Fever: our natural defense mechanism

Our normal body temperature is between 36°C and 37.2°C. It fluctuates according to individuals, age, physical activity, ambient temperature, and in women during their menstrual cycle. It can sometimes exceed 37.5°C to keep the body functioning properly.1

Why do I have a fever?

Let's find out!

Fever is not a disease, but rather one of its symptoms.1 Most often, its cause is benign, like the common cold.2 Fever results from the activation of our body's immune defenses against a virus, bacteria or parasites.3 A fever in adults is defined as a temperature above 38°C. This is when our body activates its defense mechanism.1

  • Substances that raise the temperature are produced by our cells to fight the cause of the infection.2
  • The body's “thermostat” rises when these substances are produced... resulting in fever.2

Other causes are also possible

Heatstroke or sunstroke4, an immune system problem linked to temperature regulation, can cause fever. It can also occur as a reaction to certain medications or vaccines.2

Depending on the symptoms, suitable medical care and treatment may be recommended.5

Photo of a sick child

*INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL

What are the symptoms of fever?

When the body activates its natural defenses, certain signs may indicate a rise in temperature: fatigue, irritability, increased heart rate, shivering and trembling. These signals should be confirmed by taking the temperature.1

As soon as the body no longer needs to produce substances to defend itself, temperature and heart rate drop.1 The body may sweat to help eliminate toxins and regulate temperature.7

There are many ways to take my temperature.

Which is the most reliable?

It all depends on how you take it. The most common method is by the mouth and the most accurate is by the rectum. Other less precise methods are possible, such as by the armpit.1

Depending on the individual and the method used, normal temperatures vary as follows:8

I took the temperature by:

Normal body temperature ranges from:

Rectal route (by the rectum)

36.6 to 38°C

Oral route (by the mouth)

35.5 to 37.5°C

Tympanic route (by the ear)

35.8 to 38°C

Forehead strip thermometers or infrared thermometers can be used, but the measurement is not accurate, as it can be distorted by external elements such as sweat, air.9

How can I lower my fever?

In many cases, fever spikes are harmless. Some simple steps can help you keep up with it, such as10

  • Drink plenty of fluids, as fever-induced perspiration can lead to dehydration.
  • Turn down the heater and avoid covering up too much to release body heat.
  • Relax and rest.
     

It's usually only when the temperature exceeds 38.5°C that paracetamol can be considered.11

What medications can lower body temperature?

Medications containing paracetamol, such as Doliprane 1000, can be used to reduce fever.12

Be sure to read the package leaflet carefully. Ask your pharmacist for advice.

If fever persists for more than 3 days, consult your doctor.13

Photo of a man with a mug

*INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL

I'm worried about my fever. Should I seek medical attention right away?

While you can relieve fever with over-the-counter treatments, some situations require medical attention sooner or later, depending on the symptoms.13

Photo of a doctor and an elderly man

*INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL

I should consult my doctor immediately:

  •  
  • If symptoms persist for more than 3 days despite taking paracetamol, if they worsen or are accompanied by any other worrying or unusual symptoms.14
  • If the fever affects a person with a compromised immune system15 or a trip to an exotic country.16
  • If the fever affects a person with cardiac or respiratory insufficiency,17 or an elderly person.18
  • If the fever is associated with urinary pain, moderate headaches or respiratory discomfort.14
Photo of a man holding a thermometer

*INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL

I should call emergency services in the following cases

Ambulance: 123

  • If the fever is accompanied by the following symptoms: severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, convulsions or seizures, nausea, difficult breathing and/or stomach pains or behavioral problems.19
  • If the fever develops after a stay in a region where malaria is rife.16

When you consult your doctor about a fever, it's important to clarify whether it's accompanied by any other signs, and to explain each symptom. This will help you get the right diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment.

To wrap up

In many cases, fever is not necessarily a symptom of serious illness, and taking paracetamol correctly can help you manage it. Under no circumstances should you think “the more I take, the faster the fever will break”. And of course, if in doubt, consult your doctor.10

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Our products

Doliprane Tabs 1000 mg

Doliprane Tabs 1000 mg

Oblong, 1000 mg Paracetamol tablet.1

Doliprane is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of clinical conditions requiring an analgesic and/or an antipyretic such as:1

- Symptomatology associated with flu or hyperthermia related to infection
- Fever reaction to vaccination
- Headaches and migraines
- Toothache, earache, period, traumatic, muscle, joints or osteoarthritic pain
- Analgesic before and after surgical procedures

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HF0253OA3606/052025
14/05/2027