How come when you're sick, you want to bring down your fever?

Answer 1

Good Question. The reason why we need to bring down a fever, is because, contrary to the belief that "waiting out a fever" (sweating it out) is a good option, If you stay without taking fever reducers or using a cool compress when you have a temperature, that temperature can rise to a level that can compromise your internal organs.

If a person gets a fever that is above 107 degrees, they can literally die--JUST from having a fever! So in order to keep the internal organs at a level where they can function normally, it is imparitive to bring a fever down, if you have one. Though most slight temperatures will resolve themselves, one cannot allow a fever to get out of hand, thus it is best to reduce a fever via cool compress or medication.

Also keep in mind when using medication, many common fever reducers have adverse affects if used too often, for example, Acetomenophine (Tylenol), if used more than the usual dose per 24 hour period, can result in serious damage of the liver, and over-use of Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can actually result in heart problems--so be sure to speak to your own doctor about any medical conditions you may already have.

It is best, when using medications to alternate...meaning take tylenol for the first 4-6hour block and advil for the next, and so on.

Answer 2

Fever is suppose to help fight infection with the high temps; but, it also makes us uncomfortable. It can also become dangerous and cause other damage to our bodies/brain. So...we try to bring it down.

Answer 3

High grade fevers can cause serious issues-even death!!!!

Answer 4

high prolonged fevers can damage the heart....

Answer 5

ah... i guess it's because you can die from a high fever