Fever Phobia

Here’s a link to an interesting article on the pathophysiology, and more importantly, the significance of febrile illnesses.

Science-Based Medicine – Fever Phobia

Many people are terrified of fever, especially in children, with no real justification.  The key takeaways are that you should only worry about elevated temperatures if your patient

• Has a neurological malformation of the hypothalamaus; or
• Has suffered environmental hypothermia; or
• Is taking certain uncommon medications which can inhibit temperature regulation

For everyone else, relax!  Fever is a normal part of the healing process. There is no need to interfere in this natural process unless the patient is unreasonably pained or uncomfortable.

 

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