The fever that arises is often worrying, so many choose to immediately take fever-reducing drugs. In fact, it is not uncommon for people to measure body temperature using inappropriate measuring instruments. Besides, fever-reducing medicine should also be taken according to the right medical needs and indications.
Fever often appears together with other symptoms, such as nausea, cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, joint pain, fever, and others. However, do not immediately think of fever as an enemy and rush to treat it. In fact, most fevers have benefits and help the body fight infection.
Fever Criteria
Fever is a sign that the immune system is working against a viral, bacterial, fungal, or other foreign substance that enters the body. The reason for treating a fever is just to relieve discomfort. The cause of fever itself is very diverse, depending on the condition of each patient.
Everyone's normal body temperature is different. But in general, body temperature is said to be above normal when it reaches 37 degrees Celsius through mouth measurements, or 37.2 degrees Celsius when measured through the anus. Mild fever is when the body temperature has not reached 38 degrees Celsius. At this time, fever does not need to be treated because it is considered the body's natural effort to ward off viral and bacterial infections that cannot live in hot temperatures.
Fever of more than 38 degrees Celsius requires treatment. A fever that reaches 40 degrees Celsius or higher, can be considered a dangerous condition and requires immediate medical attention. Fever above 40 degrees Celsius is at risk of causing impaired brain function and seizures, especially in infants and children.
Use of Fever Reducing Medication right
When you have a fever, it is advisable to wear light clothing. Avoid thick and layered clothing, as they can trigger a temperature rise. Wash the body with warm water to help reduce fever, avoid cold water, ice water, or alcohol. In addition, avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as these types of drinks can trigger dehydration. Drink plenty of water when you have a fever.
Here are some options for fever-reducing drugs that can be used:
- Paracetamol
This drug can be used as a fever reducer, as well as relieve other symptoms such as headaches, toothaches, backaches, and other pains. Generally, paracetamol is sold over the counter, either in the form of tablets, syrup, or others.
See package label for dosage. Do not use adult paracetamol for children.
We recommend that you use this drug for no more than 3 days without consulting a doctor.
- Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen should be taken as directed by a doctor, and generally every 4-6 hours.
- AspirinAspirin can be used to help reduce fever and mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothaches, muscle aches, colds, and arthritis. The use of low-dose aspirin can also be used to prevent blood clots (usually occurring after surgical procedures), which can reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack. The use of aspirin in children under 12 years should always consult a doctor.
Please be careful for people who have a fever and at the same time are taking immunosuppressant drugs (drugs that suppress the immune system), suffer from cancer, AIDS, diabetes, heart disease, and other serious illnesses. If the fever is accompanied by the above conditions, immediately consult a doctor.
Use fever-reducing drugs when the body temperature reaches 38 degrees Celsius or more. If the fever does not go down or lasts for a long time, consult a doctor immediately.