3 Tips for Dealing with a Fever During the Holidays



Cooler weather around the holidays means that your house is probably closed up for the winter. Every door and window is shut. Heaters are working their magic on your household, but this cozy scenario can lead to illness. Germs brought in from the outside have nowhere to go but into your body. If you develop a fever during the holidays, consider these tips to move past it.

Take Advantage of Restful Periods

Around the holidays, you probably have a lot of time off. Your entire family may be on vacation. Take advantage of any restful periods during this time. The nights are long so sleep for as much as possible. Fevers can be fought off when your body heals during rest. Heading out to shop or cooking in the kitchen creates too much stress on the body. Sleep and relaxation are the best weapons against high temperatures so that germs don't overwhelm you.

Pull Out Mom's Old Recipes

It's been proven among scientific circles that chicken soup is a useful tool against rising temperatures. Slow boil some chicken with onion, garlic and spices. The cooked meat and broth create a soothing meal for your body. Scientists believe that the nutrients founds in chicken broth can boost your immune system while calming the body with a warm meal. Sip on the broth when you aren't necessarily hungry to continually benefit from the nutrients.

Let It Run Its Course

Your high temperature is a tool used by the human body in order to fight off a germ or infection. Taking heavy doses of painkillers will only prolong your ailment. If the temperature is below 100 or 101 degrees Fahrenheit, allow it to run its course. Keep track of the temperature until it breaks. A temperature running higher than 101 degrees F. is cause for concern, however. An infection may be complicating the situation. This temperature must be dealt with by a professional. It can actually be hazardous if a temperature rises too high.

Dealing with a fever in children is slightly different than when you treat yourself. If you're taking care of the grandchildren, keep their doctor's number handy. Fevers in young children should be checked by a professional to ensure that their health isn't severely compromised. Fevers are useful when they're carefully monitored and controlled.