Home Remedies:  Riding Out a Fever

Fevers can accompany infections, the flu and even allergic reactions.  They may cause profuse sweating, or make you file like you're on fire one minute and shaking with chills the next minute.

What is a normal temperature?

Common wisdom is that a normal temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.  Each person's normal temperature may be a bit different, ranging from 96.9 degreed Fahrenheit to 99.00 degrees Fahrenheit.  Your temperature may vary by more than two degrees throughout the day, with the lowest reading occurring in the early morning and the highest in the evening.

What to do for a fever

1. Ride it Out - Running a fever might be doing your body good because it might be your body' s way of mobilizing itself against invading organisms.  Some doctors believe that fevers may enhance the immune response.
2. Let Your Body Dictate What You Wear - If you have the chills, bundle up until you're comfortable.  If you're sweating and feeling hot, shed some clothing. 
3. Avoid Burying Yourself - Unless you have the chills, burying yourself under loads of blankets will only make you uncomfortable. 
4. Sponge Yourself - Use tepid, not freezing cold, water to sponge yourself and cool down.
5. Sip Liquids - If your fever is accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, you might suffer fluid loss and an electrolyte imbalance.  Stay well hydrated but sip, instead of gulp, to avoid further nausea.  Avoid alcohol, since it will only cause more dehydration.
6. If You're Not Hungry, Don't Eat.  Your body is trying to tell you something.  Don't force food down if you're not hungry.  However, continue to sip liquids.