In the medical world, there are different types of fevers that are caused due to various reasons. Two types of fevers – hyperthermia fever and viral/ bacterial – often confuse people.
While they may sound similar, they are quite different in their nature, symptoms, and treatment. This article provides a comprehensive comparison between Hyperthermia Fever Vs. V/S. Let’s explore what you need to know about them.
What is Hyperthermia Fever?
Hyperthermia fever is a condition in which the body temperature is elevated beyond the normal range due to an external factor.
This means that the body’s ability to regulate its temperature is compromised due to factors like exposure to high temperatures, continuous physical exertion, or certain drugs.
Symptoms of Hyperthermia Fever
The symptoms of Hyperthermia Fever depend on the severity of the condition and the time of exposure to the external factor. Some of the common symptoms include:.
- High body temperature
- Severe thirst and dehydration
- Headache, dizziness, and fatigue
- Nausea, vomiting, and muscle cramps
- Increased heart rate and breathing rate
- Lack of sweating despite high temperature
Treatment of Hyperthermia Fever
The treatment for Hyperthermia Fever is mostly focused on preventing further damage to the body. The following steps can be taken:.
- Move to a cooler location or shade
- Drink plenty of fluids as it helps to cool down the body and prevent dehydration
- Remove tight or constricting clothing
- Take a cool shower or bath
- Use fans and air conditioning to circulate air
- Use the ice packs or cold compresses to lower body temperature
- If the symptoms persist, seek medical attention immediately
What is Viral/Bacterial Fever?
Viral/Bacterial Fever is a type of fever that occurs due to an infection caused by viruses or bacteria. Fever is the body’s natural response to fight off the infection.
The infection can be contracted through direct contact with an infected person, inhalation, consumption of contaminated food or water, and contact with contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms of Viral/Bacterial Fever
The symptoms of Viral/Bacterial Fever usually show up after 2-3 days of exposure to the infective agent. They vary from person to person and depend on the severity of the infection. Some of the common symptoms include:.
- Fever ranging from 100.5°F to 104°F or higher
- Chills and shiverings
- Headache, body aches and muscle pains
- Weakness, fatigue, and tiredness
- Loss of appetite and nausea
- Respiratory symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea
Treatment of Viral/Bacterial Fever
Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections. Antiviral medications are used to treat viral infections. The treatment also depends upon the severity of the illness. The following measures can help alleviate the symptoms:.
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Take over-the-counter medications to control fever and reduce pain
- Get plenty of rest
- Use a cool compress to bring down the temperature
- If the symptoms are severe and persistent, seek medical attention immediately
- Take care of personal hygiene and disinfect the space
The Key Differences: Hyperthermia Fever Vs. Viral/Bacterial Fever
Hyperthermia Fever and Viral/Bacterial Fever vary significantly from each other in terms of their cause, symptoms, and treatment.
- Hyperthermia Fever is caused due to external factors such as exposure to high temperatures or environmental factors. Viral/Bacterial Fever is caused due to an infection.
- Hyperthermia Fever results in a rise in body temperature above 104°F and can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and dizziness, while Viral/Bacterial Fever causes fever ranging from 100.5°F to 104°F with symptoms like cough, chills, muscle aches and more.
- Hyperthermia Fever can be treated by moving to a cooler environment, using cold compresses, and drinking plenty of fluids. Viral/Bacterial Fever can be treated with medications such as antibiotics, antivirals, and over-the-counter fever-reducing drugs.
Conclusion
Hyperthermia Fever Vs. Viral/Bacterial Fever is two different conditions that require different forms of treatment. Although both fevers cause an elevated body temperature, the underlying causes are different and so are the symptoms and treatments.
Knowing the difference between the two can help you identify the problem quickly, and you can act accordingly. Seek timely medical care or adopt preventive measures if the problem persists or gets worse.