Fever

Fever, medically referred to as pyrexia, is an elevation in body temperature above the normal range, typically greater than 37.5–38.3 degrees Celsius (99.5–100.9 degrees Fahrenheit). It is a common clinical sign that is part of the body's natural immune response to infection or illness. The hypothalamus in the brain acts as the body's thermostat, and in the presence of pathogenic invaders like bacteria or viruses, or in response to inflammatory cytokines from other causes, it resets to a higher temperature. This increase in setpoint leads to various physiological responses aimed at raising the body's temperature, such as shivering and vasoconstriction, and is often accompanied by symptoms like sweating, feeling cold, and muscle aches.

The purpose of fever is multifaceted; it helps to inhibit the growth of certain pathogens and enhances the efficacy of the immune response. Fever can be beneficial to some extent, as it signals the activation of the body's defense mechanisms. However, when excessively high or prolonged, it may become detrimental and require medical attention. Caregivers often use antipyretics, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to reduce fever and provide relief. It's important to identify and treat the underlying cause of the fever, rather than just suppressing the symptom.