What to do if fever persists in acute upper respiratory tract infection
Sep 21, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
For persistent fever due to acute upper respiratory tract infection, relief can be achieved by rehydrating, gargling with warm water, wiping the body with lukewarm water, soaking the feet in hot water, and using medication. Acute upper respiratory tract infection may be accompanied by sore throat and pharyngeal discomfort. Gargling with warm saline solution can alleviate sore throat and pharyngeal inflammation, reduce discomfort, and help eliminate viruses from the mouth and throat.
In general, for persistent fever caused by acute upper respiratory tract infection, relief can be achieved through rehydration, gargling with warm water, wiping the body with warm water, soaking feet in hot water, and medication. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Rehydration
Drinking plenty of fluids during fever not only replenishes lost liquids but also promotes sweating and urination, helping eliminate toxins and metabolic waste from the body, thereby facilitating faster recovery.
2. Gargling with Warm Water
Acute upper respiratory tract infection may be accompanied by sore throat and pharyngeal discomfort. Gargling with warm saline solution can alleviate throat pain and inflammation, reduce discomfort, and help clear viruses from the mouth and pharynx.
3. Wiping the Body with Warm Water
Patients may choose to wipe their bodies with warm water, which effectively reduces body temperature. Use a towel soaked in warm water at 27–37°C to wipe skin folds such as the neck, armpits, elbows, and groin areas.
4. Soaking Feet in Hot Water
Soaking feet in hot water is a traditional method to relieve fever symptoms. It helps dilate blood vessels, improve circulation, and promote heat dissipation to reduce elevated body temperature. Care should be taken to control the water temperature to avoid scalding.
5. Medication
For patients with acute upper respiratory tract infection who have significant symptoms such as cough and sputum production, medications like pentoxifylline citrate tablets or compound licorice tablets may be used for treatment.
When fever persists due to acute upper respiratory tract infection, timely symptomatic management is recommended to prevent worsening of symptoms.
