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| - Last Updated on October 22, 2024 by Nivedita
Quick Take
A social media post claims that you should avoid antipyretic drugs and use warm water therapy instead during a fever. Our fact check concludes that this claim is False.
The Claim
A viral Instagram post advises against using antipyretic drugs during a fever due to their alleged severe side effects. The video claims these medications are “the worst in the world” and can cause kidney failure, liver damage, and brain damage. Instead, it recommends immersing the legs in warm water and drinking warm water simultaneously to lower fever in one attempt, stating this is a safer and better method than using medications.
Fact Check
What are antipyretic drugs?
Antipyretic drugs, like paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen, are medications that reduce fever. They act by lowering the body’s temperature set point, which helps relieve discomfort. These medications are widely used and are generally considered safe when taken as directed. Fever is often a symptom of infections, and antipyretics help to make the patient feel better, though they do not treat the underlying cause of the fever.
Do antipyretic drugs have severe side effects?
No, when taken correctly, antipyretic drugs do not lead to severe side effects. However, misuse can cause serious health issues. For example, an overdose of paracetamol can harm the liver, but this risk is avoidable by following dosage guidelines. It’s important to remember that while ibuprofen can affect kidney function, this risk primarily concerns those with pre-existing kidney problems. Additionally, there is a popular home remedy that suggests using basil leaves and black pepper to treat fever as an alternative to medications. While some people may find this helpful, it is still not a proven cure for fever at home.
Dr Kashyap Dakshini, General Physician from Mumbai, says, “Paracetamol is considered the safest antipyretic for treating fever. While other drugs like ibuprofen and NSAIDs also have antipyretic effects, it is important to use them with caution. Taking these drugs for prolonged periods can lead to adverse effects on the stomach, liver, and kidneys. It is not recommended to use NSAIDs in individuals with kidney problems, stomach ulcers, liver conditions, or cardiac issues.”
Can warm water immersion replace fever medications?
Not quite. Soaking your feet in warm water can bring temporary comfort, but it won’t actually lower your body temperature. Drinking warm water helps keep you hydrated, but it doesn’t lower a fever either. For effective fever management, antipyretic drugs are still the most reliable choice, even though some people suggest reconsidering the use of paracetamol.
The study (mentioned in the video) claiming that warm water foot immersion can lower body temperature by about 1.1°F suggests it might be a simple, non-drug approach for managing mild fevers. However, the study has significant limitations: it involved a small group of patients with only mild to moderate fever, and it did not compare the method directly with standard fever medications. While the therapy might offer some comfort, it is not as effective or well-studied as antipyretics, which are safe when used correctly. Therefore, relying solely on warm water therapy is not recommended, especially for persistent or high fevers.
The debate on using natural remedies over conventional medications highlights a broader trend in health consciousness, paralleling discussions about the potential risks of electromagnetic fields from devices like Bluetooth earbuds.
What are the risks of untreated fever?
Untreated fever, especially when temperatures exceed 39°C (102°F) or persist for several days, can lead to serious complications. Ignoring a fever may result in dehydration, confusion, or febrile seizures in children. Elevated body temperature can cause inflammation and harm various organs. In the gastrointestinal tract, it may damage gut function and reduce blood flow. The kidneys can experience decreased function and a higher risk of acute kidney injury, particularly in athletes. Additionally, the cardiovascular system may be affected, resulting in low blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms that can harm the heart.
High temperatures can cause problems with thinking and memory, and some people may have long-lasting brain issues. The liver can get damaged too, and in serious cases, a transplant might be needed. Additionally, high fever can affect blood clotting, leading to problems in various organs.
Fever often signals underlying infections, so managing it is important for both comfort and diagnosis. It is also important to pay attention to your diet during a fever to meet the specific nutritional needs of your condition. Relying on misinformation can increase health risks, making it essential to seek medical advice.
Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician, Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, says, “Untreated fever can pose significant health risks. If a fever is high or lasts more than a couple of days, it can lead to dehydration and even serious conditions like confusion or seizures in young children. Fever is often a signal that something more serious is going on in the body. It’s essential to monitor it closely and consult a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate management and prevent complications.”
Are antipyretic drugs truly among the ‘worst in the world’ for side effects?
No, this statement is misleading. Antipyretic drugs, when used properly, are safe and among the most commonly prescribed medications. Paracetamol and ibuprofen have been extensively studied, and their side effects are well-known. Misusing these drugs can lead to issues, but that reflects poor usage, not a flaw in the medication itself.
THIP Media Take
The claim that antipyretic drugs should be avoided due to severe side effects is false. These medications are safe for managing fever when used as directed. Warm water immersion is not scientifically proven to reduce fever effectively. Always consult healthcare professionals for guidance on fever management.
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