by Karen Loudermilk

Created on: March 31, 2010

The body has several ways of fighting off unwanted pathogens. We have the white blood count, that increases in levels of the blood and goes to the source of infection to fight it off. Our immune system plays a big part, and so does a fever. A fever can be good at times. Its one of the bodies defenses. There are times when a fever is not so good.

In the Infants and elderly especially, you have to be careful of fevers. These are both 2 groups of people that are more susceptible to complications. For the most part both groups are usually looked after by someone else.

When a fever is not so good. There is the obvious, like when you have had some sort of injury, minor like bee sting or bug bite. if it is red and swollen at the site, and warm to the touch around the wound. That could be OK to a point but then if you see red streaks. its not healing and the fever extends to the whole body, that is not good. There could be some sepsis there or blood poisoning.

When infants are certain ages and you are going through the threat of child hood diseases, you have to watch any high fever of unknown origin. Even with vaccination there is in some still the threat of measles chicken pocks. Any rashes followed by fever, or vice verso should be checked out. There is always the dreaded threat of meningitis when children are in day care and schools. This is the inflammation of the meninges around the brain causing swelling and pressure in the brain.Always ask and know what is going on around your kids as much as possible. This is life threatening hits fast and spreads quick.

When you are having pain and general malaise or not feeling well, and start a fever beware of that. especially if the pain gets worse get it checked out. There is gallbladder disease or appendesitis that starts this way.

If you are coming back from visiting a different country and start a fever for  no reason. it's better safe than sorry.

After home from any kind of surgery its been a few days, and fever starts. You need to call your Dr. immediately. There can be many complications from surgery. Always be sure to check your temp. if not feeling well after you come home.

It's better safe than sorry any time you question a fever have it checked out.

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