What Causes Viral Fever In Babies

Are you experiencing running a temperature and feeling drained out? You might be suffering from viral fever. Viral fever is a common condition where an individual experiences a sudden rise in temperature that is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as cough, cold, body aches, and fatigue. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about viral fever: from its symptoms, causes, types, diagnosis to its treatment, so let’s get started!

Symptoms of Viral Fever

Viral fever impacts the immune system and can manifest in various ways. The symptoms may include – headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, body ache, runny nose, sore throat, chills, and fever. The temperature of the body usually ranges from 102 - 104 degrees Fahrenheit and may last for up to five days. The sudden onset of the condition may take two to three days to fully manifest, and the person may feel drained out and weak. The symptoms may vary from person to person based on the strength of their immune system and the type of virus that has infected them.

Causes of Viral Fever

Viral fevers are caused by various viruses that are challenging to diagnose because their symptoms overlap with other illnesses. The most common viruses that cause viral fever are the influenza virus, dengue virus, chikungunya virus, and the Zika virus. These viruses usually spread through direct contact or via contaminated surfaces or objects. One can also develop viral fever through exposure to an infected person's respiratory droplets or through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids.

Types of Viral Fever

There are many types of viral fevers, and they differ from one another based on the type of virus and their symptoms. The most common types of viral fever are Dengue fever, Zika fever, Ebola fever, and H1N1 flu. Dengue fever is caused by the bite of an infected mosquito, and its symptoms include a high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and skin rash. Zika fever is transmitted by mosquitoes, and it causes symptoms such as fever, rash, headache, and joint pain. Ebola fever is a severe and often fatal disease that causes fever, body aches, weakness, and bleeding. H1N1 flu, commonly referred to as Swine Flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that spreads from person to person and causes symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.

Diagnosing Viral Fever

Diagnosing viral fever requires a thorough examination by a healthcare professional who may also advise certain blood tests to confirm the presence of a virus. The healthcare provider will monitor the patient's physical condition and symptoms while also evaluating their blood and urine test reports to determine the cause of the fever. A proper evaluation is necessary to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. Misdiagnosis can lead to poor outcomes, putting the patient's health at risk.

Treating Viral Fever

Treating viral fever primarily involves managing its symptoms, as there is no known cure for viral infections. The primary mode of treatment for viral fever is to increase fluid intake, get adequate rest, and manage the symptoms as they present themselves. Over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen can reduce fever and also alleviate other symptoms such as pain and headache. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to manage the symptoms, especially for patients who experience complications such as dehydration.

In conclusion, viral fevers are a common condition that affects many individuals from time to time. It is essential to be aware of its symptoms, causes, types, diagnosis, and treatment to be equipped appropriately to identify and manage the condition. Proper rest, hydration, and symptom management can help in a speedy recovery and prevent further complications.