Want to know how to treat viral fever at home? There are several viral fever symptoms and signs that you should be aware of. At the outset, you should not depend only on an antibiotic for viral fever if it is not required. Take your doctor’s advice in this regard. There are several home remedies available for combating viral infection fevers and lowering their effects. Make sure to consult GPs whenever needed while choosing the right pediatrician for your kid if needed. Viral fever is any fever taking place owing to any viral infection. Viruses are little germs spreading easily from one individual to another. Whenever you contact any viral condition like the flu or cold, the immune system will respond by going into a flurry of activity. This response will sometimes involve raising the temperature of the body for making it less welcoming towards viruses and other germs. 

The usual body temperature remains around 98.6°F (37°C) for most individuals, and anything that is 1 degree above or even more than this threshold will be perceived as a fever. Viral illnesses do not respond to antibiotics, unlike bacterial infections, and instead, they simply have to run the entire course. This may require anytime between two days to a week or even more, based upon the infection type. While the virus is running its course, there are many things that you can do for helping in managing overall symptoms. 

Consulting the Doctor 

You should know when to consult the doctor. A high fever may be problematic for little children. Children between 0-3 months will have to see a doctor if the rectal temperature is around 100.4°F (38°C) or more. Children between 3-6 months will have to see doctors if rectal temperatures are above 102°F (39°C) and they are sleepy or irritable. Children between 6-24 months should visit doctors when rectal temperatures are higher than 102°F (39°C), which lasts for more than one day. If they have other symptoms like cough, rash and diarrhea, the doctor should be called at the earliest. For children of 2 years of age and older, the doctor should be called if they have a fever that repeatedly goes above 104°F (40°C). Medical advice should be obtained if the child has a fever and other symptoms include the following: 

• They seem irritable or lethargic. 
• Fever lasts more than 3 days. 
• Fever does not respond to medication. 
• They do not maintain eye contact with you. 
• They cannot keep their fluids down. 

Fever may be risky for adults in some scenarios. For fever that remains 103°F (39°C) or higher, see the doctor, particularly if you are not responding to any medication or lasts more than three days. Seek treatment if the fever comes with rash, severe headaches, stiff neck, sensitivity to bright light, breathing trouble, vomiting frequently, abdominal or chest pain and seizures or convulsions. 

Home Remedies for Viral Fever

Drinking Fluids 

A good remedy for viral fever is drinking ample fluids since the fever makes the body warmer than regular. This makes the body sweat more for cooling down, although it creates a fluid loss which may result in dehydration. You should try and consume as much as possible when you have such a viral fever for replenishing lost fluids. It can be water and also sports drinks, juice, soups, broths, decaffeinated tea and others. Toddlers and babies may consume a drink specially made with specific electrolytes. 

Getting Ample Rest 

Viral fever is an indicator that the body is fighting off infections. You should rest suitably and even if you cannot spend a day in bed, avoid physical activity as much as possible. Aim for 8-9 hours or more sleep every night. Relax during the day as well. 

Consuming OTC medication

OTC (over the counter) reducers of fever are sometimes good options for managing the same. Get a prescription from your doctor and temporarily check fever while lowering overall discomfort as well. Standard options include acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen, among others. 

Herbal Solutions 

Sometimes herbal solutions may work in fighting a viral fever. However, make sure that you consult your doctor beforehand. 

Moringa

This tropical plant comes with numerous medicinal and nutritional advantages. All parts of the plant are antibacterial agents. Research is still needed on how it can lower fever for human beings. Avoid taking this if you are pregnant or taking medication which is a substrate of cytochrome. 

Kudzu Root

The Kudzu Root is a herb that is used for traditional Chinese medicine, that comes with anti-inflammatory attributes while lowering pain. Avoid using if you consume tamoxifen, have any hormonal sensitive ailment or cancer and take methotrexate. Talk to your doctor if you already consume medication for diabetes. 

Remain Cool 

You can cool down by surrounding your body with cooler temperatures. However, do not overdo it and start shivering. You can sit in a lukewarm water bath, take a sponge bath with lukewarm water, wear clothing or light pyjamas, avoid using extra blankets, drink cool water or water at room temperature, eat popsicles and use a fan for ensuring proper air circulation.