaise.
In the second case, you need to consult a doctor without delay; a temperature of 39 may be a signal of reproduction pathogenic organisms. All surgical interventions involve the use of antibiotics and other medications, the main goal of which is to prevent inflammation. Fever indicates otherwise.
What should not be done at a temperature of 39?
If your temperature suddenly rises to 39, there is no need to use means that can further increase it:
- do not drink hot tea, milk;
- do not apply warm compresses or mustard plasters;
- do not take a hot shower, bath, or warm up in a sauna;
- do not wear warm clothes, socks, or use a warm or electric blanket.
What to do if an adult has a temperature of 39? Do not rush to reduce it with medications without finding out the cause of the fever. On the first day of high fever, taking them is inappropriate, providing a sense of false security, distorting the true picture, and carrying the risk of side effects. allergic reactions, irritates the stomach.
The exception is people with pathologies of cardio-vascular system and pregnant women. Rapid heartbeat over several days caused by a fever can have adverse effects on the heart muscle and fetal development.
If you need to wait a while with antipyretic drugs, and there is aches throughout the body, headache, photophobia, weakness, urge to vomit, feeling of weakness are increasing, then how to bring down the temperature of 39?! To do this, you need to start with proven non-drug methods, the effectiveness of which lies in their complex (don’t stop at tea with lemon):
- A prerequisite is bed rest! (at high temperatures, it is important to spend the first days in bed to reduce the load on the heart);
- drink as much liquid as possible at room temperature (cranberry, viburnum juice);
- eat foods rich in vitamin C (orange, sour grapes);
- wipe the body with cotton napkins soaked in cold water(frequent sweating is very important);
- apply wipes soaked in cold water to the forehead, neck, armpits (avoid overheating);
- cool your feet in a cool bath (if there are no pathologies from the genitourinary system);
- be in loose, natural clothing (allow the body to sweat, do not sweat it with synthetic materials).
We must remember that bringing down a temperature of 39 does not mean defeating the disease. For this next step consists of observing yourself, the following days will indicate the cause of the fever. If a temperature of 39 was caused by a cold, symptoms of a runny nose, cough, sore throat and sore throat will appear. Exacerbation chronic diseases will indicate their symptoms. The flu state can manifest itself only with signs of fever: weakness, muscle pain, muscle hypertonicity, photosensitivity, nausea, headache.
All days while the temperature continues to be high, you need to continue to drink plenty of fluids, wipe away sweat with cool napkins, which will help establish the process of thermoregulation.
The next 4 days will be a turning point, the temperature will “creep” down.
In order not to risk your health, to prevent complications of colds in the form of bronchopneumonia or pneumonia, you need to call a doctor at home. He will be able to examine the throat, listen to breathing and identify the cause of the temperature and prescribe treatment.
If your stomach hurts and your temperature is 39 degrees, the only solution is to call ambulance. Intestinal infections, attack of appendicitis, renal pathologies, pancreatic reactions, acute inflammation of the ovaries in women cannot be relieved at home. They demand inpatient care, additional diagnostics using tests, ultrasound, computed tomography and taking comprehensive measures medical care. A high temperature threshold in these cases signals a rapidly growing pathology and may require immediate action. Taking painkillers and antipyretic medications before the doctor arrives is contraindicated in this situation; you need to relieve the fever using recommended methods.
Why is a temperature above 39 dangerous?
A temperature of 39 and 5 in an adult is the threshold for depression of the central nervous system. Each degree of temperature increase increases the pulse rate by 10 beats per minute, the tissue need for oxygen increases, and metabolic and metabolic processes accelerate. During extreme heat, increased evaporation of moisture occurs, dehydration occurs, and decreased blood pressure, reflex muscle contractions (cramps) may occur.
Fever with readings of more than 40 degrees poses a threat to the brain and can cause irreversible changes in proteins (denaturation), which is dangerous for human life. Therefore, a temperature of 39.5 requires the immediate use of antipyretics. Children are especially susceptible to such temperature fluctuations, so special care is needed when caring for a sick child.
When measuring the temperature of an adult, you need to take into account the fact that the range of the indicator varies depending on the type of thermometry. So, in armpit the temperature will be one degree less than when measured in the mouth and 1.5 degrees different from the data in the rectum.
If you need to bring down the temperature of 39 in an adult, it is recommended to use pharmaceuticals for this:
- Ibuprofen (indicated for use in adults and children, produces a persistent antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect);
- Paracetamol(a non-narcotic analgesic and antipyretic drug that does not have an anti-inflammatory effect);
- Nice(an anti-inflammatory drug that reduces pain and fever);
- Movalis(has anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effect at all stages of inflammation).
The pharmaceutical industry produces new products every year modern drugs, which can be used to bring down the temperature 39. You should get a recommendation on which one to choose from your family doctor or therapist. It will be based on knowledge of your individual characteristics, the effect of drugs on the digestive tract, hematopoietic system, allergic reactions. When taking antipyretic drugs, it is necessary to strictly adhere to the dosage and time between doses.
Our expert - Candidate of Medical Sciences, neurologistMarina Alexandrova.
If you are sure that your thermometer is not broken, then there must be some other reasons for the increase in temperature. Let's consider the most likely options. Some should not cause you concern, but others may make you worry.
Everything is fine
You - middle menstrual cycle (of course, if you are a woman). For many representatives of the fairer sex, the temperature usually rises slightly during ovulation and normalizes with the onset of menstruation. Return to measurements after 2-3 days.
The evening has come. It turns out that temperature fluctuations in many people can occur within one day. In the morning, immediately after waking up, the temperature is minimal, and in the evening it usually rises by half a degree. Go to bed and try to measure your temperature in the morning.
You recently played sports and danced. Physically and emotionally intense activities increase blood circulation and warm up the body. Calm down, rest for an hour and then put the thermometer under your arm again.
You are slightly overheated. For example, you just took a bath (water or sun). Or maybe you drank hot or intoxicating drinks, or simply dressed too warmly? Let your body cool down: sit in the shade, ventilate the room, take off excess clothing, drink soft drinks. So how? 36.6 again? And you were worried!
You have experienced severe stress. There is even a special term - psychogenic temperature. If something very unpleasant has happened in life, or maybe there is an unfavorable atmosphere at home or at work that makes you constantly nervous, then perhaps this is the reason that “warms you up” from the inside. Psychogenic fever is often accompanied by symptoms such as general bad feeling, shortness of breath and dizziness.
Low-grade fever is your norm. There are people for whom the normal value on the thermometer is not 36.6, but 37 °C or even a little higher. As a rule, this applies to asthenic boys and girls who, in addition to an elegant physique, also have a fine mental organization. Do you recognize yourself? Then you can rightfully consider yourself a “hot thing.”
It's time to see a doctor!
If you do not have any of the above circumstances and at the same time measurements taken with the same thermometer over several days and in different time days show inflated numbers, it is better to find out what this may be connected with. Low-grade fever can accompany diseases and conditions such as:
Tuberculosis. Given the current alarming situation with the incidence of tuberculosis, it would not be superfluous to do fluorography. Moreover, this study is mandatory and must be carried out annually for all persons over 15 years of age. This is the only way to reliably control this dangerous disease.
Thyrotoxicosis. In addition to elevated temperature, nervousness and emotional instability, sweating and palpitations, increased fatigue and weakness, weight loss against the background of normal or even increased appetite are most often noted. To diagnose thyrotoxicosis, it is enough to determine the level thyroid-stimulating hormone in blood. Its decrease indicates an excess of hormones thyroid gland in organism.
Iron-deficiency anemia. Often, iron deficiency occurs due to hidden bleeding, minor but constant. Often the reasons are heavy menstruation(in particular with uterine fibroids), as well as stomach ulcers or duodenum, tumors of the stomach or intestines. Therefore, it is imperative to look for the cause of anemia.
Symptoms include weakness, fainting, pale skin, drowsiness, hair loss, brittle nails. A blood test for hemoglobin can confirm the presence of anemia.
Chronic infectious or autoimmune diseases, as well as malignant tumors. As a rule, if there is organic cause low-grade fever, increased temperature combined with other characteristic symptoms: pain in different parts of the body, weight loss, lethargy, increased fatigue, sweating. When palpated, an enlarged spleen or lymph nodes may be detected.
Usually, finding out the reasons for the appearance of low-grade fever begins with general and biochemical analysis urine and blood, x-ray of the lungs, ultrasound internal organs. Then, if necessary, more detailed studies are added - for example, blood tests for rheumatoid factor or thyroid hormones. If you have pain unknown origin and especially with sudden weight loss, consultation with an oncologist is necessary.
Post-viral asthenia syndrome. Occurs after suffering from acute respiratory viral infection. Doctors in this case use the term “temperature tail”. A slightly elevated (subfebrile) temperature caused by the consequences of an infection is not accompanied by changes in tests and goes away on its own. But, in order not to confuse asthenia with incomplete recovery, it is better to donate blood and urine for tests and find out whether leukocytes are normal or elevated. If everything is in order, you can calm down, the temperature will jump and jump and eventually “come to its senses.”Presence of outbreak chronic infection(for example, tonsillitis, sinusitis, inflammation of the appendages and even caries). In practice, this cause of elevated temperature is rare, but if there is a source of infection, it must be treated. After all, it poisons the entire body.
Thermoneurosis. Doctors consider this condition as a manifestation of the syndrome vegetative-vascular dystonia. Along with low-grade fever, there may be a feeling of lack of air, increased fatigue, sweaty limbs, and attacks of causeless fear. And although this is not a disease in pure form, but still not the norm.
Therefore, this condition must be treated. To normalize tone peripheral vessels, neurologists recommend massage and acupuncture. A clear daily routine, adequate sleep, walks in the fresh air, regular exercise, and sports (especially swimming) are helpful. Psychotherapeutic treatment often produces a lasting positive effect.
When your health worsens, you start to shiver, the thermometer shows 38C or 39C, you want to quickly bring down the temperature with a pill. This is a mistake, since lowering the temperature does not mean recovery. Heat is a natural reaction of the body to destroy viruses and pathogenic bacteria and remove harmful substances. There is no need to knock down indicators unnecessarily. In most cases, the body itself, without the use of pills, is able to cope with the disease.
Reasons for rising temperature
This state is a physiological self-defense to rid the body of harmful substances. If health allows, allow the process to develop naturally and provide all possible assistance.
It is useful to drink more clean warm water. Fast for a couple of days so as not to waste energy on digesting food.
The cause of weakness is the penetration of harmful substances into the blood, intoxication. The body is forced to make efforts to remove them and destroy microorganisms. Increase enzyme activity, produce more antibodies to increase blood pressure.
Taking antipyretic drugs to bring down the temperature additionally strains the liver and kidneys. In addition, the body does not remove harmful substances that circulate in the blood and accumulates mucus. It is food for pathogenic microorganisms, rots, and promotes the development of tumors.
Thus, hyperthermia (increased temperature) is one of the therapeutic factors. For example, when acute period ARVI and a healthy body, readings up to 38C last no more than 2-3 days.
The hypothalamus is the part of the brain responsible for thermoregulation. It maintains indicators within acceptable limits, for which it sends signals blood vessels for contraction or expansion, controls sweating.
The temperature is elevated in case of bacterial or viral infections, at inflammatory process, after operation. The body produces special substances (for example, interferons), under the influence of which the hypothalamus begins to count normal indicator 38C. Fever, chills until the blood heats up to a new value.
Tablets that bring down the temperature block this action.
Temperature 37, 38, 39C
Low-grade fever. At values of 37-38C, the body's defenses are increased, they reduce the activity of bacteria and viruses. Therefore, shoot down given temperature It’s not worth it, especially if you feel satisfactory. Children are more sensitive and may need to take antipyretic tablets.
Febrile. Moderately high readings from 38C to 39C.
High. Values range from 39 to 40C.
Very high. Above 40C.
High and very high readings are usually not beneficial to the body, causing disturbances in tissues and organ function. But everything is individual.
During illness, it is enough to measure the indicators in the morning after waking up and shortly before going to bed. They are important for making a correct diagnosis and adjusting treatment.
Signs of fever in children and adults: headache, fatigue, trembling, pain in different parts of the body. Breathing and heart rate increase. Reduced amount of urine excreted. Fever is often a symptom of the body's fight against infection.
After the fever is relieved, relief comes copious discharge moisture through sweat and urine.
What is the right temperature
In a healthy adult normal temperature 36.6C or lower. In the morning it can drop to 35.5C, in the evening it can rise to 37.2C. Lowest values recorded between 2-7 o'clock, the highest - from 16 to 21 o'clock.
As a rule, men's temperature is 0.5-0.7 C lower than women's. In boys, indicators stabilize at 18 years old, in girls - at 13-14 years old.
In the absence of diseases, the temperature is increased during the digestion of food (up to 1C), in women - after ovulation due to an increase in the level of the hormone progesterone, these values maintain until menstruation.
For long-distance runners, values can reach 40.5C at the finish line. The body produces a lot of heat, which does not have time to be removed from the body.
Should I lower the temperature?
The body counteracts the disease with the help of immunity. The action of protective forces is manifested, among other things, by pain, elevated temperature and pressure.
It turns out that treatment with tablets that reduce febrile or low-grade fever, directed against the action of immunity.
Some experts are convinced that once a year it is necessary to raise the temperature to 39C. At these rates, mutant cells, the sources of all kinds of tumors, die. Despite the discomfort, this measure enhances antitumor (cellular) immunity.
In addition, if you do not lower the temperature to 38-39C, the body will produce antibodies, a kind of vaccination against the disease.
Seasoned people rarely get sick. Their temperature practically does not rise due to increased anti-inflammatory (humoral) immunity. But the antitumor immunity of a seasoned person remains at the same level.
This leads to a paradoxical conclusion:
- If there is no need to bring down the temperature, then immunity is low.
- If you have to “fever,” then your immunity is at a fairly high level.
The body raises the temperature to destroy specific microorganisms: at 37C some die, at 38C others die.
Raising the temperature by one degree doubles the speed of movement of leukocytes to the causative agent of the disease, which promotes recovery. Tablets that bring down the temperature slow down this process.
Many adults, feeling unwell in the morning, go to the doctor. But a reading of 38C cannot harm a healthy adult. This is a natural reaction of the body when acute diseases similar to the flu.
Therefore, you should not lower your temperature to 38C and take antipyretic pills. Moreover, you should not worry when this “treatment” is unsuccessful and does not reduce your performance.
Often, for a speedy recovery, it is better not to lower, but to raise the temperature to 39C, so that it goes away on its own in a day or two. It has been experimentally established that cells of the immune system destroy bacteria more effectively at 39.5C.
It is worth paying serious attention and informing your doctor about an increase in temperature if you have a weakened immune system, the elderly, after chemotherapy treatment, or in the case of leukemia. Do the same if the newborn has a high fever in the first month.
How long does the temperature last
As a rule, the higher the indicators, the less they last. For example, a temperature of 38.5C will drop after three days, but 37.7C will last a week.
If an adult or child's temperature rises to 39C and goes away after a short time, this is a sign healthy body and strong immunity.
If readings of 37C remain for a long time - a week or more - the body does not cope well with the disease, and the immune system is weakened.
If possible, you should tolerate elevated temperatures, taking into account individual characteristics. Often healthy child does not notice 39C indicators, plays and moves because this reaction the body is natural for him.
How to bring down a child's temperature
Children tolerate increased temperature differently. Some people lose consciousness at 37.5C, others play at 39C. Therefore, the values at which measures need to be taken are determined individually.
To reduce the temperature, create conditions for cooling the body. Maintain +16..+18C in the room. Dress the child warmly so that there is no spasm of the blood vessels in the skin and through them there is a release of heat and the formation of sweat.
Do not wipe the skin of small children with vinegar or rub alcohol tinctures - these substances are absorbed into the blood. It is better to add a few drops to cool water essential oil bergamot, place a cold compress on the child’s calves for 15 minutes.
Drinking plenty of fluids, raisin decoction, and dried fruit compote are beneficial. Fruit drinks, teas and herbal infusions, heated no higher than 40C. Children under one year old should not be given raspberries. Avoid fresh grapes and their juice.
To bring down the temperature, older children should rub their body and thighs with vodka.
It is dangerous to lower a child’s temperature with aspirin and other salicylates. Aspirin under the age of 12 can trigger the development of the disease - Reye's syndrome.
Reducing the temperature does not affect recovery. Moreover, there is still no explanation for the mechanism that does not allow the temperature to rise above 41C.
If your child has a temperature of 37C, there is no need to worry. Studies have established that in healthy children the indicators are in the range of 35.9–37.5C. In the afternoon or evening it may rise by a degree, which is normal. The temperature is raised by taking antihistamines and digesting heavy heavy meals.
Dangerous loss of consciousness as a result heatstroke in the sun, after visiting the sauna, as a result. These effects suppress defense mechanism, which does not allow the temperature to rise to dangerous levels while the child is conscious.
Excessive wrapping increases the temperature. Especially Small child unable to get rid of excess clothing on their own. It is advisable that the child wear as much clothing as adults.
Some experts believe that you should not bring down the temperature to 40.5C for one or two days if there is no vomiting, breathing is not difficult, and the child is active. Elevated readings signal that the child’s body’s healing system is working.
Consult a doctor if the child is lethargic, confused, twitching, or other uncharacteristic behavior.
How to reduce fever without medications
Traditional medicine recipes are used at home.
Vinegar:
- rub chest front and back with vinegar, diluted with the same amount of water.
Vodka:
- Mix equal parts vodka and water.
Perform rubbing up to three times a day. The alcohol evaporates and gives a quick effect, so do not cover yourself with a blanket after the procedure.
Lemon:
- Take a warm glass often boiled water where to squeeze the juice of one.
Cranberry.
- Take juice diluted with water.
- Mash fresh berries with a wooden spoon to obtain juice.
- Boil the juices, strain, and let cool.
- Mix juice and decoction, add honey.
Take cranberry juice to reduce fever.
Raspberries:
- Brew 20g of raspberry leaves or berries, 2 tsp. tea 500 ml boiling water, leave for 15 minutes.
- Pour into a cup, add 2 tbsp. vodka.
Drink tea, wrap yourself up well and sweat. Repeat up to three times a day.
Rose hip:
- Mix 3 parts of fruit infusion and 1 part.
Moisten the napkins and place them on the calves, cover. Moisten the wipes as they dry. After 2 hours, wipe the body.
Raisin:
- Soak 25 raisins in half a cup of water.
- Crush the berries in water, strain, and discard the peel.
- Add 0.5 tsp. lemon juice.
Take a fever reducer twice a day.
Cucumber.
- To bring down a high fever, drink a glass of cucumber juice.
- Wipe your body with juice and immediately go to bed.
Chicory. A simple way to reduce temperature and get rid of harmful substances:
- Grind, add 1 tsp. in a glass of apricot juice, 1 tsp. honey
Ginger:
- Brew the root, add.
A healthy drink reduces symptoms, has a diaphoretic effect, and cools the body.
Dandelion:
- The juice of the plant has a diaphoretic, temperature-reducing effect on colds.
Burdock:
- Cover the body with fresh leaves at high temperature.
Red Ribes:
- The juice has a diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic effect, and helps restore strength.
Contraindicated in case of reduced blood clotting, peptic ulcer stomach and duodenum, acute gastritis and hepatitis.
Copper:
- To bring down the temperature, secure copper coins on your forehead with an adhesive plaster for 2-3 hours.
2, 3 and 5 kopeck coins issued before 1962 are suitable. Heat the coins, let them cool, and clean them with sandpaper. Or place for one hour in a glass with a table solution (25 g per 250 ml), dry.
Copper reduces headaches, soothes, stops bleeding, increases immunity, relieves swelling, has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, and normalizes sleep.
"Dead Water". A glass of “dead” (acidic) water helps to quickly, in 10 minutes, bring down the temperature of an adult and a child. Ask your pharmacy for household activators of living and dead water.
Ice water.
- Full immersion (with your head) in an ice bath for 5 seconds brings down the temperature after 10-15 minutes.
After the procedure, wipe your body dry and immediately go to bed.
- Soak your feet in a bowl of ice water for 5 minutes.
- Do not wipe your feet, wear knitted wool socks made of natural wool.
- Walk continuously around the apartment for 20 minutes.
- Go to bed immediately.
Tablets that bring down the temperature
Modern medications relieve symptoms - reduce fever, reduce headaches, but do not eliminate the causes of the disease.
When taking two drugs simultaneously, the risk of unpredictable effects is 10%, three - up to 50%, more than five - 90%. Therefore, treatment should be distinguished by the quality, not the quantity, of the drugs used.
The drugs Paracetomol (Panadol, Children's Panadol, Efferalgan) and Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Ibufen) are the safest, have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.
Drugs acetyl salicylic acid(Aspirin, Bufferin, Novandol, Novasan, Novandol, Terapin) should not be taken by children under 12 years of age due to the risk of Ray's syndrome.
It is worth lowering the temperature only if it has become unbearable. High rates are important for the immune system to successfully fight the disease.
Sweating occurs within an hour after taking the tablet, which cools the body. Afterwards it may start to shiver again. After consulting with your doctor, adhere to the regimen of taking antipyretics - for example, every 4 hours.
Call a doctor if the temperature is 39.5C or higher. 41C readings affect brain functions and cause seizures. At 42C-42.2C, irreversible changes in the brain occur.
In healthy adults, the temperature sometimes rises above 41C - during a heart attack, stroke, or inflammation of the brain. This usually does not happen with the flu and other common illnesses.
Modified: 06/27/2019A temperature of 39 degrees Celsius is called in medical science and practice febrile(febrile). Over 39 degrees is already a temperature pyretic(or high). In both cases we are talking about pathological condition requiring immediate correction.
Such high thermometer readings indicate an ongoing pathogenic process of a certain nature. What should you know about the rise in temperature to such significant levels, should it be brought down, in what cases and how to bring down the temperature 39? We need to look into this in more detail.
Febrile readings on the thermometer, as already mentioned, are due to the development of the pathological process.
It can be of two types:
- Infectious, caused by pathological pathogenic agents.
- Vegetative, caused by disorders of the nervous system.
If we talk about the immediate causes of hyperthermia (increase in temperature) to the level of febrility, there are a great many of them. Among the most common diseases:
Meningitis
It is an inflammation of the membranes of the brain. It develops rapidly with the formation of persistent hyperthermia (body temperature rises to ).
This is a fairly rare disease these days. According to statistics, every 20,000 inhabitants of the planet had to deal with it.
The danger of meningitis lies, firstly, in the risk of developing shock due to high temperatures, and secondly, in the likelihood of the formation of focal neurological symptoms (including behavioral disorders, intellect, etc.).
Febrile schizophrenia
It is extremely rare in the practice of psychiatrists.
This is practically casuistry (isolated cases), but it is precisely this form mental disorder poses the greatest danger to patients with mental illness.
The disease begins with the formation of persistent convulsions, catatonic syndrome. Dyskinesia develops later. Possible death.
Hypothalamic syndrome
The hypothalamus is a special brain structure involved in thermoregulation of the body.
It is thanks to this organ that a person is able to tolerate temperature changes. However, in some cases, the hypothalamus begins to function not as it should.
This may be due to the so-called hypothalamic syndrome. This is an endocrine disease that occurs quite often.
The numbers on the thermometer can reach significant levels, even above 39 degrees.
Tumors of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus
In the first case, compression of the organ occurs and its functions are disrupted; in the second, an invasively growing formation destroys the nuclei of the hypothalamus, leading to persistent hyperthermia.
Thyroid disorders
The thyroid gland is, in a way, the cauldron of the body. If a lot of specific hormones are produced, this leads to a persistent increase in body temperature.
What could be causing this? Thyrotoxicosis, goiter, Hashimoto's thyroiditis ( autoimmune disease when the body mistakes its own thyroid cells for dangerous invaders and initiates a defensive reaction).
Acute laryngitis, tracheitis, pharyngitis
Inflammation of the upper respiratory tract caused by infectious pathogens, especially Staphylococcus aureus often lead to an increase in body temperature to significant levels.
Pneumonia
It's dangerous and serious disease, often leading to fatal outcome due to respiratory failure. You can read more about pneumonia.
Flu, severe ARVI
In the second case, we are talking about a general diagnosis, including both influenza and other infectious diseases viral origin. A disease familiar to everyone from childhood can cause significant hyperthermia.
More rare causes include:
- Diseases childhood, carried into adulthood. In adults it is severe. This includes chicken pox, measles, rubella, etc.
- Oncopathology. As a rule, at stages 2-3 we can talk about minor fluctuations in numbers in the range , but if many metastases form, a febrile and even pyretic temperature is formed without fail. This is caused by poisoning of the body with decay products or direct damage to the hypothalamus.
- Rheumatism. A disease that occurs with an increase in temperature. It occurs in people of any age and gender.
- Infections of the genitourinary system. Urethritis, cystitis, pyelonephritis, nephritis, glomerulonephritis. And it's not full list. We are talking about forms of the disease that are severe. In all other cases, symptoms may be completely absent.
Taking certain medications
First of all, neuroleptics. Antipsychotics often cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which occurs with febrile fever.
- Tuberculosis.
- Heat/sunstroke.
- Significant dehydration.
- Blood poisoning.
- Other infectious diseases (dysentery, cholera, etc.).
As you can judge, the list of reasons is long. It is possible to understand the initial factors of hyperthermia only based on the results of diagnostic measures.
Symptoms of hyperthermia
Symptoms of high body temperature are, in general, very characteristic. The clinical picture is dominated by manifestations of general intoxication of the body, among them:
- Headache. Pressing, discomfort in the forehead area predominates.
- Feeling of being pressed to the ground. A characteristic feature is precisely temperatures above 39 degrees.
- Weakness, feeling of “cottoniness” of the body.
- Brokenness.
- Fast fatiguability.
Symptoms such as nausea and vomiting are possible (depending on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body).
Associated symptoms and differential diagnosis
Usually these symptoms are not limited to.
The clinical picture also includes other manifestations that enable the doctor and the patient to carry out differential diagnosis and distinguish one disease from another.
What could be the accompanying manifestations and what do they mean:
- Mental disorders, muscle rigidity, changes in the emotional-volitional background, restlessness. These are direct indications of either neuroleptic malignant syndrome or febrile schizophrenia. It is sometimes difficult to differentiate between them.
- Intense headache, which does not go away even with special medications, frequent mood swings, intellectual impairment. Such symptoms may suggest meningitis.
- Feeling hot, sweating, bulging eyes(exophthalmos), changes in the texture of the neck, sexual dysfunction - thyrotoxicosis. Problems with the thyroid gland.
- Sore throat, sore throat, minor breathing problems - infection of the upper respiratory tract.
- Chest pain, whistling and wheezing when breathing - pneumonia.
- A history of an established cancer diagnosis. If in the background malignant tumor the temperature rises significantly - this is an unfavorable prognostic sign.
- Joint pain, heart pain, joint swelling - rheumatoid arthritis or rheumatism.
- Frequent urination, pain and stinging during bowel movements Bladder, lower back pain - pathologies of the genitourinary system.
- Impaired consciousness, lack of salivation, the onset of symptoms after prolonged exposure to the sun or significant heat - dehydration or heat/sunstroke.
- Intense vomiting, diarrhea, tenesmus ( false urges to defecation) speak in favor of dysentery.
Despite enough characteristic symptoms, it is not recommended to carry out differential diagnosis on your own.
The above clinical signs are given for convenience in order to know in time which specialist to contact.
Diagnosis of the primary source of pathology
It is not the temperature that needs to be diagnosed, but the initial factor that caused hyperthermia.
Diagnostics begins with choosing a specialized specialist. IN in this case An initial consultation with a therapist is recommended.
He will help you decide on examination tactics and give you the necessary directions.
There are a great many specialists who help get rid of fever:
- Nephrologist (for kidney pathologies).
- Neurologist.
- Neurosurgeon (in tandem with a neurologist treats pathologies of the central nervous system that cause a rise in body temperature).
- Infectious disease specialist.
- Rheumatologist.
- Oncologist, etc.
It is extremely difficult to independently understand the huge number of specialists.
Diagnostics includes both a number of instrumental and a number of laboratory studies:
- Ultrasound (thyroid gland, abdominal cavity, genitourinary system).
- Psychiatric research using special tests.
- X-ray (lungs, other organs).
- Visual assessment of organs (for ENT pathologies, etc.).
- Contrast radiography of the genitourinary system.
- Fluorography.
- MRI/CT examinations. Allows you to obtain detailed images of the organs and structures being examined. These methods play a huge role in identifying organic brain lesions.
Laboratory methods are no less informative:
- Complete blood count: gives a picture of inflammation (leukocytosis, high speed erythrocyte sedimentation).
- Biochemistry of blood.
- Bacterial cultures.
In the complex of these methods it is enough to set accurate diagnosis and prescribing the right treatment.
Is it worth lowering the temperature to 39 and above?
In most cases, the temperature cannot be brought down below 38.5! This is a natural protective reaction of the body to a foreign agent.
However, if we are talking about vegetative causes of febrility, it is necessary to combat hyperthermia, no matter how insignificant it may be.
Experts are unanimous in their opinion:
With such a high degree of hyperthermia, changes in the cardiopulmonary system and convulsions begin.
Cardiovascular, like respiratory system are not able to withstand such a significant load.
The development of serious complications is possible, which is why lowering the temperature is not only possible, but also necessary.
Moreover, this should be done starting from the numbers 38.6 and above.
Complications of febrile and pyretic body temperature
The formidable complications were discussed above. What are we talking about?
- Lung disorders. Shortness of breath, suffocation.
- Changes in consciousness, confusion.
- Stiffness of the neck, swallowing and breathing muscles.
- Coma.
- Cramps.
Some of these complications are quite capable of leading to death, so bringing down a high temperature is vital.
How to bring down a temperature of 39 at home
There are two groups of ways to eliminate an increase in body temperature. Medicines and folk remedies.
Each of these methods is used depending on the causes of subfibritis and has a number of advantages and disadvantages.
In some cases, a combination of both treatment methods is possible.
Medication methods
In order to bring down a fever of 39 at home, there are special groups of drugs. All medicines, one way or another, contain one of the following active ingredients:
- Acetylsalicylic acid.
- Paracetamol.
- Ibuprofen.
- Methyzamol sodium.
Features of the use of medications
Preparations based on ibuprofen have a rapid effect and are characterized by a small amount side effects, so they are great for bringing down the temperature in both adults and children.
Trade names: Nurofen, Ibuprofen, Novigan.
Directions for use: up to four times a day, depending on effectiveness.
The maximum single dosage should not be higher than 400 mg. These medications, in addition to their main purpose, perfectly relieve pain and inflammation.
Preparations based on paracetamol are also effective at fever, but have a hepatotoxic effect(have a negative effect on liver function), therefore they should not be used uncontrollably and in large dosages.
In addition, paracetamol often causes allergies.
Trade names: Paracetamol, Ibuklin, Coldrex, Rinza, Theraflu, Coldact, Efferalgan, Panoxen. Method of administration: up to four times a day if necessary (4 tablets per day maximum).
Medicines based on acetylsalicylic acid are considered extremely dangerous to take, since they negatively affect the functioning of the heart, digestive tract, and lungs. However, despite all the dangers, they are effective.
Trade names: Aspirin, Citramon, Citropak, Askofen. It must be taken according to the instructions: up to three times a day (2-4 tablets per day), until a lasting effect is achieved.
Preparations based on "sodium methizamol" They have a weak antipyretic effect, but cope well with pain and inflammation, so at elevated temperatures they should be taken in combination with the above pharmaceuticals.
This includes: Baralgin, Analgin, Revalgin etc. It is not recommended to treat them on your own: the risk of developing allergic reactions is high, in addition, such drugs help thin the blood and increase the fragility of blood vessels.
Taking these medications allows you to quickly bring down a temperature of 39-39.5 in an adult, since these medications are equally effective for any number.
It is important to adhere to the correct dosage. It is best not to self-medicate and consult a doctor.
Folk remedies
Traditional methods of treatment also cope well with elevated temperatures. There are at least ten effective recipes which you can prepare yourself at home.
Strawberry
Represents not only useful, but also pleasant remedy on temperature. In order to bring down the temperature of 39 in an adult, it is advisable to take 50 grams of berries immediately after a meal or eat two tablespoons of jam.
Chamomile infusion
Dry crushed pharmaceutical chamomile is used as raw material. A teaspoon of raw material should be poured with a glass of boiling water.
Leave to infuse for 30 minutes, then judge and strain. Take the resulting product 6-7 tablespoons every half hour.
Remedy made from pureed viburnum
Rub the viburnum berries with sugar and leave to steep in the jar for several days. Take a tablespoon of the resulting raw material and pour it with a glass of hot water.
The product should infuse for 15 minutes, after which it must be strained. Use as tea.
Puree currant remedy
It is prepared in the same way as the previous product. With the only exception that you need to insist on it for 20-25 minutes. Take as tea.
Raspberries
Raspberries, namely, are perhaps the most famous remedy for fever. This is the most affordable method of treatment. It is enough to take 2-3 tablespoons with tea and wrap yourself in a warm blanket to sweat. This will solve the temperature problem.
Vinegar
Regular vinegar can become in a great way beat the heat. In a 1:2 combination, a weak solution is mixed with water (to avoid chemical burns, take 1 part vinegar and 2 parts water). Then the resulting product is rubbed onto the patient’s body. This is an effective recipe.
Dried fruits
A decoction of their dried fruits allows you to quickly cope with hyperthermia. To prepare the decoction, you need to take a handful of raw materials, pour half a liter of boiling water over it, and leave for 30 minutes. Take a glass 3 times a day.
Linden blossom
To bring down the temperature, linden blossom tea is suitable. Take a handful of linden flowers. Pour half a liter of boiling water over them. Strain. Add a tablespoon of honey. Leave for 30 minutes, then take a glass three times a day.
Cranberry
It works due to the content of a large amount of salicylic acid. To prepare, take a tablespoon of berries and pour a glass of boiling water over them. Leave for 30 minutes, then strain. Take 3 tablespoons 3 times a day. Can be consumed in larger quantities as tea.
Pearl barley decoction
To prepare, take 100 grams of pearl barley, fill it with water (a liter) and boil for 20 minutes. You can add honey. Take half a glass of the decoction three times a day.
All of these recipes are safe. However, if after taking folk remedies, you should definitely call an ambulance.
What to drink when you have a high temperature?
You only need to drink clean water, as much as possible. It is acceptable to consume cranberry and other fruit drinks. Decoctions of dried fruits.
Thus, the answer to the question of how to bring down a temperature of 39-39.5 in an adult requires several answers at once: medicinal and folk remedies will help in this difficult matter.
Temperatures can rise to the highest various reasons. In any case, this is an extremely dangerous condition that requires correction.
You can quickly and effectively bring down the temperature with the help of medicines and folk remedies.
I have a temperature. When and how to reduce the degree
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