$Unique_ID{BRK01179}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Do Higher Body Temperatures Have a Role in Fighting Infection?}
$Subject{fever infection defense infections metabolism temperatures
temperature bacteria fevers reye reye's syndrome acetaminophen bacterial
bacterium metabolic immune system immunity}
$Volume{A-0,C-0,U-0}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Do Higher Body Temperatures Have a Role in Fighting Infection?


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  When I called my doctor recently to ask for help with a high fever
during a bout with a serious throat infection, he told me that the high
temperatures were helping me fight the infection.  I always thought a high
fever was bad for you, so I don't understand what he was trying to tell me.
Have you any information that can explain his comment?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  The normal body temperature is considered to be 98.8 degrees
Fahrenheit (37 degrees Centigrade).  When it exceeds 100 F (37.8 C) orally or
100.8 F (38.2) rectal, it is considered to be a "fever".  This elevation can
be caused by many illnesses, but when there is an infection attacking the
body, the higher temperatures do indeed have a role in fighting the invading
bacteria.  Bacteria thrive best at the normal body temperature, and they are
slowed down by higher levels.  The higher the temperature, or more pronounced
the fever is, the more vulnerable the bacteria become.  That makes it easier
for the body's own defenses, such as the protecting white blood cells, which
literally eat up the bacteria to reduce the spread of the infection and
eradicate the foreign bacteria.  Unless the fever becomes uncomfortably high
or provokes a convulsion, it can be allowed to run its course.  Fevers are
generally higher in the afternoon or early evening and are higher and more
frequent in children than adults.  As you get older, the body reaction to
infection is lessened and the level of the temperatures are also reduced.
There are a few things you can do to make a fever more tolerable.  Drink
plenty of liquids when a fever is present.  Bathing in a tub of warm water is
helpful, and it is unnecessary to subject yourself to the uncomfortable
experience of a cold or lukewarm sponge bath.  When considering children or
teenagers and infections, particularly those caused by viruses (such as
chickenpox or flu) aspirin is a no-no as it can lead to a serious condition
known as Reye's Syndrome.  Acetaminophen, in tablet or liquid form, is
preferred.  Dress in light, loose fitting sleepwear, and allow the evaporation
of perspiration to help make you more comfortable.  Usually when intense
sweating develops, the infection is just about conquered, and you are on the
road to rapid recovery.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.