While it’s important to monitor and manage high fevers, fevers on the lower spectrum (from 99.1 degrees Fahrenheit to 102 degrees Fahrenheit) can provide several health benefits.
Following are 6 reasons why a fever might actually be good for you.
1. Increases the production of white blood cells
When we have a fever, our body ramps up the production of white blood cells. These cells are the frontline soldiers of our immune system, responsible for identifying and attacking pathogens like bacteria and viruses. According to a study published in the journal Immunology and Cell Biology, increased body temperatures stimulate the bone marrow to produce more white blood cells, enhancing our body’s ability to fight infections. This increased production helps our immune system respond more effectively to invaders, reducing the severity and duration of the illness.
2. Slowdowns the growth of bacteria and viruses
Fever creates a less favourable environment for bacteria and viruses to thrive. Many pathogens prefer the body’s normal temperature of around 37°C (98.6°F). When our body temperature rises, it can slow down the replication of these microorganisms. Research from the Journal of Virology has shown that higher body temperatures can inhibit the replication of certain viruses, such as the influenza virus. Slowing their growth gives more time to our immune system to mount an effective defence and clear the infection.
3. Betterment in antiviral and antibacterial activity
A higher body temperature not only slows down the pathogens but also enhances the activity of certain immune cells. Fever boosts the production of proteins called cytokines, which play an important role in regulating immune responses. These cytokines, in turn, increase the activity of antiviral and antibacterial molecules within your body. A study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation highlighted that fever-range temperatures enhance the efficiency of immune cells called neutrophils, which are important for combating infections. This means that our body becomes more adept at attacking and neutralising harmful microorganisms.
4. Improves the cellular repair process
Fever can also start the body’s repair processes. Higher temperatures can stimulate heat shock proteins, which help protect cells from stress and promote the repair of damaged proteins. According to research published in Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, these proteins play an important role in cellular maintenance and recovery. By inducing the production of heat shock proteins, fever helps ensure that cells damaged by infection or inflammation are repaired more efficiently, aiding in quicker recovery.
5. Detoxification process
When we have a fever, our body’s metabolic rate increases. This boost in metabolism can help in the detoxification process. Higher metabolic rates lead to increased perspiration and excretion of toxins. A study in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health suggests that sweating can help eliminate certain toxins from the body. Therefore, a fever-induced sweat session can assist in flushing out harmful substances, contributing to overall health and well-being.
6. It gives us a better immune memory
Fever can also enhance the body’s immune memory, which is important for long-term protection against pathogens. Immune memory is the ability of the immune system to remember previous encounters with specific pathogens and respond more rapidly and effectively upon subsequent exposures. Research in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that fever-range temperatures improve the formation of immune memory cells, such as T cells and B cells. This means that experiencing a fever can actually prepare our immune system to better defend against future infections, making us stronger in the long run.
