An increase in body temperature has been known, since ancient times, to be associated with
infection and inflammation. Since a febrile response is highly conserved in
nature (even so-called cold blooded animals move to warmer places when they
become ill) it would seem important that we devote more attention to this
important response. Having a fever might be uncomfortable but research has been
showing that having a fever is part of a efficient immune response. We had
previously thought that the microbes that infect us simply can’t replicate as
well when we have fevers, but new research also suggests that the immune system
might be temporarily enhanced functionally when our temperatures rise with
fever. Although very high body temperature is dangerous and should be
controlled, new research shows that we may need to reconsider how and when we
treat most mild fevers.
MAKING SENSE OF YOUR
FLU SYMPTOMS
Cold and flu symptoms are not just annoyances that can keep you
on the couch all day; they, in fact, indicate what your immune system is doing
to fight off the infection.
A runny nose helps to trap and wash the germs from the nose and
sinuses. All mucus discharges are in fact natures way of eradicating germs.
Within a few days of a viral infection, the fluid from a runny
nose may change colour from clear to yellow to green. Mucus is designed by
nature to trap offending viruses, which are then efficiently and quickly
expelled from the body through coughing and sneezing.
A great number of people have misunderstood fever and believe
that fever can be dangerous, especially when fever occurs in a child. If you
are still under the impression that having a fever of 100-101 is an indication
of a dangerous situation, relax! It’s not. It’s a healthy response. Viruses are
sensitive to temperature changes and cannot survive above normal body heat.
Your body uses fever to help destroy the virus just like our grandmothers
boiled water to kill germs. Unfortunately, many parents panic, not realising
that their child’s temperature is ideal to accomplish healing.
Contrary to popular belief, the best course of action is usually
little or no action when it comes to a mild fever. Rather than working against
it, one should try to work with it and allow it to run its course. The only
time you need to worry or seek medical attention is if it rises very high, very
fast. This could be a sign of an infection too serious for your body to handle.
To support your fever, we often recommend eating foods like
broths and water. Once the fever has been broken, one can start eating solid
food again. Fever is also best supported with plenty of good old-fashioned
rest.
You might experience sore muscles with the flu as it is also a
product of you body’s immune response. The immune system pulls proteins from
muscles, leaving your muscles achy.
These programs are in fact designed by nature to help the
individual cope. These are meaningful biological programs of nature to help you
recover so keep smiling even when you are feeling down with flu realising that
after all its natures way of healing you.
The
writers are consultants at VitaNova Clinics, Goa
