Why do we get a fever when we get sick?

Fever: The Body’s Defense Mechanism Against Illness

When we fall ill, our bodies often respond with an increase in temperature, known as a fever. This fever serves as a crucial component of our immune system’s defense mechanism.

How Fever Works

Fever is a controlled increase in body temperature triggered by the brain. It occurs when the body’s immune system detects the presence of invading pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses.

By raising the body temperature, the immune system effectively creates an inhospitable environment for these pathogens. The higher temperature inhibits their growth and multiplication, making it easier for the immune system to combat the infection.

Immune Response

The immune system operates at its optimal efficiency within a specific temperature range. When body temperature rises due to a fever, immune cells become more active and effective.

White blood cells, which play a central role in fighting infection, increase their production and mobility at higher temperatures. They are better able to recognize and destroy invading pathogens.

Fever Threshold

The body’s thermostat, located in the brain, sets the threshold for fever. When the immune system sends signals indicating infection, the thermostat is reset to a higher temperature. This triggers a series of mechanisms to raise the body temperature.

Mechanisms of Fever

The body achieves fever by:

• Constricting blood vessels in the skin, reducing heat loss
• Shivering, which generates heat through muscle contractions
• Increasing metabolic rate, producing more heat as a byproduct
• Sweating, which evaporates and cools the body, resetting the thermostat to the desired higher temperature

Benefits of Fever

While a fever can cause discomfort, it plays a vital role in aiding the immune system. Some benefits of fever include:

• Inhibiting pathogen growth and multiplication
• Enhancing immune cell activity
• Reducing viral replication
• Stimulating the production of protective proteins

When to Seek Medical Attention

While fever is a common symptom of illness, it’s essential to seek medical attention if:

• The fever persists for more than three days
• The fever is accompanied by severe symptoms, such as confusion, seizures, or difficulty breathing
• The fever is accompanied by a rash or vomiting
• The fever occurs in a newborn or someone with a weakened immune system

In conclusion, fever is an integral part of the body’s immune response. By raising body temperature, it hinders the growth of pathogens and enhances immune cell activity. While fever can cause discomfort, it ultimately aids in the body’s fight against illness. However, persistent fever or fever accompanied by severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.