A high temperature without symptoms in an adult does not always signal the course of a cold. If it lasts for a long time, a person needs to undergo a comprehensive examination.

Fever is a sign of disease in any case, even if there are no typical visible signs

general information

The mechanisms responsible for maintaining a certain temperature range ensure the smooth operation of all functions of the human body. They also regulate the rate of heat exchange. Thermoreceptors located on the skin monitor information about the external temperature. The control of internal indicators is carried out by central thermoreceptive neurons. If the setting mode is violated, then the response to the corresponding signals are specific reactions aimed at resuscitation of adequate indicators. This is done through the endocrine and somatic systems.

Note! There is no single definition of the temperature norm. In many healthy adults, it varies from 36 to 37.5 degrees.

The nature of the temperature

In an adult, an increase in temperature is a consequence of the production of pyrogens. Some of these proteins are present in the body. They can also be components of a microbial cell and come from outside. In order to find out why the temperature rises without symptoms of a cold in an adult, you need to clarify its nature. He might be:

1. Wrong
2. Inverse
3. Recurrent
4. wavy
5. hectic
6. laxative
7. intermittent
8. permanent

The main reasons for the increase

The temperature always rises in the presence of an illness and one should not console oneself that this is a temporary phenomenon, since it is one thing to overheat and cool down in 3-4 hours, and another thing to walk with a fever for 2 days

For the wrong temperature, no patterns are characteristic. It rises with, endocarditis,. With the inverse type, indicators may increase in the morning, and decrease in the evening. This is typical for brucellosis.

If the temperature "jumps" for 1-3 days, then it is called recurrent. The causes of this condition may be related to relapsing fever and malaria.

With a wave-like type, the indicators rise gradually and last for several days. Then the temperature drops and then rises again. This happens with typhoid fever, lymphogranulomatosis.

The hectic type is characterized by a fluctuation of indicators within 2-3 degrees. The next day, she returns to normal on her own. This sign signals that a person has serious purulent foci.

At a relaxing temperature, fluctuations in indicators are 1-1.5 degrees / 24 hours. They do not return to normal on their own. This happens with focal and purulent diseases.

In the intermittent type, the temperature is first high, then normal and low. It could be malaria. A constant temperature is maintained during inflammation of the lungs.

Reasons for the increase to 37 degrees

Indicators may increase against the background of:

• severe fatigue;
• depression;
• emotional "burnout";
• development of a sluggish infection;
• reduction ;
• bearing a fetus.

Sometimes an increase in temperature can be associated with a pre-cold condition. Often this symptom speaks of such serious sexually transmitted pathologies as.

Also, the temperature rises due to the fact that the human defenses are actively fighting the infection.

Reasons for the increase to 38 degrees

A temperature of 38 without symptoms in an adult is observed against the background of:

• alcohol intoxication;
• reactions to vaccination;
• allergies;
• digestive disorder;
• hyperthermia;
• regular severe stress;
• physical fatigue.

If the temperature lasts longer than 72 hours and continues to grow, then the causes may be associated with a heart attack or progression of inflammation in the tissue structures of the cardiovascular system. Sometimes this sign signals that nervous regulation has been disturbed in systems and organs.

If the temperature is 38.5 for several weeks or months, this may signal the growth of a tumor or the course of an endocrine disease. In this case, such non-specific signs may appear, such as a sharp weight loss and constant weakness.

Reasons for the increase to 39 degrees

If the temperature rises to 39 degrees and lasts for a long time, this may indicate the development of a febrile fever. Other reasons for its increase include:

• the course of tumor processes;
• meningococcal infection;
• infective endocarditis;
• catarrhal.

A temperature of 39 is often provoked by a malfunction in the system of the subcortical center of the brain.

Note! This state can last for several years. Sometimes the body adapts to it.

Sometimes this symptom signals inflammation in the renal pelvis system. The temperature can stay for a very long time.

If the readings rise sharply to 40 and rise above, this indicates hectic fever.

When it's not dangerous

The temperature can rise both due to normal natural factors ( overheating, various indicators), and due to the intake of certain types of medications.

Sometimes the answer to the question why the temperature is kept can be quite harmless. An upward change in indicators is observed against the background of:

• overheating;
• emotional or mental overwork;

In people suffering from neuroses, the temperature often “jumps” and normalizes on its own.

The change in indicators is observed in children 11-14 years old. This is especially true for boys. A syndrome appears, defined in medicine as “growth temperature”. The child grows, this process is accompanied by a powerful release of energy. The increased temperature does not affect well-being.

When it's very dangerous

An increase in temperature without symptoms can signal dangerous conditions such as:

• growth of a malignant neoplasm in the liver;
• tumor of the stomach;
• development of lymphosarcoma;
• kidney tumor;
• colon cancer;
• pancreatic tumor.

The activity of tumor cells is accompanied by the release of pyrogenic substances. They provoke the development of fever. The temperature rises to 37-38 degrees. This condition is accompanied by symptoms such as aches all over the body, vague headaches, nausea, and impaired stool.

Increase in indicators when taking drugs

A sudden increase in indicators can be triggered by the use of certain drugs. This is usually observed after five days. The main drug provocateurs include:

1. Cardiovascular drugs.
2. medicines.
3. Iodine drugs.
4. Anti-inflammatory drugs.
5. Antibiotics.

Of the cardiovascular agents, an increase in temperature is caused by Quindine, Alpha methyldol. From anti-inflammatory - Ibuprofen, Tolmetin. Of the antibiotics - Isoniazid, Cephalosporin, Penicillin, Tetracycline.

Other pathologies

The temperature can vary from 37 to 39 degrees due to the development of:

• vasculitis;
• Crohn's disease;
• rheumatic fever;
• Still's disease;
• rheumatoid;
• lupus erythematosus.

This condition is accompanied by aching all over the body. Fever, which accompanies an increased temperature, often indicates a vascular pathology of the legs. Most often, deep veins are diagnosed or.

If temperature indicators increase after an injury, this may indicate the development of pulmonary embolism.

What to do

If the high temperature persists for several days, you should visit your therapist. The doctor undertakes to refer to:

1. X-ray.
2. Blood test.
3. Sputum culture.
4. Analysis of urine.

Advice! You can not thoughtlessly take antipyretics. After getting rid of the symptom, there is a risk that the disease will be launched. This can lead to unpredictable consequences. If the indicators increase very much, then you need to call an ambulance. Depending on the state of health of the patient, a decision on hospitalization may be made.

When to shoot down

If the temperature is 39 and above, then it is urgent to take action, and if it stays at 38 and below, then you should not worry too much, because. these are normal indicators in the presence of a disease and it is NOT recommended to bring down the temperature in this case

The safe threshold for adults, at which the temperature does not go astray, is 38.5 degrees. If it grows, then there is a serious danger to the endocrine and cardiovascular systems. When this state is observed for a long time, a force majeure situation arises. Brain activity suffers. If the fever is very strong, a person may become delirious, he has convulsions. Exacerbation of chronic pathologies is observed.

Note! At 42 degrees in the cerebral cortex, irreversible consequences occur. Against this background, the patient dies. But such cases are quite rare.

What to bring down

If the indicators are growing rapidly, then you can normalize them using:

1. Nurofen.
2. ibuprofen.
3. Paracetamol.

Rheumatoid and rheumatic fever are treated with salicylates, as well as glucocorticoid drugs.

What else can be done

Depending on the source of the temperature increase, additional courses of treatment may be prescribed, the passage of which will ensure a quiet life for a long time.

The elimination of the "temperature tail" in thermoneuroses is eliminated by sparing sedatives. Psychotherapy sessions are scheduled, massage manipulations are carried out. Recovery is facilitated by attending choreographic classes.

Acupuncture brings great benefits to the body. Phytotherapy should be used with caution. This is especially true for those people in whom the increase in performance was caused by an allergic reaction. Some herbal remedies can aggravate the clinical picture.

It is also necessary to establish a sleep and nutrition regimen. You need to sleep at least 8 hours. Spices, salt, alcohol should be excluded from the menu.

Finally

In order for the temperature not to rise unreasonably, it is necessary to be examined regularly. This will help prevent serious health problems.

How to bring down the temperature in an adult. Consequences of elevated temperatures. Dosage of drugs against fever in adults.

Our normal body temperature is around 36.6°C. A significant deviation down or up on the scale of the thermometer not only disrupts the functioning of the body, but can also be hazardous to health.

Increased body temperature (fever)- the physiological reaction of the body, which has a protective and adaptive character.

It is not always necessary to bring down a high temperature. Since the intake of antipyretic substances does not cure the disease, does not shorten its course, but only eliminates its hard-tolerated symptom and facilitates well-being.

It is necessary to take antipyretics at a temperature in adults of 38.5 ° C and above.

What can cause a temperature of 37

With the appearance of apathy, heaviness throughout the body and at a temperature that lasts 37 ° C for a whole week - a pre-inflammatory process

The causes of a temperature of 37 degrees are:

1. Past severe illness
2. Thermoneurosis - failure of thermoregulation during exercise or stress
3. Got an intestinal infection
4. experiences
5. typical fever
6. Hyperthermia
7. Viral infections
8. Malignant formations
9. Autoimmune changes
10. Hyperthyroidism - an excess of thyroid hormones
11. Hormonal imbalance

Temperature 37 does not require antipyretics. Temperature change

In the evening, the temperature is 37, this is normal and there is no need to worry. The temperature readings will return to normal as soon as you have a good rest.

For women, an increase in temperature at 37 speaks of the physiological state and hormones. This temperature can be kept in pregnant women, after childbirth, during breastfeeding, before menstruation.

A change in temperature by one degree is not a cause for concern.

But if the temperature systematically rises only in the evening. Then the reasons could be:

There are times when

The doctor must examine. Only then will the exact reason for the increase in evening temperature become clear.

Why body temperature 36? Causes

We have warm blood. Our temperature is a continuation of metabolism. It is important for body functions to maintain internal temperature so that the organs work without deviations.

The brain is the control center for body temperature. It is known as the hypothalamus, which warns of extreme cold or hot conditions. The hypothalamus causes it to decrease or open up blood flow to the outer layers of the skin. This regulates normal body temperature.

Every process that takes place inside our body requires energy. The body lacks energy, as a result, the work of the body components changes. So, if the brain receives little energy, thought processes, such as memory and focus, deteriorate.

The body needs energy, so the body finds ways to keep itself warm.

In deep sleep, the temperature is 36. The human body systems function perfectly because oxygen is supplied in sufficient quantities.

Different national groups of people consider their temperature to be normal. So the body temperature of the Japanese is 36 degrees, Australians and Americans - 37 degrees.

Gender and age are different. The temperature is finally set in boys at 18 years old, and in girls at 13-14 years old. Men are 0.5-0.7 colder than women.

The lowest temperature in humans is in the morning from 4 to 6 o'clock. The blood cools down in the morning and becomes viscous, syrupy. The more viscous, the more difficult it is for blood to flow through the body and warm it. Sometimes the following symptoms of a decrease in temperature are observed:

The list of symptoms of low temperature is a signal of possible diseases:

• diabetes
• drug addiction and alcoholism
• hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland)
• infectious diseases
• kidney failure
• cirrhosis of the liver
• sepsis
• allergy
• asthma
• stress
• insomnia

Raw foodists have constantly body temperature below 36 degrees. They are sure that lowering the body temperature by at least one degree will make it possible to live twice as long.

Sometimes a change in body temperature indicates

Adults often experience temperature changes without symptoms. This is related to the fact that

It happens that the temperature provokes an additional load on the heart and lungs. In this case, energy consumption increases, as the need for oxygen and nutrition of the body tissues increases. A doctor's consultation is necessary to understand if there are or were signs of:

• hematomas or bruises
• infections
• benign or malignant tumors
• disruption of the endocrine system
• lymphoma or leukemia
• joint diseases
• pyelonephritis
• complication after flu or sore throat
• allergy
• nervousness

How to bring down the temperature in an adult house - 10 ways

Keep cool

It is not safe to warm a person at an elevated temperature with blankets, warm clothes, a heater installed in the room. These measures have every chance of leading to heat stroke if its level rises to a dangerous value.

Dress the patient lightly so that unnecessary heat leaves freely and maintain the temperature in the room at 20-21 ° C (if necessary, use an air conditioner or a fan, without directing the air flow to the patient).

Drink more water

An increase in temperature can lead the human body to dehydration. Therefore, it is important to keep your body hydrated by drinking as much water as possible. Refrain from drinking liquids with a high sugar content.

At elevated temperatures, it is better to use plain or mineral water. This will help in replacing the electrolytes in your body.

cool bath

If the person has a fever of 40°C or more or is bothered by it, dip him up to his waist in a bath of lukewarm water. Its temperature should be pleasant for the body. Cool water can cause vasospasm and chills in such cases, which increases the body temperature.

When bathing, massage the skin with a washcloth to improve blood circulation and increase heat transfer. It takes at least 20 minutes to lower body temperature by 1°C. After bathing, blot the skin, leaving some moisture on it to continue the cooling process. If symptoms of fever recur, repeat the procedure.

Acetic rubdown

Use apple or table vinegar 9%. Mix vinegar with warm water in a glass or enamel bowl in a ratio of 1 tbsp. 500 ml of warm (not hot) boiled water. Next, moisten the sponge and wipe the skin with it: first the back and stomach, then the arms, legs, palms and feet. Then fan the patient so that the liquid evaporates faster. The procedure is repeated every 2-3 hours.

Rubbing with vinegar solution does not bring down the temperature for good, but only reduces it to a comfortable level. It is easier for the body to cope with the disease. Complications from elevated temperature are excluded.

Wipe the following areas of the body: armpits, elbow bend, knee bend, behind the ears, forehead, neck.

But remember: clean vinegar should not be rubbed in any case, damage the skin!

Cold wrap

Lay down a terry towel or blanket. Place a wet sheet or cloth on top. Lay the undressed person on a wet cloth. Wrap it around, and on top with a thick warm blanket. After half an hour, unfold, wipe and change into dry clothes. Perform a cold wrap once a day. Used only at temperatures above 38.5. Before this aisle, do a warm wrap.

Cleansing enema

Dissolve 2 tsp in a glass of cold water. salt. Add 10-15 drops of beetroot juice. After that, collect the prepared solution in an enema.

Chamomile enema

If a baby or an adult has a diseased intestinal tract (colitis), then it is much better to do a cleansing enema so that it is also curative.

If there are problems with the intestines (colitis), then it is better to do a cleansing enema with healing properties. Add chamomile to the solution. Brew like this: 3-4 tbsp. put chamomile flowers in an enamel bowl. Pour one glass of hot boiled water, cover and heat in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.

Then it is cooled at room temperature for 45 minutes, filtered, the remaining raw material is squeezed out, and the amount of the resulting infusion is diluted with boiled water to a volume of 200 ml. This solution has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Warm compress

Soak a washcloth in warm mint tea, then wring it out thoroughly.

Put prepared compresses on the forehead, temples, wrists, inguinal folds. Change these compresses every 10 minutes. This method will help to quickly bring down the temperature in an adult.

Hypertonic saline

At high temperatures, it is worth drinking hypertonic solutions. Calculate the dose as follows: prepare 1-2 teaspoons of salt for 1 cup (200 ml) of warm boiled water (cool water will cause cramps and pain in the baby).

The prepared solution helps the absorption of water through the intestinal walls and removes toxins along with feces.

1. Take an antipyretic medicine

   Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are considered the safest means to reduce fever. Paracetamol will require 15 mg/kg, Ibuprofen -10 mg/kg. There are many forms of paracetamol and ibuprofen.

   Paracetamol has a pronounced analgesic and antipyretic effect. It slowly and for a long time reduces the heat. It should be taken 1 tablet every 6 hours.

   If paracetamol is ineffective, ibuprofen should be used. It begins to act quite quickly and reduces the heat for a long time. In addition, it has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Take ibuprofen, should be no more than 3-4 times a day, 1-2 tablets.

   If all else fails, call an ambulance immediately. Since high temperature can cause convulsions, and this, in turn, vasospasm and respiratory arrest.

Pills to reduce body temperature in an adult

Paracetamol (acetaminophen), ibuprofen, or aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) are used to reduce fever in adults.

Paracetamol tablets 500 mg, 20 pcs.

Paracetamol is sold in dosages: 10 mg, 200 mg, 500 mg, 325 mg.

Adults should take 500 or 325 mg tablets. 1 tablet 4 times a day. Capsules do not irritate the gastric mucosa, due to the protective shell.

Contraindications for use:

• liver and kidney diseases
• individual intolerance
• when using rectal suppositories, contraindications are inflammatory diseases of the rectal mucosa

Side effects:

• nausea
• pain in the epigastric region
• increased excitability or vice versa drowsiness
• skin rashes
• angioedema
• renal colic

Ibuprofen 200 mg tablets 50 pcs.

Another equally well-known antipyretic drug is Ibuprofen. In addition to the antipyretic effect, it acts as an anesthetic drug.

Ibuprofen is sold in a dosage of 200 mg. It should be taken 1 tablet 4 times a day. But if necessary, the number of tablets can be increased up to 6 times a day. Not more.

Contraindications to taking Ibuprofen:

• severe disorders of the liver and kidneys
• drug intolerance
• hematopoietic disorders
• alcohol intake

Side effects of Ibuprofen:

If you do not violate the dosage, side effects will not appear. Common side effects include:

• nausea
• anorexia
• flatulence
• constipation
• heartburn
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• excitation
• insomnia
• allergic reactions in the form of a skin rash
• visual impairment

Acetylsalicylic acid tablets 500 mg, 10 pcs.

As an antipyretic, Aspirin is taken 1 tablet 3 times a day. Definitely after a meal.

Side effects of aspirin include:

• lack of appetite
• pain in the stomach
• tinnitus and hearing loss
• skin and other allergic reactions

Contraindications when taking Aspirin:

• peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum
• increased tendency to bleed
• dysfunction of the kidneys and liver
• concurrent treatment with anticoagulants
• bronchial asthma

Studies have shown that aspirin is not so safe anymore. Since up to 12 years old it can cause the so-called. Reye's syndrome.

But not everyone knows that in addition to the antipyretic effect, aspirin has another equally important property. It helps to get rid of skin problems. More specifically, it fights pimples! This is the cheapest remedy in the fight for clear skin. Here is a simple recipe for an aspirin mask for oily skin:

• you need 6 aspirin tablets
• push them apart
• add 1 teaspoon of water
• mix and apply the resulting slurry to moistened skin
• hold for 5-10 minutes and rinse with cool water
• can be applied partially to problem areas of the skin

Powders to reduce body temperature

Antipyretic powders (teas) are very popular and widespread. Indeed, as experience shows, when taking the powder, we also prevent dehydration, which always develops in the presence of high temperature.

Let's look at the most common powders to reduce the temperature.

Coldrex hotrem with honey and lemon flavor sachets 5 g, 5 pcs.

Composition of Coldrex hotrem: 5 g of powder contains paracetamol 750 mg, phenylephrine hydrochloride 10 mg and ascorbic acid 60 mg

Indications for admission - symptomatic therapy of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza accompanied by:

• hyperthermia
• headache
• chills
• nasal congestion
• sore throat when swallowing
• sinus pain (sinusitis)
• joint and muscle pain

Contraindications when taking Coldrex hotrem:

• severe liver dysfunction
• severe renal impairment
• hematopoietic disorders
• thyrotoxicosis
• arterial hypertension
• simultaneous use of beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, MAO inhibitors and a period of up to 14 days after their withdrawal
• glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug

How to use Coldrex hotrem and doses:

Pour the contents of 1 sachet into a glass of hot water, stir until completely dissolved and add cold water or sugar as desired. The maximum duration of the drug is 5 days

TeraFlu sachets 10 pcs., lemon

TheraFlu composition: paracetamol 325 mg, pheniramine maleate 20 mg, phenylephrine hydrochloride 10 mg, ascorbic acid 50 mg, excipients, sweeteners, dyes, etc.

How to use TheraFlu: appoint 1 sachet inside. The contents should be dissolved in 1 cup of hot boiled water. Drink hot. The maximum allowable daily dose is 3 sachets. Reception frequency - every 4-6 hours. It is not recommended to use Theraflu for more than 5 days.

Contraindications when taking TheraFlu:

• children under 12
• pregnancy and lactation
• liver and kidney dysfunction
• thyrotoxicosis
• diabetes
• heart disease (myocardial infarction, tachyarrhythmias)
• arterial hypertension
• angle-closure glaucoma

In rare cases and if the dosage is violated, TeraFlu side effects may occur:

• drowsiness
• dry throat and mouth
• headache
• fatigue
• insomnia vomiting
• constipation
• nausea
• diarrhea and bloating

Rinzasip with vitamin C

Rinzasip composition and release form. Powder for oral solution with orange, lemon, currant flavor: 1 sachet (5 g) contains paracetamol 750 mg, ascorbic acid 200 mg, caffeine 30 mg, pheniramine maleate 20 mg, phenylephrine hydrochloride 10 mg.

Excipients: anhydrous citric acid, sodium saccharin, sodium citrate, sucrose, dye, orange, citric and currant flavoring; 5 or 10 pcs per pack.

Indications for use: symptomatic treatment of colds, influenza, SARS (fever syndrome, pain syndrome, rhinorrhea).

Rinzasip contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to paracetamol and other components of Rinzasip
• concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, beta-blockers
• pregnancy; lactation (breastfeeding)
• children and adolescents up to 15 years of age
• concomitant use of other drugs, which include the active substances of the drug

With caution: severe atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries, arterial hypertension, thyrotoxicosis, pheochromocytoma, diabetes mellitus, bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, blood diseases, congenital hyperbilirubinemia (Gilbert, Dubin-Johnson and Rotor syndromes), hepatic and / or renal failure, angle-closure glaucoma, prostatic hyperplasia.

Method of application of Rinzasip and doses: adults and children over 15 years of age are prescribed 1 sachet of Rinzasip 3-4 times a day with intervals between doses of at least 4-6 hours. The maximum daily dose is 4 sachets. The course of treatment should not exceed 5 days.

Rinzasip is taken 1-2 hours after a meal with plenty of liquid.

The contents of 1 sachet are dissolved in 1 glass of hot water (stir until completely dissolved). You can add sugar or honey.

Side effects of Rinzasip:

• From the side of the central nervous system: dizziness, sleep disturbance, irritability, mydriasis, increased intraocular pressure, accommodation paresis
• From the side of the cardiovascular system: increased blood pressure, tachycardia
• From the digestive system: nausea, epigastric pain, dry mouth, hepatotoxic effect
• From the hemopoietic system: anemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis, hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, methemoglobinemia, pancytopenia
• From the urinary system: urinary retention, nephrotoxic effect (papillary necrosis)
• Allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, urticaria, angioedema
• Other: broncho-obstructive syndrome

Injections to reduce body temperature in adults

If the above methods did not help, then the so-called lytic mixture is used to reduce high body temperature. Apply different variations of the lytic mixture:

Lytic Mix Option #1:

1. Analgin
2. No-Shpa
3. Suprastin

Lytic Mix Option #2:

1. Analgin
2. Papaverine
3. Diphenhydramine

About ways to measure body temperature

It would seem that there is nothing complicated in measuring body temperature. If there is no thermometer at hand, then you can touch the forehead of the sick person with your lips, but mistakes often occur here, this method will not allow you to accurately determine the temperature.

Another more accurate technique is counting the pulse. An increase in temperature by 1 degree leads to an increase in heart rate of 10 beats per minute. Thus, you can roughly calculate how much the temperature has risen, knowing the indicator of your normal pulse. Also, an increase in the frequency of respiratory movements indicates a fever. Normally, children take about 25 breaths per minute, and adults - up to 15 breaths.

Measurement of body temperature with a thermometer is carried out not only in the armpit, but also orally or rectally (holding a thermometer in the mouth or anus). For young children, a thermometer is sometimes placed in the inguinal fold. There are a number of rules that should be followed when measuring temperature so as not to get a false result.

• The skin at the measurement site must be dry.
• During the measurement, you can not make movements, it is advisable not to talk.
• When measuring the temperature in the armpit, the thermometer should be held for about 3 minutes (the norm is 36.2 - 37.0 degrees).
• If you use the oral method, then the thermometer should be held for 1.5 minutes (normal is 36.6 - 37.2 degrees).
• When measuring the temperature in the anus, it is enough to hold the thermometer for one minute (the norm with this technique is 36.8 - 37.6 degrees)

Norm and pathology: when is it time to “knock down” the temperature?

It is generally accepted that normal body temperature is 36.6 degrees, however, as you can see, this is rather relative. The temperature can reach 37.0 degrees and be considered normal, it usually rises to such levels in the evening or during the hot season, after physical activity. Therefore, if before going to bed on the thermometer you saw the number 37.0, then there is nothing to worry about yet. When the temperature exceeds this limit, it is already possible to speak of a fever. It is also characterized by a feeling of heat or chills, redness of the skin.

When should the temperature be brought down?

The doctors of our clinic recommend the use of antipyretics when the body temperature reaches 38.5 degrees in children and 39.0 degrees in adults. But even in these cases, you should not take a large dose of antipyretic, it is enough to lower the temperature by 1.0 - 1.5 degrees so that the effective fight against infection continues without a threat to the body.

A dangerous sign of fever is blanching of the skin, their "marbling", while the skin remains cold to the touch. This indicates a spasm of peripheral vessels. Typically, this phenomenon is more common in children, and is followed by convulsions. In such cases, it is urgent to call an ambulance.

infectious fever

With bacterial or viral infections, the temperature rises almost always. How much it increases depends, firstly, on the amount of the pathogen, and secondly, on the state of the body of the person himself. For example, in the elderly, even an acute infection may be accompanied by a slight increase in temperature.

It is curious that with various infectious diseases, body temperature can behave differently: rise in the morning and subside in the evening, increase by a certain number of degrees and decrease after a few days. Depending on this, various types of fevers were distinguished - perverse, recurrent, and others. For doctors, this is a very valuable diagnostic criterion, since the type of fever makes it possible to narrow down the range of suspected diseases. Therefore, in case of infection, temperature should be measured in the morning and evening, preferably during the day.

What infections raise the temperature?

Usually, with an acute infection, a sharp temperature jump occurs, while there are general signs of intoxication: weakness, dizziness, or nausea.

1. If fever is accompanied by cough, sore throat or chest, difficulty breathing, hoarseness, then we are talking about a respiratory infectious disease.
2. If the body temperature rises, and with it diarrhea begins, nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain occur, then there is practically no doubt that this is an intestinal infection.
3. A third option is also possible, when against the background of fever there is a sore throat, redness of the pharyngeal mucosa, cough and runny nose are sometimes noted, and there are also pains in the abdomen and diarrhea. In this case, rotavirus infection or the so-called "intestinal flu" should be suspected. But with any symptoms, it is better to seek help from our doctors.
4. Sometimes a local infection on any part of the body can cause a fever. For example, fever is often accompanied by carbuncles, abscesses, or phlegmon. It also occurs with (, carbuncle of the kidney). Only in the case of acute fever almost never happens, because the suction capacity of the bladder mucosa is minimal, and the substances that cause fever practically do not penetrate into the blood.

Sluggish chronic infectious processes in the body can also cause fever, especially in the period of exacerbation. However, a slight increase in temperature is often observed at normal times, when there are practically no other obvious symptoms of the disease.

When does the temperature rise again?

1. An unexplained increase in body temperature is noted with oncological diseases. This usually becomes one of the first symptoms along with weakness, apathy, loss of appetite, sudden weight loss and a depressed mood. In such cases, the elevated temperature lasts for a long time, but at the same time remains febrile, that is, does not exceed 38.5 degrees. As a rule, with tumors, the fever is undulating. Body temperature rises slowly, and when it reaches its peak, it also slowly decreases. Then there comes a period when the normal temperature is maintained, and then its increase begins again.
2. At lymphogranulomatosis or Hodgkin's disease undulating fever is also common, although other types may be seen. An increase in temperature in this case is accompanied by chills, and when it decreases, then pouring sweat occurs. Excessive sweating occurs usually at night. Along with this, Hodgkin's disease manifests itself as enlarged lymph nodes, sometimes itching is present.
3. Body temperature rises when acute leukemia. Often it is confused with a sore throat, because there is pain when swallowing, a feeling of palpitations, lymph nodes enlarge, often there is increased bleeding (hematomas appear on the skin). But even before the onset of these symptoms, patients report a sharp and unmotivated weakness. It is noteworthy that antibiotic therapy does not give positive results, that is, the temperature does not decrease.
4. Fever may also indicate endocrine diseases. For example, it almost always appears with thyrotoxicosis. At the same time, body temperature usually remains subfebrile, that is, it does not rise more than 37.5 degrees, however, during periods of exacerbations (crises), a significant excess of this limit can be observed. In addition to fever, thyrotoxicosis is disturbed by mood swings, tearfulness, irritability, insomnia, a sharp loss of body weight against the background of increased appetite, trembling of the tip of the tongue and fingers, and menstrual irregularities in women. With hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands, the temperature can rise to 38 - 39 degrees. In the case of hyperparathyroidism, patients complain of intense thirst, frequent urge to urinate, nausea, drowsiness, and pruritus.
5. Particular attention should be paid to fever that appears several weeks after a respiratory illness (most often after a sore throat), as it may indicate the development rheumatic myocarditis. Usually the body temperature rises slightly - up to 37.0 - 37.5 degrees, however, such a fever is a very serious reason for contacting our doctor. In addition, body temperature may rise with endocarditis or, but in this case, the main attention is not paid to chest pains, which cannot be relieved by available analgesics.
6. Curiously, the temperature often rises with peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum, though it also does not exceed 37.5 degrees. The fever is aggravated if there is internal bleeding. Its symptoms are sharp dagger pains, vomiting of "coffee grounds" or tarry feces, as well as sudden and increasing weakness.
7. Cerebral disorders(, traumatic brain injury or brain tumors) provoke an increase in temperature, irritating the center of its regulation in the brain. Fever in this case can be very different.
8. drug fever most often occurs in response to the use of antibiotics and some other drugs, while it is part of an allergic reaction, therefore it is usually accompanied by skin itching and rashes.

What to do with high temperature?

Many, having discovered that they have an elevated temperature, immediately try to reduce it, using antipyretics available to everyone. However, their thoughtless use can harm even more than the fever itself, because fever is not a disease, but just a symptom, so suppressing it without establishing the cause is not always correct.

This is especially true of infectious diseases, when pathogens must die under conditions of elevated temperature. If you try to lower the temperature at the same time, infectious agents will remain alive and unharmed in the body.

Therefore, do not rush to run for pills, but lower the temperature competently, when the need arises, our specialists will help you with this. If fever has been bothering you for a long time, you should contact one of our doctors: as you can see, it can speak of many non-communicable diseases, so additional research is indispensable.

Since childhood, we know that the normal body temperature is 36.6 degrees. If the thermometer shows a higher figure, then we are sick. Does an elevated body temperature always indicate that a failure has occurred in the body, and why it rises, and also when you urgently need to see a doctor, AiF.ru tells osteopath, cranioposturologist Vladimir Zhivotov.

Why is the temperature rising?

Few people know that our body temperature tends to change slightly during the day. When a person wakes up, his body temperature may be below the established norm and be 35.5-36 degrees. And by the evening, on the contrary, our body can heat up by 0.5-1 degrees. Any higher figure is already a signal to start looking for the causes of elevated temperature.

Why is the temperature rising?

A high temperature for most people is a malaise, weakness, a broken state. And, of course, when we see numbers above 37 on the thermometer, we get upset. But in fact, the ability of the body to raise the temperature is an amazing gift that nature has given us. It is thanks to hyperthermia that our body is able to fight off foreign organisms on its own. An increase in body temperature in response to the introduction of viruses or bacteria is a protective reaction aimed at enhancing the immune response. At elevated temperatures, immune factors work most actively: the cells responsible for the antiviral and antibacterial response begin to perform their functions much faster and more efficiently, and immune responses become stronger.

Antibodies circulating in the blood associated with foreign antigens, as well as fragments of viruses and bacterial membranes, enter the hypothalamus with the blood flow, where the thermoregulation center is located, and cause an increase in temperature. Since this is a defensive reaction, you should not panic and try to immediately bring down the temperature with the help of antipyretics. With such actions, you will suppress the immune response and prevent the body from fighting infections, because some of them die at a body temperature of about 38 degrees. Not to mention that antipyretic drugs have certain side effects.

Reasons for the rise in temperature

The body is struggling with something unfavorable and foreign: bacteria, viruses, protozoa. Any inflammatory process in a single organ, whether it be stomatitis, lactostasis in lactating women, pyelonephritis, tonsillitis, inflammation of the appendages, and even caries, can lead to an increase in temperature.

Food poisoning or any other intoxication can also provoke a fever. Then the high temperature will be accompanied by a violation of the stool, vomiting, headache. High temperature is also provoked by various endocrine diseases. It is worth donating blood for hormones when elevated body temperature is combined with weight loss, irritability, tearfulness, and fatigue. These may be symptoms of increased thyroid function.

If the body temperature stays at 38 degrees for a long time and at the same time the person does not feel a cold, it is urgent to do a fluorography to exclude tuberculosis of the lungs. This study must be done without fail every year for persons who have reached the age of 15.

Sometimes a slight increase in body temperature in women can be associated with the menstrual cycle: when ovulation begins, the body temperature rises, but with the onset of menstruation it returns to normal. In this case, there is no cause for concern.

But sometimes it happens that there are no apparent reasons for an increase in body temperature. Analyzes are normal, no symptoms of a cold are observed. However, in the body, nothing happens just like that. A prolonged rise in temperature (slightly above 37) can raise the suspicion of problems in the hypothalamus: the thermoregulatory center, which is responsible for the constancy of body temperature. This can happen at any age, but most often occurs either at the beginning of puberty, or by the time the first menstruation appears and a little later. Along with elevated temperature, adolescents are worried about headaches, insomnia, fatigue and irritability, and signs of scoliosis are noted.

How to lower the temperature?

Firstly, there is no need to panic and seek to lower the temperature if it does not exceed 38 degrees. In this case, bed rest and plenty of fluids will suffice. If the temperature is above 38 degrees, you need to look at the state, because for each person the critical body temperature is different. The general recommendation is this: when the temperature is tolerated quite easily, it is better not to bring it down to 38.2-38.5. If at the same time your head hurts, you are worried about severe chills, or you “twist” your joints, you can take medicine. Regular aspirin has a good antipyretic effect. To avoid side effects, it must be crushed before taking, or simply chewed thoroughly and washed down with mineral water or milk.

Of course, if a child has convulsions with an increase in temperature, it must be lowered without waiting for 38. It should be noted that any case of febrile convulsions requires an in-depth examination by an epileptologist and the attention of an osteopath. If the mercury column has reached the level of 38, in any case, this is a reason to call the local doctor: it is necessary to examine the patient and find out the causes of the fever.

In order to alleviate the patient's condition without medication, you can make cold compresses on the forehead and wiping the body with warm water. And you need to wipe it so that droplets of liquid remain on the skin. It is their evaporation that causes the cooling of the body. If a child is sick, then it is better not to do a vodka-vinegar rubdown. A pungent odor can cause a spasm of the respiratory tract, and the components of such a solution can be absorbed through the skin and increase intoxication. You can wet woolen socks with warm water and put on the child. As the socks dry out, the body temperature will drop significantly. If the legs are cold, then you need to put on dry warm socks and massage the foot and fingers. This will help reduce vasospasm and lower the temperature.

As a drink at elevated body temperature, alkaline mineral water with a low percentage of mineralization and ordinary boiled water, as well as cranberry, currant, sea buckthorn and lingonberry fruit drinks are perfect. The latter, by the way, contains acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin).

Temperature changes are a frequent companion of diseases. Why in most cases it is not necessary to bring down the temperature and how to remove the heat, if necessary?

What to do with elevated body temperature is one of the most common questions for therapists and pediatricians. Indeed, the heat often frightens patients. However, are elevated values ​​always a cause for panic? Under what conditions does the temperature stay, and under what diseases does it, on the contrary, fall? And when are antipyretics really needed? What temperature should be normal in children and the elderly? MedAboutMe dealt with these and many other issues.

body temperature in adults

Thermoregulation is responsible for human temperature - the ability of warm-blooded organisms to maintain a constant temperature, reduce or increase it if necessary. The hypothalamus is primarily responsible for these processes. However, today scientists are inclined to believe that it is wrong to determine a single center of thermoregulation, because many factors affect the temperature of the human body.

In childhood, the temperature changes under the slightest influence, while in adults (from 16-18 years old) it is quite stable. Although it also rarely stays on one indicator all day. Physiological changes are known that reflect circadian rhythms. For example, the difference between normal temperature in the morning and in the evening in a healthy person will be 0.5-1.0°C. With these rhythms, a characteristic increase in fever in the evening hours in a sick person is also associated.

The temperature can change under the influence of the external environment, increase with physical exertion, eating certain foods (especially often after spicy meals and overeating), stress, fear, and even intense mental work.

What temperature should be normal

Everyone is well aware of the value of 36.6 ° C. However, what temperature should be normal in reality?

The figure of 36.6 ° C appeared as a result of research conducted by the German physician Karl Reinhold Wunderlich back in the middle of the 19th century. Then he made about 1 million temperature measurements in the armpit in 25 thousand patients. And the value of 36.6°C was just the average body temperature of a healthy person.

According to modern standards, the norm is not a specific figure, but a range from 36 ° C to 37.4 ° C. Moreover, doctors recommend periodically measuring the temperature in a healthy state in order to accurately know the individual values ​​​​of the norm. It should be borne in mind that with age, body temperature changes - in childhood it can be quite high, and in old age it drops. Therefore, an indicator of 36 ° C for an elderly person will be the norm, but for a child it can indicate hypothermia and a symptom of the disease.

It is also important to consider how the temperature is measured - the values ​​​​in the armpit, rectum or under the tongue can differ by 1-1.5 ° C.

The temperature is very dependent on hormonal activity and therefore it is not surprising that pregnant women often experience fever. Hot flashes during menopause and temperature fluctuations during menstruation are associated with hormonal changes.

It is very important for expectant mothers to carefully monitor their condition, while understanding that a slightly elevated or low temperature during pregnancy is the norm for most women. For example, if the values ​​​​do not exceed 37 ° C in the first weeks, and there are no other symptoms of malaise, then the condition can be explained by the activity of female sex hormones. Particularly progesterone.

And yet, if the temperature during pregnancy lasts for a long time, then even subfebrile indicators (37-38 ° C) should be a reason for consulting a doctor. With such a symptom, it is important to undergo examinations and take tests to exclude the presence of such infections - cytomegalovirus, tuberculosis, pyelonephritis, herpes, hepatitis and others.

Temperature during pregnancy can also be a sign of common seasonal SARS. In this case, it is very important not to self-medicate, but to consult a doctor. If the common cold is unlikely to pose a danger to the fetus, then the flu can lead to serious consequences, up to an early miscarriage. With influenza, the temperature rises to 39 ° C.

The child's temperature

The system of thermoregulation in children under 1 year of age has not yet been established, therefore the temperature in a child can change significantly under the slightest influence. This is especially true for babies in the first three months of life. Most often, parents are concerned about elevated values, however, the causes of a temperature of 37-38 ° C can be:

• Too warm clothes.
• Cry.
• Laugh.
• Eating, including breastfeeding.
• Bathing in water above 34-36°C.

After sleep, the values ​​\u200b\u200bare usually lower, but with active games, the child's temperature rises quickly. Therefore, when taking measurements, it is necessary to take into account all external factors that could affect them.

At the same time, too high a temperature (38 ° C and above) can be dangerous for small children. To compensate for the heat, the body uses a lot of water and therefore dehydration is often observed. Moreover, in a child, this condition occurs faster than in an adult. Dehydration can pose a danger to health (often against its background there is a deterioration in the condition, subsequently complicated by pneumonia) and life (with severe dehydration, there may be loss of consciousness and even death).

In addition, some children under 5 years of age experience febrile convulsions - when the child's temperature rises to 38-39 ° C, involuntary muscle contractions begin, short-term fainting is possible. If at least once such a condition was observed, in the future, even with a slight heat, the baby needs to bring down the temperature.

Human temperature

Normally, human temperature is controlled by the endocrine system, in particular, the hypothalamus and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4, as well as the hormone TSH, which regulates their production). Thermoregulation is influenced by sex hormones. And yet, infections remain the main cause of fever, and too low a temperature in most cases is caused by overwork or a lack of vitamins, micro- and macroelements.

Man is a warm-blooded creature, which means that the body can maintain a stable temperature regardless of environmental factors. At the same time, in severe frost, the overall temperature drops, and in hot weather it can rise so much that a person will get heat stroke. This is due to the fact that our body is quite sensitive to thermal changes - changes of only 2-3 degrees of temperature significantly affect metabolic processes, hemodynamics and the transmission of impulses through nerve cells. As a result, pressure may increase, convulsions and confusion may occur. Frequent symptoms of low temperature are lethargy, at a value of 30-32 ° C there may be loss of consciousness; and high - delusional states.

Types of fever

For the vast majority of diseases that occur with an increase in temperature, certain ranges of values ​​are characteristic. Therefore, it is often enough for a doctor to make a diagnosis to know not the exact value, but the type of fever. In medicine, there are several types of them:

• Subfebrile - from 37 ° C to 38 ° C.
• Febrile - from 38°C to 39°C.
• High - more than 39°C.
• Dangerous for life - the line is 40.5-41 ° C.

Temperature values ​​are evaluated in combination with other symptoms, since the degree of fever does not always correspond to the severity of the disease. For example, subfebrile temperature is observed in such dangerous diseases as tuberculosis, viral hepatitis, pyelonephritis and others. A particularly alarming symptom is a condition in which the temperature is kept at 37-37.5 ° C for a long time. This may indicate disruption of the endocrine system and even malignant tumors.

fluctuations in normal body temperature

As already mentioned, the normal temperature in a healthy person can change throughout the day, as well as under the influence of certain factors (food, physical activity, and more). In this case, you need to remember what temperature should be at different ages:

• Children under one year old - a temperature of 37-38 ° C can be considered the norm.
• Up to 5 years - 36.6-37.5 ° C.
• Adolescence - there may be strong fluctuations in temperature associated with the activity of sex hormones. The values ​​stabilize in girls at the age of 13-14, in boys differences can be observed up to 18 years.
• Adults - 36-37.4 ° C.
• Elderly people over 65 years old - up to 36.3 ° C. A temperature of 37°C can be considered a serious febrile condition.

In men, the average body temperature is lower on average by 0.5 ° C than in women.

There are several ways to measure body temperature. And in each case there will be their own norms of values. Among the most popular methods are:

• Axillary (in the armpit).

In order to get accurate values, the skin must be dry, and the thermometer itself must be pressed tightly enough to the body. This method will require the most time (with a mercury thermometer - 7-10 minutes), since the skin itself must warm up. The norm of temperature degrees in the armpit is 36.2-36.9 ° C.

• Rectally (in the rectum).

The method is most popular for young children, as one of the safest. For this method, it is better to use electronic thermometers with a soft tip, the measurement time is 1-1.5 minutes. The norm of values ​​​​is 36.8-37.6 ° C (on average, it differs by 1 ° C from axillary values).

• Orally, sublingually (in the mouth, under the tongue).

In our country, the method is not widely used, although in Europe this is how the temperature in adults is most often measured. It takes from 1 to 5 minutes to measure, depending on the type of device. The temperature values ​​​​are normal - 36.6-37.2 ° C.

• In the ear canal.

The method is used to measure the temperature of a child and requires a special type of thermometer (non-contact measurement), therefore it is not very common. In addition to determining the overall temperature, the method will also help in the diagnosis of otitis media. If there is inflammation, then in different ears the temperature will be very different.

• Into the vagina.

It is most often used to determine basal temperature (the lowest body temperature that is recorded during rest). Measured after sleep, an increase of 0.5 ° C indicates the onset of ovulation.

Types of thermometers

Today in pharmacies you can find different types of thermometers for measuring a person's temperature. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Mercury (maximum) thermometer.

It is considered one of the most accurate types and at the same time affordable. In addition, it is used in hospitals and clinics, as it is easily disinfected and can be used for a large number of people. Disadvantages include slow temperature measurement and brittleness. A broken thermometer is dangerous with poisonous mercury vapor. Therefore, for children today it is used quite rarely, they are not used for oral measurement.

• Electronic (digital) thermometer.

The most popular type for home use. Quickly measures the temperature (from 30 seconds to 1.5 minutes), informs about the end with a sound signal. Electronic thermometers can be with soft tips (for rectal temperature measurement in a child) and hard (universal devices). If the thermometer is used rectally or orally, it must be individual - for one person only. The disadvantage of such a thermometer is often inaccurate values. Therefore, after purchase, you need to measure the temperature in a healthy state in order to know the possible error range.

• Infrared thermometer.

Relatively new and expensive. Used to measure temperature in a non-contact way, for example, in the ear, forehead or temple. The speed of obtaining the result is 2-5 seconds. A slight error of 0.2-0.5°C is allowed. A significant drawback of the thermometer is its limited use - it is not used for measurements in the usual ways (axillary, rectal, oral). In addition, each model is designed for its own method (forehead, temple, ear) and cannot be used in other areas.

Relatively recently, thermal strips were popular - flexible films with crystals that change color at different temperatures. In order to get the result, it is enough to apply the strip to the forehead and wait for about 1 minute. This method of measurement does not determine the exact degrees of temperature, but only shows the values ​​\u200b\u200bof "low", "normal", "high". Therefore, it cannot replace full-fledged thermometers.

An increase in body temperature is well felt by a person. This condition is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Fatigue, general weakness.
• Chills (the more fever, the more chills).
• Headache.
• Aches in the body, especially in the joints, muscles and fingers.
• Feeling cold.
• Sensation of heat in the region of the eyeballs.
• Dry mouth.
• Decreased or complete loss of appetite.
• Rapid heartbeat, arrhythmias.
• Sweating (if the body can regulate heat), dry skin (when the temperature rises).

Rose and white fever

High fever can manifest differently in children and adults. It is customary to distinguish two types of fever:

• Pink (red).

It is named so for its characteristic features - red skin, especially pronounced blush on the cheeks and face as a whole. The most common type of fever, in which the body is able to provide optimal heat transfer - the superficial vessels expand (this is how the blood cools), sweating is activated (decrease in skin temperature). The patient's condition, as a rule, is stable, there are no significant violations of the general condition and well-being.

• White.

A rather dangerous form of fever, in which failures of thermoregulatory processes occur in the body. The skin in this case is white, and sometimes even cool (especially cold hands and feet), while the measurement of rectal or oral temperature shows fever. A person is tormented by chills, the condition worsens significantly, fainting and confusion can be observed. White fever develops if there is a spasm of blood vessels under the skin, as a result of which the body cannot start the cooling mechanisms. The condition is dangerous in that the temperature rises significantly in vital organs (brain, heart, liver, kidneys, etc.) and can affect their functions.

Thermoregulation is provided by the endocrine system, which triggers various mechanisms to increase or decrease a person's temperature. And of course, violations in the production of hormones or the functioning of the glands lead to violations of thermoregulation. Such manifestations, as a rule, are stable, and the values ​​remain within the subfebrile range.

The main cause of elevated temperature are pyrogens, which can affect thermoregulation. Moreover, some of them are not introduced from the outside by pathogens, but are secreted by cells of the immune system. Such pyrogens are designed to increase the effectiveness of the fight against various health-threatening conditions. The temperature rises in such cases:

• Infections - viruses, bacteria, protozoa and others.
• Burns, injuries. As a rule, there is a local increase in temperature, but with a large area of ​​​​the lesion there may be a general fever.
• Allergic reactions. In these cases, the immune system produces pyrogens to fight harmless substances.
• shock states.

ARI and high fever

Seasonal respiratory diseases are the most common cause of fever. In this case, depending on the type of infection, its values ​​​​will be different.

• With a standard cold or a mild form of ARVI, subfebrile temperature is observed, in addition, it rises gradually, on average over 6-12 hours. With proper treatment, the fever lasts no more than 4 days, after which it begins to subside or disappear altogether.
• If the temperature rises sharply and exceeds 38 ° C, this may be a symptom of the flu. Unlike other acute respiratory viral infections, this disease requires mandatory monitoring by a local therapist or pediatrician.
• If the fever resumed after the condition improved or did not go away on the 5th day from the onset of the disease, this most often indicates complications. A bacterial infection has joined the initial viral infection, the temperature is usually above 38°C. The condition requires an urgent call to the doctor, as the patient may need antibiotic therapy.

A temperature of 37-38 ° C is typical for such diseases:

• SARS.
• Exacerbations of chronic respiratory diseases. For example, bronchitis or bronchial asthma, tonsillitis.
• Tuberculosis.
• Chronic diseases of internal organs during an exacerbation: myocarditis, endocarditis (inflammation of the heart membranes), pyelonephritis and glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidneys).
• Ulcer, colitis.
• Viral hepatitis (usually hepatitis B and C).
• Herpes in the acute stage.
• Exacerbation of psoriasis.
• Infection with toxoplasmosis.

This temperature is typical for the initial stage of thyroid dysfunction, with increased production of hormones (thyrotoxicosis). Hormonal disturbances during menopause can also cause mild fever. Subfebrile values ​​can be observed in people with helminthic invasion.

Diseases with a temperature of 39 ° C and above

High temperature accompanies diseases that cause severe intoxication of the body. Most often, values ​​​​within 39 ° C degrees indicate the development of an acute bacterial infection:

• Angina.
• Pneumonia.
• Acute pyelonephritis.
• Gastrointestinal diseases: salmonellosis, dysentery, cholera.
• Sepsis.

At the same time, intense fever is also characteristic of other infections:

• Flu.
• Hemorrhagic fever, in which the kidneys are severely affected.
• Chickenpox.
• Measles.
• Meningitis, encephalitis.
• Viral hepatitis A.

Other causes of high fever

Violations of thermoregulation can be observed without visible diseases. Another dangerous reason that the temperature has risen is the inability of the body to provide adequate heat transfer. This happens, as a rule, with prolonged exposure to the sun in the hot season or in a too stuffy room. The temperature of the child may rise if he is dressed too warmly. The condition is dangerous with heatstroke, which can be fatal for people with heart and lung disease. With severe overheating, even in healthy people, organs, primarily the brain, suffer significantly. Also, fever for no apparent reason can manifest itself in emotional people during periods of stress and great excitement.

A low temperature is less common than a fever, but it can also indicate serious health problems. Indicators below 35.5 ° C for an adult are considered a sign of diseases and disorders of the body, and below 35 ° C in the elderly.

The following degrees of body temperature are considered life-threatening:

• 32.2 ° C - a person will fall into a stupor, there is a strong lethargy.
• 30-29°C - loss of consciousness.
• Below 26.5 ° C - a fatal outcome is possible.

Low temperature is characterized by the following symptoms:

• General weakness, malaise.
• Drowsiness.
• There may be irritability.
• The extremities become cold, numbness of the fingers develops.
• Attention disturbances and problems with thought processes are noticeable, the speed of reactions decreases.
• General feeling of coldness, trembling in the body.

Causes of low temperature

Among the main reasons for low temperatures are the following:

• General weakness of the body caused by external factors and living conditions.

Insufficient nutrition, lack of sleep, stress and emotional distress can affect thermoregulation.

• Endocrine system disorders.

Associated, as a rule, with insufficient synthesis of hormones.

• Hypothermia.

The most common cause of low temperature in humans. The condition is dangerous by a violation of metabolic processes and frostbite of the extremities only in the case of a strong drop in temperature. With a slight hypothermia, a person's local immunity decreases, so this or that infection often develops subsequently.

• Weakened immune system.

It is observed during the recovery period, after operations, it can manifest itself against the background of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Also low temperature is typical for people with AIDS.

Hormones play an important role in the processes of thermoregulation. In particular, the thyroid hormones of the thyroid gland are thyroxine and triiodothyronine. With their increased synthesis, heat is often observed, but, on the contrary, it leads to a decrease in the overall temperature. In the initial stages, this is often the only symptom by which the development of the disease can be suspected.

A stable decrease in body temperature is also observed with adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease). Pathology develops slowly, may not show other signs for months or even several years.

Low hemoglobin in the blood

One of the most common causes of low temperature is iron deficiency anemia. It is characterized by a decrease in hemoglobin in the blood, and this in turn affects the functioning of the whole organism. Hemoglobin is responsible for the transport of oxygen to the cells, and if it is not enough, different degrees of hypoxia appear.

The person becomes lethargic, there is a general weakness, against which metabolic processes slow down. The low temperature is the result of these changes.

In addition, the level of hemoglobin can fall with various blood loss. In particular, anemia can develop in people with internal bleeding. If a significant blood loss occurs in a short period of time, the volume of circulating blood decreases, and this already affects heat transfer.

Other causes of low temperature

Among the dangerous conditions that require mandatory medical advice and treatment, one can single out such diseases with a low temperature:

• Radiation sickness.
• Severe intoxication.
• AIDS.
• Brain diseases, including tumors.
• Shock of any etiology (with massive blood loss, allergic reactions, traumatic and toxic shock).

However, the most common causes of temperatures below 35.5 ° C are an unhealthy lifestyle and a lack of vitamins. So, nutrition remains an important factor, if it is not enough, then the processes in the body will slow down, and as a result, thermoregulation will be disturbed. Therefore, with various strict diets, especially with a poor diet (deficiency of iodine, vitamin C, iron), low temperature without other symptoms is very common. If a person consumes less than 1200 calories per day, this will definitely affect thermoregulation.

Another common cause of such a temperature is overwork, stress, lack of sleep. It is especially characteristic of chronic fatigue syndrome. The body goes into a sparing mode of functioning, metabolic processes slow down in the body and, of course, this affects heat transfer.

Since temperature is only a symptom of various disorders in the body, it is best to consider it in combination with other signs of illness. It is the general picture of a person’s condition that can tell what kind of disease develops and how dangerous it is.

An increase in temperature is often observed with various ailments. However, there are characteristic combinations of symptoms that appear in patients with specific diagnoses.

Temperature and pain

In the event that, with pain in the abdomen, the temperature is above 37.5 ° C, this may indicate serious violations of the gastrointestinal tract. In particular, this is observed with intestinal obstruction. In addition, a combination of symptoms is characteristic of the development of appendicitis. Therefore, if the pain is localized in the right hypochondrium, it is difficult for a person to pull his legs to his chest, there is a loss of appetite and cold sweat, an ambulance should be called immediately. A complication of appendicitis, peritonitis, is also accompanied by persistent fever.

Other causes of a combination of abdominal pain and temperature:

• Pyelonephritis.
• Acute pancreatitis.
• Bacterial bowel disease.

If the temperature rises against the background of pain in the head, this most often indicates a general intoxication of the body and is observed in such diseases:

• Influenza and other SARS.
• Angina, scarlet fever.
• Encephalitis.
• Meningitis.

Pain in the joints and muscles, discomfort in the eyeballs are symptoms of a temperature above 39 ° C. In such conditions, it is recommended to take an antipyretic.

An elevated temperature against the background of diarrhea is a clear sign of a bacterial infection of the gastrointestinal tract. Among intestinal infections with such symptoms:

• Salmonellosis.
• Cholera.
• Botulism.
• Dysentery.

The cause of the temperature against the background of diarrhea can also be severe food poisoning. The combination of such symptoms is very dangerous for health, so self-medication in such cases is unacceptable. It is urgent to call an ambulance and, if necessary, agree to hospitalization. This is especially true if the child is sick.

Temperature and diarrhea are factors that contribute to dehydration. And with their combination, fluid loss by the body can become critical in a fairly short period. Therefore, in the event that it is not possible to adequately compensate for the lack of fluid by drinking (for example, a person has vomiting or diarrhea itself is pronounced), the patient is injected with solutions intravenously in a hospital. Without it, dehydration can lead to serious consequences, damage to organs and even death.

Temperature and nausea

In some cases, nausea may be due to fever. Due to intense heat, weakness develops, pressure decreases, dizziness occurs, and this is what causes slight nausea as a result. In this state, if the temperature is above 39 ° C, it must be brought down. The combination of symptoms may appear in the first days of the flu and be caused by severe intoxication of the body.

One of the causes of nausea and fever during pregnancy is toxicosis. But in this case, values ​​​​higher than subfebrile (up to 38 ° C) are rarely observed.

In the event that nausea is accompanied by other disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (for example, pain, diarrhea or, conversely, constipation), simply bringing down the temperature is not enough. This combination of symptoms can indicate serious diseases of the internal organs. Among them:

• Viral hepatitis and other liver damage.
• Acute appendicitis.
• Peritonitis.
• Inflammation of the kidneys.
• Acute pancreatitis.
• Intestinal obstruction (accompanied by constipation).

In addition, fever and nausea are often observed against the background of intoxication with stale food, alcohol or drugs. And one of the most dangerous diagnoses with these symptoms is meningitis. All of the listed diseases and conditions require a mandatory consultation with a doctor.

In the event that vomiting occurs against the background of temperature, it is very important to compensate for the loss of fluid. Children with this combination of symptoms are most often referred for inpatient treatment.

An increase in blood pressure is a common symptom of fever. Heat affects hemodynamics - patients have an increased heart rate, and blood begins to move faster through the vessels, they expand, and this can affect blood pressure. However, such changes cannot cause severe hypertension, more often the rates do not exceed 140/90 mm Hg. Art., observed in patients with a fever of 38.5 ° C and above, disappear as soon as the temperature stabilizes.

In some cases, a high temperature, on the contrary, is characterized by a decrease in pressure. There is no need to treat this condition, as the indicators return to normal after the fever subsides.

At the same time, for hypertensive patients, any, even a slight fever, can threaten with serious consequences. Therefore, they should consult with their doctor and, if necessary, take antipyretics already at rates of 37.5 ° C (especially when it comes to older people).

Pressure and temperature is a dangerous combination for patients with such diseases:

• Coronary artery disease. Cardiologists note that this combination of symptoms sometimes accompanies myocardial infarction. Moreover, in this case, the temperature rises slightly, may be within the framework of subfebrile indicators.
• Heart failure.
• Arrhythmias.
• Atherosclerosis.
• Diabetes.

In the event that low pressure and temperature in the subfebrile range last for a long time, this may be a sign of oncopathology. However, not all oncologists agree with this statement, and the symptoms themselves should simply become the reason for a full-fledged examination of a person.

Low pressure and low temperature are a common combination. Such symptoms are especially characteristic with low hemoglobin, chronic fatigue, blood loss, and nervous disorders.

Temperature without other symptoms

An elevated or decreased temperature without symptoms characteristic of acute infections should be the reason for a mandatory medical examination. Violations can talk about such diseases:

• Chronic pyelonephritis.
• Tuberculosis.
• Malignant and benign tumors.
• Organ infarcts (tissue necrosis).
• Blood diseases.
• Thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism.
• Allergic reactions.
• Rheumatoid arthritis at an early stage.
• Violations of the brain, in particular, the hypothalamus.
• Mental disorders.

Temperature without other symptoms also occurs against the background of overwork, stress, after prolonged physical activity, overheating or hypothermia. But in these cases, the indicators stabilize. If we are talking about serious diseases, the temperature without symptoms will be quite stable, after normalization, it will rise or fall again over time. Sometimes hypothermia or hyperemia is observed in a patient for several months.

An elevated temperature can cause significant discomfort, and in some cases even be life-threatening. Therefore, any person needs to know what to do with a fever and how to bring down the temperature correctly.

When to bring down the temperature

Not always, if the temperature has risen, it needs to be brought back to normal. The fact is that with infections and other lesions of the body, he himself begins to produce pyrogens, which cause fever. High temperature helps the immune system fight antigens, in particular:

• The synthesis of interferon, a protein that protects cells from viruses, is activated.
• The production of antibodies that destroy antigens is activated.
• The process of phagocytosis is accelerated - the absorption of foreign bodies by phagocyte cells.
• Reduced physical activity and appetite, which means that the body can spend more energy to fight infection.
• Most bacteria and viruses thrive best at normal temperatures, which are typical of the human body. With its increase, some microorganisms die.

Therefore, before deciding to “bring down the temperature”, you need to remember that a fever helps the body recover. However, there are still situations in which the heat must be removed. Among them:

• Temperature above 39°C.
• Any temperature at which there is a serious deterioration in the condition - nausea, dizziness, and so on.
• Febrile convulsions in children (any fever above 37 ° C is knocked down).
• In the presence of concomitant neurological diagnoses.
• People with diseases of the heart and blood vessels, with diabetes.

Air, humidity and other parameters in the room

There are many ways to lower the temperature. But the first task should always be to normalize the air parameters in the room where the patient is located. This is especially important for children of the first years of life, and critical for infants. The fact is that the child's sweating system is still poorly developed and therefore thermoregulation is carried out to a greater extent through breathing. The baby inhales cool air, which cools his lungs and the blood in them, and exhales warm air. In the event that the room is too warm, this process is inefficient.

The humidity in the room is also important. The fact is that the humidity of the exhaled air normally approaches 100%. At a temperature, breathing quickens and if the room is too dry, a person additionally loses water through breathing. In addition, the mucous membranes dry up, congestion develops in the bronchi and lungs.

Therefore, the ideal parameters in the room where the patient with fever is located are:

• The air temperature is 19-22°C.
• Humidity - 40-60%.

In the event that you need to quickly bring down the temperature, you can use antipyretics. They are taken symptomatically, which means that as soon as the symptom passes or becomes less pronounced, the medication is stopped. Drinking antipyretics throughout the disease for prevention is unacceptable.

One of the main conditions for the successful action of drugs in this group is drinking plenty of water.

The main antipyretics:

• Paracetamol.

It is actively prescribed for adults and children, it is considered a first-line drug. However, recent studies, in particular those conducted by the American organization FDA, have shown that if the drug is taken uncontrolled, paracetamol can cause serious liver damage. Paracetamol helps well if the temperature does not exceed 38 ° C, but in extreme heat it may not work.

• Ibuprofen.

One of the key non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for fever. Designed for adults and children.

• Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid).

For a long time it was the main drug of the NSAID category, but over the past decades, its association with severe kidney and liver damage (with overdose) has been proven. Also, researchers believe that taking aspirin in children can cause the development of Reye's syndrome (pathogenic encephalopathy), so at the moment the drug is not used in pediatrics.

• Nimesulide (nimesil, nise).

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent of the latest generation. Contraindicated in children.

• Analgin.

Today it is practically not used as an antipyretic, but it can still relieve fever.

The temperature can also be brought down with the help of folk remedies. Among the most common and simple ways are decoctions of herbs and berries. Drinking plenty of fluids is always recommended when the temperature is high, as it helps to improve perspiration and reduces the risk of dehydration.

Among the most popular herbs and berries that are used for fever are:

• Raspberries, including leaves.
• Black currant.
• Sea buckthorn.
• Cowberry.
• Linden.
• Chamomile.

To normalize the temperature, a hypertonic solution will also help. It is prepared from ordinary boiled water and salt - two teaspoons of salt are taken for 1 glass of liquid. Such a drink helps cells retain water and is great if the temperature manifests itself against the background of vomiting and diarrhea.

• Newborns - no more than 30 ml.
• From 6 months to 1 year - 100 ml.
• Up to 3 years - 200 ml.
• Up to 5 years - 300 ml.
• Over 6 years old - 0.5 l.

Ice can also be used for fever symptoms. But it must be used very carefully, since a sharp cooling of the skin can lead to vasospasm and the development of white fever. Ice is placed in a bag or placed on a piece of cloth and only in this form is applied to the body. Wiping with a towel dipped in cold water can be a good alternative. In the event that it is not possible to bring down the temperature, antipyretics do not work, and folk remedies do not help, you need to urgently call an ambulance.

How to raise the temperature

If the body temperature drops below 35.5 ° C, a person feels weak and unwell, you can increase it in the following ways:

• Warm plentiful drink. Well helps tea with honey, rosehip broth.
• Liquid warm soups and broths.
• Warm clothes.
• Covering with several blankets, for greater effect, you can use a heating pad.
• Hot bath. Can be supplemented with essential oils of coniferous trees (fir, spruce, pine).
• Exercise stress. A few intense exercises will help improve circulation and increase body temperature.

If the temperature stays below 36°C for a long time, you should consult a doctor. And after finding out the cause of such a symptom, the specialist will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

In some cases, a high temperature can pose a serious threat to health, and then you simply cannot do without the help of doctors. An ambulance must be called in such cases:

• Temperature 39.5°C or higher.
• A sharp increase in temperature and the inability to bring it down with antipyretic and other methods.
• Against the background of temperature, diarrhea or vomiting is observed.
• Fever is accompanied by difficulty breathing.
• There are severe pains in any part of the body.
• There are signs of dehydration: dry mucous membranes, pallor, severe weakness, dark urine or no urination.
• High blood pressure and temperature above 38°C.
• The fever is accompanied by a rash. Especially dangerous is a red rash that does not disappear with pressure - a sign of a meningococcal infection.

Fever or a decrease in temperature is an important signal of the body about diseases. This symptom should always be given due attention and try to fully understand its causes, and not just eliminate it with the help of drugs and other methods. But at the same time, one should not forget that normal temperature is an individual concept and not everyone corresponds to the well-known indicator of 36.6 ° C.