It's always believed that one can detect fever by touching someone's forehead. But the truth of the matter is, the abdomen is far more likely to feel warm when one has a fever. However, a thermometer should be considered the only way to measure body temperature accurately.
Myth #1: All adults should have normal body temperature of 98,6 degree Fahrenheit.
Normal body temperature is considered to be 98.6 Fahrenheit, but it actually varies. For some, 98 degree Fahrenheit is normal, and for others, it could be high up to 99 degree Fahrenheit. Body temperature normally rises during the course of the day - one's temperature may be 98.2 degree Fahrenheit in the morning and rise to 99.4 degree Fahrenheit in late afternoon.
Myth #2: A fever usually means that one is having an infection.
However, this is not usually the case. Although bacterial pneumonia or bladder infection is usually accompanied by a fever, a fever could also signal an allergic reaction, dehydration, inflammation, a hormone disorder, autoimmune diseases, or even some viral illnesses such as stomach flu, influenza and common cold.
Myth #3: A fever should always be treated.
Usually, one doesn't have to always treat a fever unless it goes too high (above 104 degree Fahrenheit) because it will cause no permanent damage although one will feel uncomfortable. Some doctors always suggest letting a fever naturally run its course. That way, one will not undermine one's body's natural defense process.
Myth #4: Aspirin is the most useful medicine for a fever.
The most common fever reducing antipyretics, such as Tylenol, Advil and Aleve, are commonly available over-the-counter. But extreme cautions have to be taken when these drugs are employed to suppress a fever because if one doesn't take these medications according to the exact dosage as suggested by their physician, one might suffer from many potential side effects these drugs might have.
Myth #5: All thermometers are accurate.
Traditional glass mercury thermometers are the most accurate. But sadly, they're no longer preferred due to the potential dangers of mercury spill when the glass is broken. Digital rectal and digital oral thermometers are also very accurate while ear thermometers are comparatively less accurate. Forehead thermometers, however, are very unreliable for exact measurements. Oh, by the way, it's always a good idea to inform your doctor which kind of thermometer has been used for taking your temperature.
Myth #6: A fever is contagious.
Someone with an upper respiratory tract infection could be contagious in the early stage when they have a runny nose but no fever. However, a person can be running a fever after having been given several days of treatment with antibiotic but no longer be contagious.
Author Resource:
In addition to an interest in health, Ryan can show you How To Do Magic Tricks and Mentalism (like you see performed on TV) http://www.MasterMentalism.com
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