Azithromycin: Uses, Side Effects and Dosage

Viral fever is a prevalent condition that affects people of all ages and both genders. While most viral fevers are mild and less harmful, there are cases in which they become dangerous. It is essential to understand the symptoms, available treatments, preventive measures, and the factors that contribute to the illness. Only then does it become easy to keep your body away from such fevers.

Are you ready to know more about viral fever? Then, continue reading as we guide you through all the essential information about viral fever.

What is Viral Fever?

Viral fever refers to the rise in body temperature caused by viral infections and various other factors. Apart from viral infections, several conditions related to viral fever include dengue, influenza, and the common cold. These infections trigger the body’s immune response, leading to fever and other symptoms.

Viral Fever Symptoms to Watch for

Knowing the symptoms of viral fever at the earliest will help manage the illness effectively. A few prevalent symptoms include:

High body temperature (above 100.4°F or 38°C)

• Chills and sweating
• Body aches and headaches
• Fatigue and weakness
• Sore throat and cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Loss of appetite

In severe cases, symptoms like persistent vomiting, rashes, or breathing difficulties may indicate complications requiring immediate medical attention.

Viral Fever Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to viral fever. A few are:

• Weakened immunity
• Seasonal changes
• Staying close to infected people
• Viral infections (Flu, dengue, malaria, chikungunya)

Viral Fever Treatments

Most viral fevers subside with proper rest and medication, but it is also crucial to know a few other things that can help treat the illness.

• Hydration
• Medications
• Home remedies
• Rest

When will Viral Fever become a Significant Threat?

While most viral fevers are harmless and can be treated with medication, a few conditions can be dangerous. So, consult your doctor right away if you:

• Have a high fever above 103 degrees Fahrenheit that does not subside
• Face severe dehydration issues
• Come across neurological symptoms that are completely abnormal, like confusion and seizures.
• Identify secondary symptoms, such as pneumonia and sinusitis.

Viral Fever Prevention Tips

Prevention is better than a cure! This is something that everybody remembers forever. Just as the saying goes, it is essential to stay proactive against any illnesses. The following are a few viral fever prevention tips that you should know:

• Maintain proper hygiene
• Keep your immunity boosted
• Eat healthy food
• Avoid crowded places
• Stay vaccinated

Final Thoughts

For most people, viral fever is a common and temporary illness that typically subsides with time and the use of medication. However, ignoring the increasing symptoms of this viral fever will lead to serious issues. Stay informed, take proper precautions, and consult your doctor when required. Always remember that Health comes first!

Blood donation is one of the most selfless and significant ways to save lives. If you choose to donate blood for the first time, you may have many questions and concerns regarding the process and your health. In that case, do not worry; this guide has got you covered. Here in this guide, we have listed all the required details regarding blood donation preparations, recovery, etc. Keep reading to know more.

Why is Blood Donation Essential?

Every two seconds, someone globally requires blood. Blood donation is a significant requirement since the need for blood is enormous in cases of surgeries, chronic conditions, and emergencies that require immediate blood, like road accidents. Donating blood one time could save up to three lives. This proves that blood donation directly contributes to the survival of people in your society.

Blood Donation Eligibility

Before you commit to the blood donation process, you must meet your eligibility criteria. Also, the criteria might vary based on regions, but the standard requirements include:

• Good health
• Age requirement between 17-65 years old (In some places, they allow younger and older donors on certain conditions)
• Weight at least 50 kgs (110 lbs)
• No recent tattoos or piercings (within the last 6 months)

Make sure to check with your local blood donation center for eligibility and various other guidelines.

Tips to Prepare for Blood Donation

Preparation is essential to ensure a smooth blood donation process. So, consider the following before donating blood:

• Hydrate well
• Eat healthy meals
• Get a good night's sleep
• Bring ID and donor data

Blood Donation Process

Step 1: Registration

Initially, you will be asked to register by providing the required details, such as filling out the blood donor questionnaire, so that you can access your health and eligibility.

Step 2: Health Screening

Secondly, a brief health checkup will be conducted to monitor your blood pressure, hemoglobin levels, and temperature.

Step 3: Donation

Next is your blood donation process, which will take 8-10 minutes. Approximately 1 pint of blood will be collected from your body during this process, which will take about an hour from registration to blood donation.

Step 4: Post-donation care

After the blood donation, you'll be given refreshments to help you stay hydrated and regain your fluids.

How often can Blood Donation be done?

You can donate blood every 56 days (Whole Blood), every 7 days, up to 24 times a year(platelets), every 28 days (plasma)

Benefits of Blood Donation:

Saving Lives: Every blood donation made can save up to 3 lives, offering more critical support to patients who are undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments, or suffering from any traumatic injuries.

Health Screening: Blood donation involves a complete health checkup, which can help detect health risks like anaemia and high blood pressure.

Heart Health: Blood donations will reduce the iron content stored in the body, potentially decreasing the risk of heart diseases.  

Mental Well-being: Blood donation will improve emotional well-being by helping reduce stress and mental pressures.

Tips for a Better Blood Donation:

• Stay more hydrated
• Do avoid heavy exercising
• Keep your health in check

Final Thoughts

Embarking on your first blood donation journey is a noble step towards impacting the lives of others. By knowing more about the process and the benefits of donating blood in detail, you will ensure a good and safe blood donation journey. Remember, your blood donation journey not only helps those who are in need but also promotes your health and well-being.

 

Coughs generally have two types: productive coughs, which produce mucus and phlegm, and unproductive coughs, known as dry coughs.

A dry cough is a continuous cough that does not produce phlegm or mucus. It is commonly caused by discomfort in the airways. This dry cough could also be a cold, flu, allergies, or asthma symptom. Sometimes, a dry cough will be a symptom of severe conditions. However, a prolonged dry cough can affect your day-to-day life, particularly if it disturbs your sleep.

Now, keep reading to know more about dry cough in detail.

Common Causes of Dry Cough

A dry cough can be caused due to various reasons. A few include the following.

• Asthma or bronchitis
• GERD (Acid Reflux)
• Environmental irritants like pollution and Smoke
• Viral infections like the flu or a cold
• Allergic reactions due to pollen or dust

Home Remedies for Dry Cough

There are multiple home remedies available to reduce a dry cough. The following are a few that you can try to keep your cough under control:

• Honey and Warm Water: Helps soothe throat irritation
• Steam Inhalation: Helps ease inflammation and congestion
• Turmeric Milk: Acts as the best anti-inflammatory agent
• Ginger Tea: Reduces inflammation and fights infections
• Saltwater Gargle: Helps reduce throat discomfort

While these home remedies are helpful, you must consult your doctor and get expert advice if the symptoms persist for a long time. Seeing a doctor will help rule out the issue faster.

Choosing the Right Dry Cough Syrup

If you prefer a dry cough syrup, ensure it suits and works with your symptoms. Most dry cough syrups contain diphenhydramine or dextromethorphan, decreasing the cough reflex. However, do not self-medicate, particularly if you are unsure about your symptoms. Always consult a doctor before choosing a dry cough syrup, particularly for children, older people, or people with pre-existing conditions.

When Should You Consult a Doctor for a Dry Cough?

Here are a few signs that indicate it’s time to stop self-medicating and consult a doctor immediately:

• If the cough lasts more than 3 weeks
• If it gets worse than before
• If you feel chest pain, wheezing, or discomfort breathing
• If you notice fatigue and weight loss
• If you cough up blood

Knowing when to consult a doctor for a dry cough is crucial to avoid complications and ensure an easy diagnosis.

Whom to Consult for Dry Cough?

If you have a dry cough, you can consult a general physician, who will refer you to a pulmonologist if you need to get your lungs tested or if there are any chances of infections causing your dry cough.

Consulting the right specialist will help you treat a dry cough and identify the root cause of the cough.

Final Takeaway

A dry cough might seem less harmful at the early stages, but it is crucial to see a doctor when you feel like it increases or worsens over time. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics or suggest the right treatments to get you treated and avoid any complications due to dry cough. Never ignore the symptoms, and use the best medical facilities available. Do not hesitate to consult your doctors when necessary. Early action is one of the best treatments to keep your body healthy and illness-free.

During the summer season, heat-related illnesses are becoming increasingly common. In fact, many people experience heat cramps, dizziness, fainting, blurred vision, slurred speech, and confusion. If these symptoms are not addressed promptly, they can lead to Heat Stroke. Last year 2024, between March 1 and June 18, 110 people in India died from heat strokes, according to data from the Health Ministry. This article provides essential information on recognizing the symptoms of heat stroke, its causes, and the appropriate treatment to prevent fatalities.

What is Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke, or sunstroke, occurs when a person's body temperature rises quickly and cannot cool down. It is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles and can be fatal without prompt treatment. Generally, heat strokes are classified into two main types:

1. Exertional heat stroke:

     Intense physical activity in hot or humid conditions causes exertional heat stroke. It generally affects athletes, military personnel, and outdoor workers who engage in prolonged activities without adequate hydration or cooling breaks.

2. Non-exertional (classic) heat stroke:

     This type of stroke, also known as classic stroke, occurs during exposure to extended periods of hot environmental conditions, such as heat waves or long durations of high temperatures and humidity. Older adults, infants, and individuals with chronic medical conditions are vulnerable to this stroke.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke

The symptoms can vary based on the severity of the condition, but common symptoms include the following:

• 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher body temperature
• Behaviour changes such as agitation or aggression.
• Hot, dry skin occurs in cases of classic heat stroke.
• Flushed, sweaty skin occurs in classic heat stroke.
• Increased heart rate
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Muscle cramps or weakness

Causes of Heat Stroke

Several factors contribute to heat stroke, which include:

• Spending long hours in a hot and humid environment
• Dehydration results from inadequate fluid intake or excessive fluid loss
• Engaging in strenuous physical activity, especially in hot conditions
• Wearing too many clothes or tight-fitting garments can trap heat
• Chronic illnesses such as heart disease, respiratory conditions, obesity, and mental health disorders can increase vulnerability to heat stroke

Risk Factors of Heat Stroke

While anyone can suffer from heat stroke, certain factors can increase the risk:

• Age: Infants and people over 65 are less efficient at regulating body temperature.
• Chronic illnesses: heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, and obesity heighten susceptibility.
• Medications: Drugs that affect hydration and heat regulation raise the risk.
• Sudden exposure: Moving from a cooler climate to a much hotter one can shock the body.
• Lack of air conditioning: Living without cooling systems during heat waves increases danger.

Treatments of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that demands immediate medical attention to avoid severe complications or death. Treatment usually includes the following steps:

• Cooled IV fluids
• A cooling blanket
• An ice bath
• Medication to prevent seizures
• Supplemental oxygen
• A cold-water lavage

Conclusion

As temperatures continue to rise, preventing yourself from heat stroke is more important than ever. To protect yourself from heat stroke, stay hydrated, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take frequent breaks in the shade. If you or someone you know shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, do not delay. Look for immediate care and consult a healthcare professional for proper treatment.