Febrile

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Febrile refers to anything related to or characterized by fever. It is a term that is often used in the medical field to describe symptoms, conditions, or reactions that are accompanied by an elevated body temperature.

Definition[edit | edit source]

Febrile is derived from the Latin word 'febris', which means fever. In medical terms, it is used to describe any condition that is accompanied by a fever. This can include a wide range of illnesses and conditions, from common infections like the flu to more serious conditions like malaria or meningitis.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Febrile conditions are typically caused by an underlying illness or condition that triggers the body's immune response. This can include:

  • Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can all cause a febrile response. This includes common illnesses like the flu or a cold, as well as more serious conditions like pneumonia or sepsis.
  • Inflammatory conditions: Conditions that cause inflammation in the body, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, can also cause a fever.
  • Cancer: Certain types of cancer can cause a febrile response, particularly if they affect the immune system.
  • Medications: Some medications can cause a febrile reaction as a side effect.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of a febrile condition is a fever, which is typically defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). Other symptoms can vary widely depending on the underlying cause of the fever, but may include:

  • Chills or shivering
  • Sweating
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dehydration

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for febrile conditions typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the fever. This may involve:

  • Antibiotics or antiviral medications for infections
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammatory conditions
  • Chemotherapy or radiation for cancer
  • Discontinuing or changing medications that are causing the fever

In some cases, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used to help reduce the fever and relieve symptoms.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Febrile Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD