Homeopathic Approach in Treatment of Fevers

A spike or temporary increase of the body temperature is called Fever.

Fever mechanism

Normal body temperature is maintained by a balance between heat produced by the tissues and heat loss from areas of the body surface. The hypothalamus situated in the brain has a thermoregulatory centre that is responsible for maintaining the body temperature at a set-point between 37 - 38 degrees Celsius. Any increase in the body’s set-point signals fever. This temperature rise usually occurs secondary to pathological processes taking place inside the body in response to the infective organism.

Fever is a sign given by the body when it tries killing the infective organism (virus/bacteria) that caused the infection. The immune system is activated to produce more white blood cells, antibodies, and a protein called interferon. They work together to protect the body against infective organisms. By raising the body’s temperature to a few more degrees, it makes it harder for the bacteria and viruses to invade, survive and grow. The higher the core body temperature the harder it is for them to survive within the body. Hence developing fever is the body’s protective mechanism against infections.

The primary goal in fever management is to find the cause of fever and treat it accordingly. Homeopathic treatment is aimed at finding the cause of fever and treating it with homeopathic remedies most safely and gently.

Common causes of fever include

• Infections like viruses and bacteria’s

• Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, etc.

• Heat exhaustion/stroke

• Psychological factors like stress and emotional events (Psychogenic fever)

• Seizures

• Childhood vaccination

Homeopathic approach in fevers

Fever is one parameter that reflects the extent of infection within the body. An increase in body temperature and infection rate are directly proportional to each other. Just bringing down the temperature harshly without knowing the reason for it to come up in the body does not take us to the cause of infection. Not treating the infective cause or the accompanying signs and symptoms can lead to a lingering infection within the body despite the fever being abated. This affects the immune system.

Homeopathic medicines work by keeping a check on the infectious process and preventing further progression. By doing so the temperature is brought down gradually and the infection internally also subsides simultaneously. Homeopathic medicines work gently without any side effects or after-effects. It helps boost the immune system and prevents recurrent infections by improving the body’s defense mechanism.

The homeopathic medicine selection in cases of fever is based on the state and characteristic symptoms of the individual that have been noted before and during fever. Thirst for water, feeling of coldness/heat in parts of the body, stages of fever, cause of fever, behavioural changes, appetite (cravings and aversions), dreams, sleep pattern, state of mind, stress levels, environmental factors are aspects investigated. Necessary tests and investigations are also carried out based on the presenting signs and symptoms when needed. Considering all the aspects we prescribe the homeopathic remedy that matches the exact symptoms and complaints of the individual, just like a fingerprint match. When treated in this way, we can get the best results. Fever is one such example, we use this approach in treating other ailments too.

Common homeopathic medicines used in Fevers and their indications

Gelsemium

Usually indicated in fever cases where there are alternating chills with heat. Coldness of the hands and feet. Fever with drowsiness, languor, weakness, and trembling along with an absence of thirst. In malarial, typhoid, and cerebrospinal fevers when symptoms match.

Pyrogen

Extreme chills with want of heat. Chills felt in bones. Indicated in fever cases where the temperature fluctuates widely giving rise to chills and sweat; quickly oscillating temperature. Sweating without relief.

Bryonia alba

In cases of fever with intense body ache. Chills with heat in the head and red face. Dry burning heat with an increased thirst for water. Aversion to any disturbance and desire to lie down still without motion (aggravated by slightest exertion). In painfully continued fevers.

Rhus tox

Fever with intense chills as if cold water running in the veins; usually preceded by cough. Chills in single parts. Fever with body ache giving rise to restlessness, better by motion. In cases of typhoid fever and after exposure to rains.

Aconite

In cases of high fever with burning heat in different parts of the body. Fever with intense anxiety and restlessness. Fever after sudden exposure to cold winds and intense body ache. Thirst for cold water. Chills alternating with heat.

Nux vomica

In cases of fever with extreme chills and shivering (easily chilled). Excessive rigors with desire for covering during all stages of fever

Arsenic Album

Coldness externally with burning internal heat. Coldness in spots. Chills with difficulty in breathing. Indicated in high fevers, intermittent fever, and yellow fever. There is also an increased thirst for water. Intense weakness and exhaustion

In cases of high temperature during treating, we also suggest certain axillary measures such as-

• Tepid sponging- it helps control the fever to a certain extent and is not a treatment.

• Fluid replacement- increase in temperature causes loss of water from the body leading to dehydration

• Judicious use of antipyretics

Hence, “Treat the temperature, not the thermometer.”

*The homeopathic remedies mentioned above are purely intended from a knowledge perspective. Please consult a homeopathic physician before consuming any medications.