Care Area
Fever, cough & infection
Fever, cold, cough and throat infections are the most common reasons people visit a general physician. Most are caused by viruses and settle on their own, but some need treatment or point to something more serious — which is where a proper assessment helps.
Understanding fever & infections
Fever is the body's natural response to infection — a sign that the immune system is working, not a disease in itself. Most fevers from colds, flu and seasonal viruses settle within a few days with rest and fluids.
Coughs and colds are usually viral and do not need antibiotics. Bacterial infections of the throat, chest or urinary tract are different and may need a prescription, so it is important not to self-medicate. The doctor's role is to tell the two apart and treat only what needs treating.
Common signs & symptoms
- Raised temperature, chills or sweating
- Sore throat or hoarse voice
- Runny or blocked nose
- Dry cough or cough with phlegm
- Body ache and headache
- Tiredness and reduced appetite
How to take care
Rest and sleep give the body the energy it needs to fight infection. Drink plenty of water, soups and warm fluids to stay hydrated, especially when there is fever or sweating.
Paracetamol can be used for fever and body ache as advised. Steam inhalation and warm salt-water gargles ease a blocked nose and sore throat. Eat light, easily digestible food, and stay home while you are infectious so you do not pass it on.
What to do
- Measure and note your temperature through the day
- Drink water, ORS and warm fluids regularly
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Complete the full course of any prescribed antibiotic
What to avoid
- Don't take antibiotics on your own for every cold or cough
- Don't stop a prescribed medicine the moment you feel better
- Don't ignore breathing difficulty or chest pain
- Avoid smoking and exposure to cold, dusty air
- Don't share towels, glasses or utensils while unwell
When to see the doctor
See a doctor urgently if fever lasts more than three days or crosses 103°F, or if there is breathing difficulty, chest pain, blood in the cough, severe drowsiness or confusion, repeated vomiting, or you are unable to keep fluids down.
Consult
Talk to Dr Ajit Kishor about fever, cough & infections
Monika Niwaas, opposite Patna College, near Razza High School, Annie Besant Road, Patna 800004, Bihar.