SIMPLE HOME REMEDIES TO COMBAT COMMON MILD FEVER

Fever refers to a temporary increase in body temperature due to an underlying illness. Having a fever is an indication that something unusual is happening within the body, and the body’s natural defense mechanisms are trying to ward it off.
In adults, fever can be uncomfortable but is most likely not something to be concerned about till it is below 39.4C (103F). On the other hand, in the case of infants and toddlers, even a slight increase in temperature could be an indication of any serious infection.
Short-term fever normally helps our body to fight off infections/illnesses. But a severe, long-term rise in temperature can be a symptom of a serious condition that might need immediate medical attention.
The most common cause of fever is an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Other causes of fever include reactions to certain vaccines or drugs, certain and cancers, and inflammatory conditions. Other than a temperature rise, symptoms of fever include:

• Chills
• Headache
• Sweating
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Sometimes, a very high fever can also cause convulsions known as febrile seizures, most common amongst children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years.
Symptoms of febrile seizures include eye-rolling, twitching, loss of consciousness, and stiffness in the arms or legs. Usually, these seizures tend to last only for a few minutes and do not pose any serious health problem. But, a child who has had them in the past is more likely to have febrile seizures again.
In the case of a high fever, one must always seek immediate medical attention. However, if one is suffering from mild fever, some common home remedies and natural treatments are known to aid in mitigating and managing its symptoms. They include:

• Consuming lots of fluids & staying hydrated.
• Taking proper rest and maintaining good personal hygiene.
• Taking a lukewarm/tepid bath.
• Dressing lightly (Wearing too many layers can trap heat against the body, raising body temperature further).
• Drinking water boiled with Tulsi (Holy Basil) and Adrak (Ginger) concoction.
• Drinking Lehsun (Garlic) infused water.
• Consuming honey mixed with ginger juice and lemon juice in equal proportions.
• Drinking cinnamon (dalchini) tea.

A word of caution:
Generally, above mentioned traditional remedies are considered safe and are known to aid in reducing fever. However, in some patients, these remedies may aggravate the condition, and thus, it is strongly advised to seek the guidance of a health expert for proper diagnosis.