Fever

A fever helps fight infection by creating an environment that is less conducive to the growth of bacterial and viral organisms. Chemicals released into the bloodstream signal your body's temperature regulators to increase your body temperature. Muscles shiver to generate heat. Normal body temperature is thought to range from 97o to 100o F.

If you have ruled out factors other than illness that can cause a fever, it is then important to determine if you are dehydrated or if your fever is dangerously high. Since a fever is one of your body's natural healing mechanisms, you may not want to reduce it unless you are uncomfortable or it is too high.

Self care for nasal congestion

Stay away from places where people smoke. If you smoke, stop smoking.

Drink at least six glasses (8 oz.) of fluid per day. Water, hot tea with honey and/or lemon, soup, and juice are all good choices.

Get extra rest.

You may want to avoid caffeinated products while taking decongestants, since they are both stimulants.

Breathe in moist heat in the shower or from a vaporizer to break up congestion.

Saline nasal sprays may help clear your nose and sinuses.

Decongestants, which contain an active ingredient such as pseudoephrine (e.g. Sudafed®), can dry up mucus in the head, chest, and nose. Decongestants shrink mucus membranes and open nasal passages.

If you have a cold, it may be contagious. Cover your mouth when sneezing to prevent the spread of infection.

Seek medical care if...

The fever is 1010 or higher that persists for more than two days.

The congestion does not clear up within two to three weeks.

You cough up or sneeze mucus that is green, brown, or bloody.

Your sinuses are tender and painful.

You have allergy symptoms that persist for more than three weeks. Fatigue and muscle aches are more severe with the flu. Click here for more information about the flu.