Wondering about viral fever? It indicates a temperature increase, runny nose, coughing bouts, and other issues which last for at least two days or more. Here is the lowdown on viral fever, its symptoms, causes, and remedies.
What is the Meaning of Viral Fever?
Viral fever is a specific type of fever that happens due to an underlying illness or virus. Whenever the body temperature exceeds the normal level, i.e. 98.6°F, it can be diagnosed as fever. This is a reaction towards the body combating any bacterial or viral infections. These fevers are commonly observed in people in the monsoon season and may be low/high-grade in nature. Low-grade fevers are caused by viral infections such as the common cold, while high-grade fever is caused due to infections such as dengue.
Viral fever usually lasts for 4-5 days till a maximum period of 14 days. Although it is not perceived as a major ailment, it may indicate an inherent illness that you should not ignore to avoid health complications in the future. Hence, visiting a doctor is advisable if you have persistent fever for 2-3 days.
Viral fever symptoms
Some of the symptoms of viral fever include the following:
- Chills
- Fever
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Runny nose and nasal congestion
- Dehydration
- Weakness
- Vomiting or nausea
- Dizziness
- Appetite loss
- Joint or muscle pain
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Redness or burning of the eyes
- Face swelling
- Skin rashes
Doctors may advise to take blood tests to check the possibilities of bacterial infections in case any of these symptoms are visible.
Reasons for Viral Fever
Viral fever happens due to the entry of a virus into the body that infects the cells. Here are some of the probable causes for the ailment:
- Coming in close contact with an individual who is infected with the virus. The infected individual may be a carrier or may have symptoms of fever.
- Inhaling the virus from the air while breathing is another cause. An infected individual may cough or sneeze nearby and droplets may be released likewise.
- Sharing beverages or food with infected individuals may lead to fever. It is because the saliva of the person who is infected (which contains the virus) may enter the body.
- Fever may be caused due to insect or mosquito bites, if they are carrying viruses. Consumption of contaminated food may be another reason.
- Consumption of contaminated water may lead to fever, along with close contact with the bodily fluids of an individual infected with any virus.
Treatment of Viral Fever
Treating viral fever is a long-drawn process. Here are some remedies that you should make a note of:
- In many cases, the fever may vanish on its own, although medicines may be required for controlling your symptoms in the case of high-grade fever.
- OTC (over-the-counter) medicines may be necessary for the treatment of cough, cold, high temperature, and diarrhea.
- You may have to consume plenty of fluids to stay hydrated while ORS is also recommended for the maintenance of the electrolyte balance.
- Taking a lukewarm bath periodically is recommended for lowering high body temperatures.
- You will have to get adequate rest in order to give your body suitable time to heal.
If you are worried about the cost of treatments for viral fever, then you should know that they are covered under health insurance policies. Almost all health insurance plans cover the costs of treating complications or ailments arising from viral fever. You can cover the costs of OPD consultation, medicines, hospitalization, day care treatments, ambulance costs, diagnostic tests, and more. You can use a health insurance calculator to work out the premium that is payable for a certain coverage amount. Rest assured, knowing that you can get financial support for any medical complications or treatments.
