A fever is typically a sign of the body's immune system responding to a viral or bacterial infection. Fevers can cause chills, shakiness, sweating and, rarely, febrile seizures. Whatever illness or condition is causing the fever can present additional symptoms and discomfort. Breathing exercises can lower body temperature and alleviate discomfort.
Background
Fevers serve to slow or stop the spread of infection by creating an uncomfortable environment for viral or bacterial growth. While fevers are typically caused by infection, other medical and environmental factors can cause elevated body temperature. Fevers can be caused by drug and alcohol withdrawal, autoimmune disorders, heat stroke and other serious conditions such as cancer or thrombosis. In infants and toddlers, a low-grade fever can appear following routine vaccination or during teething.
Body Temperature
Normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Body temperature naturally fluctuates during the day, and can change due to environmental factors such as hot or cold weather. In both children and adults, a fever is a body temperature over 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit, when measured by an oral thermometer.
Breathing Exercises and Fever Treatment
Fevers can cause discomfort. Just sitting quietly and breathing deeply can have a relaxing effect on the nervous system. Shakta Kaur Khalsa, author of "Kundalini Yoga," recommends two specific breaths for alleviating fever. Shitali breath, which means cooling breath, is performed by inhaling through a rolled tongue or pursed mouth. Then the mouth is closed and the exhalation is performed through the nose. The breath is continued for 52 rounds. Kaur Khalsa also recommends alternate nostril breathing to cool the body. The breath is performed by alternating inhale and exhales through the right and left nostrils. The breath is continued for three to five minutes.
Additonal Home Remedies
MayoClinic.com recommends drinking fluids, resting, dressing in light clothing and taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen to alleviate fever discomfort. Soaking in a lukewarm bath can also be cooling during a fever.
Precautions
Typically fevers are not a cause for alarm. However, any fever that is extremely high and/or lasts for more than 48 to 72 days requires medical attention. If confusion, unconsciousness, labored breathing or other serious symptoms appear, medical attention should be sought immediately.
References
- Medline Plus: Fever
- Scientific Americans: What Causes a Fever?
- Mayo Clinic: Fever
- The New York Times Health Guide: Fever
- "Kundalini Yoga"; Shatka Kaur Khalsa; 2000
