Sepsis (septicemia): Risk factors, symptoms, and treatment

Sneezing And Chills Are Symptoms Of 5 Common Viruses

While these symptoms may seem minor, they are part of your body's response to fighting off viral invaders

When you experience sneezing and chills, it's easy to dismiss these symptoms as a common cold or seasonal allergies. However, these symptoms can be indicative of several viral infections that range from mild to severe. Understanding the potential causes behind sneezing and chills is crucial not only for your well-being but also for preventing the spread of these viruses to others. In this article, we will explore five common viruses that can cause sneezing and chills, shedding light on their characteristics, symptoms and preventive measures.

1. The common cold

Understanding the virusThe common cold is one of the most widespread illnesses globally, caused primarily by rhinoviruses. This virus thrives in the nasal passages, leading to the irritation that causes sneezing. While the cold itself is generally mild, the symptoms can be quite uncomfortable, particularly when they are accompanied by chills.

Symptoms and progressionThe onset of a common cold is usually gradual, with sneezing being one of the first symptoms. As the virus progresses, it may lead to additional symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat and mild fever. Chills — though less common — can occur, especially in the early stages or in response to fever.

Prevention and careWhile there is no cure for the common cold, preventive measures include frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals and maintaining a healthy immune system through proper diet and rest. Over-the-counter medications can alleviate symptoms, but rest and hydration remain the most effective remedies.

2. Influenza

Understanding the virusInfluenza — commonly known as the flu — is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Unlike the common cold, the flu can lead to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children and those with chronic illnesses.

Symptoms and progressionFlu symptoms often appear suddenly and are more intense than those of a common cold. Sneezing and chills are early signs of influenza, often accompanied by high fever, body aches and fatigue. The chills associated with the flu can be particularly intense, often leaving the affected individual feeling weak and cold despite a high body temperature.

Prevention and careAnnual flu vaccinations are the most effective way to prevent influenza. Additionally, good hygiene practices — such as covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing and regularly sanitizing surfaces — can reduce the spread of the virus. If infected, antiviral medications may be prescribed to lessen the severity and duration of symptoms.

3. COVID-19

Understanding the virusCOVID-19 — caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus —has dramatically altered the global landscape since its emergence in late 2019. This virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and has a wide range of symptoms, making it particularly insidious.

Symptoms and progressionSneezing is not typically a primary symptom of COVID-19, but it can occur, especially in the presence of other respiratory symptoms. Chills — on the other hand — are more commonly associated with the virus, often accompanying fever and body aches. COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe, with some individuals requiring hospitalization.

Prevention and careVaccination remains the most effective means of preventing severe illness from COVID-19. In addition, wearing masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, maintaining physical distance and regular hand washing are critical in reducing transmission. If you suspect you have COVID-19, self-isolation and testing are essential to prevent spreading the virus to others.

4. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Understanding the virusRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that affects the respiratory tract, particularly in infants and young children. Although it typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms, RSV can lead to more severe respiratory issues, especially in premature infants or those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms and progressionSneezing and chills can be early indicators of RSV, especially in children. As the virus progresses, it may cause more severe symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. In some cases, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, requiring medical intervention.

Prevention and carePreventive measures for RSV include good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and keeping infants away from crowded places during peak RSV season. For those at high risk, a preventive medication known as palivizumab may be recommended. Treatment typically focuses on relieving symptoms and ensuring adequate oxygen levels in severe cases.

5. Adenovirus

Understanding the virusAdenoviruses are a group of viruses that can cause a variety of illnesses, ranging from mild respiratory infections to severe pneumonia. These viruses are highly contagious and can affect individuals of all ages, though they are particularly prevalent in children.

Symptoms and progressionAdenovirus infections often begin with symptoms similar to those of a common cold, including sneezing and chills. As the virus progresses, it can cause more severe symptoms, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), sore throat and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. In some cases, adenoviruses can lead to more serious complications, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Prevention and carePreventing adenovirus infections involves practicing good hygiene — such as frequent hand washing and avoiding touching the face. There is no specific treatment for adenovirus, so care focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration. In severe cases, medical attention may be required to manage complications.

Taking action against viral infections

Sneezing and chills — while common and often benign symptoms — should not be ignored. They can be early indicators of a viral infection that may require attention, particularly in vulnerable individuals. By understanding the viruses that cause these symptoms and taking preventive measures, you can protect yourself and others from potentially severe health complications.

It's important to recognize that while these symptoms may seem minor, they are part of your body's response to fighting off viral invaders. Staying informed about these common viruses and practicing good health habits can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. Remember, when in doubt, it's always best to consult with a health care professional to determine the best course of action for your symptoms.

By taking these steps, you can not only safeguard your own health but also contribute to the well-being of your community. Whether it's the common cold, influenza, COVID-19, RSV or adenovirus, being proactive in recognizing and addressing these symptoms can lead to quicker recovery and reduce the spread of these viruses.

This story was created using AI technology.

Why You'd Better Watch A Fever Closely

A fever is your body's signal that something might be wrong. Ignore it and you could pay a steep price.

Fever is a common symptom that can accompany a wide range of illnesses, from the mild common cold to more serious conditions like the flu or infections. While many people consider a fever a nuisance that can be treated with over-the-counter medications and rest, a fever is more than just a high temperature.

Here are the potential underlying causes of a fever, how to manage it effectively and why you shouldn't brush it off as something to be overlooked.

Understanding fever

At the core of the body's defense mechanism, a fever is an elevated body temperature that usually indicates that the immune system is fighting off an infection. Most people recognize that a fever is an indicator of illness, but it's crucial to grasp what the fever is actually doing within the body.

When the immune system detects an invader, such as bacteria or a virus, it triggers the hypothalamus — the part of the brain that regulates body temperature — to raise the body's heat. This rise in temperature is intended to create a less favorable environment for the invading organisms, helping the body combat the illness more effectively.

However, while a fever can be beneficial in fighting off infections, it can also be dangerous if not monitored closely. High fevers, especially those that persist or rapidly increase, can lead to complications such as dehydration, seizures, or even more severe health problems. This is why it's essential to keep a close eye on fever, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Common causes of fever

While most fevers are caused by viral or bacterial infections, there are other potential causes that should not be overlooked. Understanding these causes can help you determine whether a fever is a simple symptom or a sign of something more serious.

Infections: The most common cause of fever is an infection, which can range from mild to severe. Common infections include respiratory infections (like the flu or pneumonia), urinary tract infections, and gastrointestinal infections.

Heat exhaustion: Exposure to high temperatures, particularly in the summer months, can lead to heat exhaustion and result in a fever. This condition requires prompt treatment to prevent it from progressing to heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.

Inflammatory conditions: Diseases that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, can also trigger a fever. In these cases, the fever is a sign that the body is experiencing widespread inflammation, which may require specialized treatment.

Vaccinations: It's not uncommon for some people, especially children, to develop a mild fever after receiving vaccinations. This is usually short-lived and a normal response to the vaccine as the body builds immunity.

Serious conditions: In rare cases, a persistent or very high fever can be a sign of more serious conditions, such as sepsis (a life-threatening response to infection), cancer, or autoimmune diseases.

Recognizing the cause of a fever can help you take the appropriate steps to manage it and decide when to seek medical attention.

The risks of ignoring a fever

Ignoring a fever or failing to monitor it closely can lead to severe health consequences, especially if the fever is a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. Here are some potential risks associated with not paying close attention to a fever:

Dehydration: Fever causes an increase in body temperature, which can lead to excessive sweating. If fluids are not replenished, dehydration can occur. This is particularly dangerous for young children and the elderly, who may not be able to recognize or communicate their need for fluids.

Febrile seizures: In children, a rapid rise in temperature can lead to these convulsions that occur as a result of fever. While generally not harmful in the long term, they are frightening and require immediate attention.

Complications from underlying conditions: If a fever is a symptom of a more serious condition like pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis, ignoring it can delay critical treatment. This can lead to the condition worsening and, in severe cases, becoming life-threatening.

Heatstroke: If a fever is caused by heat exhaustion, failure to cool the body down can lead to heatstroke. Heatstroke is a medical emergency that can result in permanent damage to the brain and other vital organs, or even death.

How to monitor and manage a fever

Taking care of someone with a fever involves more than just checking their temperature periodically. It requires a comprehensive approach to ensure that the fever is managed effectively and that any underlying issues are addressed.

Regular temperature checks: Use a reliable thermometer to check the person's temperature regularly. This will help you track whether the fever is staying steady, increasing, or decreasing. Digital thermometers are often the most accurate and easy to use.

Stay hydrated: Ensure that the person with the fever drinks plenty of fluids. Water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions are ideal. Avoid sugary drinks or caffeinated beverages.

Rest and comfort: Encourage plenty of rest, as the body needs energy to fight off the infection. Keep the environment comfortable, neither too hot nor too cold, and dress the person in lightweight clothing.

Medications: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce a fever and provide relief from discomfort. However, always follow dosing instructions carefully and consult with a healthcare professional if there are any concerns.

Seek medical advice: If the fever persists for more than a few days, is very high (above 103°F or 39.4°C), or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion), seek medical attention immediately.

Know when to call a doctor: For certain populations, such as infants, elderly individuals, or those with pre-existing health conditions, it's important to seek medical advice early if a fever develops. For example, a fever in an infant under three months old requires immediate medical attention.

This story was created using AI technology.

Hidden Strength Behind A Fever: Research Shows How T-cells Can 'supercharge' Body

Rosemary Jackson knows all too well the horrors of life-threatening diseases such as malaria. 

The former student at Gisborne's Campion College contracted it after volunteer work turned into a deadly civil war experience in the volatile African nation of South Sudan — one of the most dangerous countries in the world. 

Now doing infection research as she works toward a PhD, Jackson vividly recalls what her body went through in the throes of the mosquito-borne disease in the Third World country. 

Every inch of her body was aching. She was delirious and nauseous. The arid, sub-Saharan air stoked the scorching heat of her body. She remembers lying face down on a mercifully cool slab of concrete, pleading for the heat and pain to leave her body. 

To make things worse, she had minimal access to medical care, her only relief from the sustained fever and pain coming from paracetamol and ibuprofen. 

Jackson, in her early 20s, had gone to the city of Yei — located near the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda — to volunteer at a children's home. 

However, after a few months, she suddenly found herself in the middle of a civil war, caring for 130 children. 

With mass evacuations under way, medical care in the city became almost non-existent, and basics like food and fuel were scarce. 

Jackson was forced to step up to a medical role, dressing wounds and treating infections on a daily basis under the supervision of two American nurses. 

During her 18 months there, she contracted malaria three times. 

Jackson is back in New Zealand where she is undertaking her PhD in the Gasser Laboratory at the Malaghan Institute, supervised by Dr David O'Sullivan. 

The Malaghan Institute is an independent biomedical research charity with a focus on breakthrough discoveries in immunology and immunotherapy. 

Jackson is investigating if a mild to moderate fever helps T-cells mount a stronger attack against infections. Specifically, she is looking into how T-cells change on a molecular level during increased temperatures and how long the fever needs to be sustained to bring about any beneficial changes in the T-cells. 

"Fever happens when our immune system detects a threat and communicates the presence of an infection to our brains. Our body's thermostat, located in part of our brain called the hypothalamus, then turns up the heat," she says. 

"Our body's average temperature is about 37C. This increases to 38C for a low-grade fever and up to 41C for a high-grade fever. Maintaining this higher temperature takes a huge amount of energy and is very taxing on the body. As most of us have experienced, this feels miserable. Fever can bring about crippling fatigue that leaves you unable to carry out your daily functions, along with body aches and loss of appetite. Paradoxically, fever also makes us feel like we're cold — making us seek the warmth of blankets and heaters." 

This physiological response is common across all mammals. Even cold-blooded animals such as fish and reptiles will seek out warmth during infections to raise their body temperature. This indicates that a higher temperature may be beneficial to the body in some way during infection. 

"Everyone has heard grandma's advice to 'let the fever run its course', that an increased body  ... [temperature] will drive out whatever is infecting the body," Jackson says. 

"What if that wasn't entirely unhelpful advice? In our modern lives, we tend to run away from any uncomfortable experience. We tend to think of fever as being a product of the infection, rather than our body's own way of launching an attack against the infection." 

Fevers can create a hostile environment and inhibit the growth of infectious agents such as invading bacteria and viruses which are adapted to normal human body temperature. 

"What is less known is how fevers also serve to aid our body's offensive strategy against the infectious agent. Some evidence suggests the increased temperature results in enhanced immune function, helping white blood cells, including T-cells, kick into gear to overcome the infection. 

"T-cells are some of our most important immune cells. Part of their response involves a rapid expansion phase where one highly specialised T-cell will become activated and multiply to produce a whole army of clones that can target and kill the specific threat. 

"For this rapid expansion of immune cells to occur, the body needs an increase in both energy and building materials for those new cells. It's possible that elevated temperatures help the T-cells to do this more effectively, 'supercharging' them from the inside." 

Jackson is conducting experiments in which she takes T-cells and activates them at either normal temperature (37C) or moderate fever temperature (39C) and leaves them overnight. This mimics common patterns where an individual gets sick in the evening and has a fever overnight, which then subsides in the morning. 

She then monitors the cellular and molecular changes that occur over the next several days in both these sets of T-cells to understand if there is any difference in the cells which were activated at fever temperatures. 

"So far, we've found some very interesting results. T-cells that were exposed to fever-like temperatures for several hours when activated, along with their subsequent generations of clones, showed increased immune activity even several days after being returned to normal body temperature. 

"In contrast, T-cells kept at normal body temperature from the start did not show this same heightened activity. This suggests that even a brief period of increased temperature triggered signals within the cells that were passed down to their clones, instructing those clones to become more potent in their immune response." 

She will soon begin studying these effects in infectious disease models, including influenza, to see how these molecular changes in T-cells may alter the immune response during infection. 

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