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Symptoms, Causes, and Foods to avoid in Viral Fever

Updated on 21 July 2022

Symptoms, Causes, and Foods to avoid in Viral Fever

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The collective term for fever that originates from different viral infections is known as viral fever. Typically, the temperature of a human body is around 37.1°C or 98.4°F. If the temperature goes above this value, one would have a fever. In some infections, viral fever tends to be a lower grade (<100°F) whereas, in others like dengue, it tends to be a higher grade (>100°F). 

Generally, symptoms of viral fever are acute and occur more commonly during seasonal changes. In the case of most viral infections, viral fever lasts for 3 to 5 days. However, in severe cases, it may last for up to 2 weeks. Viral fever itself isn’t a disease or an illness. It is more a sign of the viral infection persistent in the body. Individuals having weak immune systems, kids, and older people are more prone to viral fevers.

Symptoms of Viral Fever

Viral fever symptoms vary from patient to patient and with the type of viral infection. Some common symptoms include:

  • High-grade fever that may go up to 103° F or 104°F

  • Sore throat

  • Muscle or joint pain that is mild to severe

  • Diarrhoea

  • Fatigue

  • Chills

  • Facial swelling

  • Appetite Loss

  • Headache

  • Runny nose

  • Dehydration

  • Vomiting/nausea

  • Dizziness

  • Redness/burning of eyes

  • Skin rashes

Some of these symptoms may also be present if one has a bacterial fever. Hence, it is best to consult a doctor at a critical care hospital in Hyderabad to determine whether it’s a bacterial or viral fever. 

What Causes Viral Fever?

The body produces pyrogens as a defence mechanism against viral antigens, which is what actually causes viral fever. Here are some causes to consider. 

  • When you come in close contact with a host (someone who has an active viral infection) or a carrier can result in the transmission of viral fever from one person to another. Keep in mind that someone who is not experiencing any symptoms of the viral fever could be carrying the virus, and can infect others.

  • The consumption of contaminated water can also cause viral fever.

  • The mini droplets of cough from an infected person can cause viral fever when inhaled.

  • It can also get transmitted by sharing drinks or food with an infected person.

  • Seasonal Flu is the highest contributor to causing Viral Fever.

  • Viral infections also get transmitted by insects and animals. For example, Chikungunya, dengue, Zika virus, and yellow fever are viral infections that get spread due to insects and animals.

Do’s for Fighting a Viral Fever

  • Take medication for viral fever as your doctor has prescribed - It is best to avoid self-medicating if you have a viral fever. You should consult your critical care doctor in Hyderabad and take medication as per their prescription. This is because you might have a fever due to a bacterial infection, in which case, you might need a different medication.

  • Get plenty of rest so that your body can fight the fever and help you get better sooner - If you don’t get enough rest, your body won’t be able to cope with the stress and you won’t get better sooner. If you continue with your normal routine, it can hamper your body’s attempt to fight the fever. Also, when you have a fever, you tend to get tired anyway, which is why adequate rest is a must.

  • Keep your body cool by applying a cloth to your forehead with lukewarm water or taking a sponge bath. This will help bring down the temperature of your body and help it cool down. This is necessary because the body temperature is high when you have a fever and it is important to bring it down.

  • Stay hydrated. Try to consume as many fluids as possible so that your body doesn’t become dehydrated and there are certain foods to avoid in viral fever. When you have a fever, your body tends to lose fluids easily, causing dehydration. Hence, it is important to increase the intake of fluids. You can also drink diluted juice, or clear soup if you find water boring. 

Don’ts of Fighting a Viral Fever

  • Avoid consuming caffeinated beverages, soda and alcohol if you have a fever as these beverages can cause dehydration, whereas it is important to stay hydrated if you have a fever.

  • Try to avoid covering your body in too many layers, unless you are feeling cold or shivering, as this might raise your body temperature. The aim is to bring the body’s temperature down and if you wear too many layers or stay covered in a blanket, the temperature might go up. 

  • Don’t starve yourself as your body needs nutrition and energy to fight off the fever and help you feel better. If you starve yourself, your immune system can become even weaker, since your metabolism increases due to a fever.

  • Don’t deprive yourself of sleep. When you have a fever, your immune system consumes a lot of energy, as it is trying to fight off the fever. Hence, it is recommended to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, so that you get enough rest as well as time to heal.

  • Avoid sharing your utensils, clothes, handkerchiefs, towels and other personal items as it might spread the infection to others who may come in contact with you. If anyone comes in contact with you or your items, they can also get infected as viral infections are contagious. Hence, it is best to stay in a separate room and have separate utensils and other items that no one else will use.

How to prevent Viral Fever? 

Preventing viral fever involves adopting a combination of personal hygiene practices and lifestyle choices. 

  • Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
  • Respiratory Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when sneezing or coughing to prevent the spread of droplets.
  • Vaccination: Stay up-to-date on recommended vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, to reduce the risk of viral infections.
  • Avoid Close Contact: Minimize contact with sick individuals and crowded places during outbreaks.
  • Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to boost immunity.
  • Adequate Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep to support your immune system.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help your body fight infections.
  • Regular Exercise: Engage in moderate exercise to enhance overall immunity.
  • Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques, as chronic stress can weaken the immune system.
  • Clean Environment: Keep your surroundings clean and sanitized, especially frequently touched surfaces.

Foods to Avoid During Viral Fever

While proper nutrition plays a vital role in supporting the immune system and aiding recovery, there is certain viral fever food to avoid to prevent further discomfort and aid the healing process.

  • Sugary Foods: Foods high in refined sugars, such as sweets, sugary beverages, and processed snacks, should be avoided. Excessive sugar intake can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off the viral infection.
  • Fried and Fatty Foods: Fried foods, including deep-fried snacks and greasy fast food, should be minimized. These foods are often high in unhealthy fats and can cause digestive issues and discomfort, making the recovery process more challenging.
  • Spicy and Irritating Foods: Spicy foods can irritate the throat and exacerbate coughing and soreness. Avoid consuming hot peppers, spicy sauces, and overly seasoned dishes during viral fever.
  • Dairy Products: Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, can thicken mucus and worsen congestion and respiratory symptoms. It is advisable to limit dairy consumption during the illness.
  • Caffeinated and Alcoholic Beverages: Beverages like coffee, tea, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages should be avoided as they can dehydrate the body and interfere with the healing process.

Foods to Include for a Speedy Recovery

While avoiding certain foods, it is equally important to focus on consuming nutrient-rich foods that support the immune system and aid recovery during viral fever.

  • Hydrating Foods: Drink plenty of fluids such as water, herbal teas, clear broths, and electrolyte-rich drinks to stay hydrated and flush out toxins from the body.
  • Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Include fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries, bell peppers, and leafy greens. Vitamin C helps boost the immune system and fights off infections.
  • Protein-Rich Foods: Consume lean sources of protein like poultry, fish, legumes, and tofu to support tissue repair and strengthen the immune system.
  • Warm and Soothing Foods: Opt for warm and easily digestible foods like soups, stews, and cooked vegetables. These provide nourishment while being gentle on the digestive system.
  • Garlic and Ginger: These ingredients have natural antimicrobial properties and can help alleviate symptoms of viral fever. Incorporate them into your meals or consume as herbal teas.

We hope you have a detailed notion of viral fever causes along with the do’s and don't s that one should follow for being safe. Be aware at all times and do not take the viral fever lightly. If you are experiencing some signs & symptoms, immediately consult your doctor at a viral fever treatment hospital in Hyderabad. With adequate rest, hydration, and a balanced diet, you can support your body's immune system and recover from viral fever effectively.

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