Temperature too high?

If there is a way then there must also be an Easy Way

Temperature too high?

Fever otherwise known as a rise in your body temperature is a sign that something is wrong. Normal body temperature is 37 degrees Celsius (98.6F). It is your bodies way of dealing with illness, as it fights infection.

I will list some general tips followed by some herbal remedies. The advice is general and should not be taken as a treatment, you must consult your doctor if you are at all concerned about yours or another's health.

Taking a temperature

The most convenient way of taking your, or another persons temperature is by mouth, by placing a mercury or digital thermometer under the tongue. Alternatively it can be placed in the armpit. Don't use the tongue method for a young child or a confused patient. They may bite the end off the thermometer by mistake. Take the temperature under the arm instead. The normal reading for under the arm will be about 0.6C lower than a reading taken orally.

Before taking a temperature make sure that the person is relaxed, 20 minutes after a meal, hot drink or bath. Don't take a temperature after exercise it can lead to an inaccurate reading.

If you are in any doubt Contact your doctor straight away

Reducing a temperature
For slight temperature, the doctor may advise taking paracetamol or aspirin several times a day to bring the fever down. Children should only be given junior paracetamol, adult Paracetamol is too strong an aspirin can be dangerous. Always read the instructions on any medication.

Never give children or pregnant women aspirin

Drinking a lot of fluid can help to bring down a fever because it replaces the fluids lost during sweating as a result of having an increased temperature.

If a person has a high fever you must seek medical advice, you can releive the discomfort by sponging the forehead with a sponge soaked in tepid water. Never use cold water as it causes the blood vessels to on the surface of the skin to contract and therefore retain heat. Tepid water helps them to dilate and loose heat.

If someone has a very high temperature and you have already consulted your doctor, you can help them by taking their clothes off and covering them with a sheet, preferably cotton because it is cooling and absorbent. Do not let the person get too cold as they could catch a chill.

Herbal remedy for reducing a temperature

Drink yarrow tea, apple cider vinegar and honey, marigold flower tea or borage tea made with fresh young leaves, stems and flowers

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Last update 25th Sept 2006