Can you take a bath during fever?
During the rainy season and changing weather cases of dengue malaria viral fever typhoid and other illnesses often increase.
When people develop a fever many wonder whether taking a bath could make their condition worse.
Health experts say that taking a bath during fever is generally safe. A bath with lukewarm water can help the body feel more comfortable and may temporarily reduce body temperature.
However the water should not be extremely hot or cold.
Avoid very cold water
Experts advise against bathing with ice-cold or very cold water during a fever. Sudden exposure to cold water can cause shivering. This may make the body work harder to produce heat and can increase discomfort.
Very hot water should also be avoided. It can raise body temperature and may make weakness and tiredness worse.
Do not use alcohol on the skin
Some people use alcohol or spirit on the skin to try to lower fever. Health experts do not recommend this method. Alcohol can be absorbed through the skin and may cause harmful effects.
It should especially never be used on children for this purpose.
What should you do during a fever?
Fever is usually not a disease itself. It is often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. Therefore it is important to find and treat the cause of the fever instead of only trying to lower the temperature.
Drink plenty of fluids during a fever to prevent dehydration. Water, ORS coconut water soup and other suitable drinks can help. Wear light comfortable clothes and make sure the room has good airflow.
If a full bath feels difficult you can gently clean the body with a soft cloth dipped in lukewarm water.
Eating light and easily digestible foods such as porridge, khichdi, and other soft foods may also help the body recover.
When should you see a doctor?
A mild fever may improve with rest enough fluids and medicines recommended by a doctor.
However medical help should be sought if the fever lasts for more than two to three days or is accompanied by confusion breathing problems severe headache repeated vomiting unusual skin rashes, or other serious symptoms.
A baby under three months old with a fever should be examined by a doctor immediately.
Overall taking a lukewarm bath during fever is usually not a problem. Staying hydrated, getting enough rest eating light food and finding the actual cause of the fever are much more important for recovery.