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Viral Fever: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Viral fever is a common condition characterized by a rise in body temperature, usually above 103°F (39°C), caused by viral infections. It's essential to recognize the symptoms, understand the causes, and take preventive measures to manage and treat viral fever effectively.


*Symptoms of Viral Fever*


- Fever

- Runny nose

- Headache

- High body temperature

- Muscle pains

- Fatigue and weakness

- Eye redness

- Sweating

- Dehydration

- Loss of appetite

- Inflammation of the pharynx and sore throat

- Skin rashes and chest congestion

- Nausea and vomiting

- Painful tonsils and cough

- Diarrhea


*Causes of Viral Fever*


- Consuming contaminated food or water

- Exposure to certain virus families

- Touching contaminated surfaces

- Low immunity

- Direct contact with bodily fluids

- Mosquito-borne diseases


*Types of Viral Fever*


- Exanthematous viral fever (characterized by a rash or eruption on the skin)

- Viral gastroenteritis (primarily affecting the intestines)

- Respiratory viral fever (targeting the respiratory system)


*Complications of Viral Fever*


- Kidney failure

- Dehydration

- Seizures

- Liver failure

- Nervous system malfunctions

- Respiratory complications


*Prevention and Treatment*


- Hand hygiene

- Social distancing

- Surface cleanliness

- Protection against mosquito bites

- Vaccination

- Antiviral medications

- Hydration

- Lukewarm baths and damp cloths

- Over-the-counter medicines

- Adequate rest

- Nutrient-dense diet


*Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)*


Q1. How long does viral fever last?

A1. A typical viral fever lasts for about 3-7 days.


Q2. Can viral fever come back after 2 days?

A2. Yes, it's possible if your body hasn't completely eradicated the virus.


Q3. Which medicine is best for viral fever?

A3. Paracetamol is a commonly used medication to alleviate symptoms of fever.


Q4. Are antibiotics good for viral fever?

A4. No, antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.


Q5. Why does viral fever increase at night?

A5. Due to the natural drop in cortisol levels during the night, the anti-inflammatory response of the body also drops, making inflammatory processes like fever more pronounced.


Q6. Can we take a bath in viral fever?

A6. Yes, a lukewarm bath can help reduce body temperature and provide relief.


Q7. How to increase platelet count in viral fever?

A7. Eating foods rich in vitamins A, B9 (folate), C, and K may support platelet production.


Q8. What are the levels of symptoms for viral fever?

A8. Viral fever symptoms can be defined in three levels: low severity, medium severity, and high severity.

By  Dr M Khalid Munir , MBBS, Cert in diabetes ( Univ of Copenhagen). Diabetes specialist, JBI Hospital, Nanal Nagar, Hyderabad. Ex consultant Kamineni wockhardt hospital, Hyderabad. For in person consultation or online video consultation, Whatsapp 9959098255



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