Fever

Fever, a common ailment experienced by individuals worldwide, holds a distinctive place in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. In Ayurveda, health is viewed as a delicate balance between the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Understanding fever through Ayurvedic perception involves delving into the doshic imbalances, triggers, symptoms, and holistic approaches to healing.

Introduction: Ayurveda’s Holistic View on Fever

Fever is the body’s natural defense mechanism. When harmful bacteria or organisms enter our body, the immune system produces antibodies to fight them. However, it takes about three days for these antibodies to form. In the meantime, the body raises its temperature to quickly kill and prevent the spread of the invading organisms. So, fever is actually a protective response by our body and not a disorder.

Currently, many people try to lower their temperature for immediate relief, but this can lead to the rapid spread of the invading organisms within the body. Antibodies usually start working on the third day of the infection, and in 90% of cases, fever naturally decreases after this point.

Excessively high temperatures can harm our own cells, and it’s important to protect the vital organ, the brain, from this heat. Applying a cold, damp cloth to the forehead can help.

In Ayurveda, methods like fasting and specific treatments (kaal chikitsa) are recommended to regulate the fever process, speed up recovery, and restore normalcy. Ayurveda suggests that having a normal digestive power and feeling refreshed are signs of a completed fever. Currently, having a normal temperature is considered a good sign that the fever has subsided.

Treatment is only necessary for high temperatures or if the fever persists for more than four days. Otherwise, the body does not require intervention to reduce the fever. If the natural temperature cycle is disrupted, the body may try to bring back the fever to complete the process of stopping the bacteria, leading to recurrence.

Causes & Process of Fever

Ayurveda identifies specific triggers for fever, ranging from dietary choices to lifestyle habits. Consuming incompatible foods, exposure to extreme weather, and emotional stress are recognized as contributors to dosha imbalances and subsequent fever.

Now, let’s see how the body raises its temperature.

To increase the body’s temperature:

1. The body stops sweating because sweating helps to cool down.

2. Kidney function slows down, reducing urine formation. Urine also helps in lowering body temperature.

3. The body uses Agni (digestive power) to raise its temperature. However, this hampers the normal functioning of the digestive power, leading to a reduced appetite.

4. The body increases the basal metabolic rate, producing more heat.

However, our body lacks a mechanism to protect our brain cells from damage caused by this high temperature. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult and be observed by a doctor in every case of fever.

Doshas and Fever: The Energetic Imbalances

Fever is often considered a result of the body’s attempt to eliminate toxins or foreign invaders. Aggravation of any dosha can contribute to the manifestation of fever, and the specific dosha involved can influence the nature of the symptoms experienced.

1. Vata Dosha and Fever:

When Vata dosha is aggravated, it can lead to symptoms such as chills, body aches, and a variable pulse. Vata imbalance may contribute to the body’s inability to generate and maintain heat, resulting in a type of fever characterized by cold sensations.

2. Pitta Dosha and Fever:

Pitta dosha, when imbalanced, can manifest as fever with symptoms like a strong, bounding pulse, heightened body temperature, and inflammation. Pitta-related fever may be accompanied by thirst, irritability, and a feeling of heat in the body.

3. Kapha Dosha and Fever:

Kapha dosha imbalance may result in a fever characterized by heaviness, congestion, and a sluggish feeling. Individuals with Kapha-related fever may experience lethargy, aches, and a mucus-like quality to the fever.

Symptoms of Fever

A. Early signs before actual fever – 

• Fatigue
• Loss of interest in food
• Indigestion
• Stressful eyes, burning sensation in eyes.
• Yawning
• Body ache
• Heaviness in body
• Goosebumps
• Drowsiness etc

B. Symptoms of Fever

• Most common sign is elevated temperature
• Irritation to body, mind and senses
• No sweating
• Restlessness
• Body ache
• Disturbance in digestion
• Reduced hunger 

These are common signs of fever. Other signs changes according to type of fever.

Ayurvedic Diagnosis

Beyond the rise in body temperature, Ayurvedic practitioners pay attention to subtle changes in pulse, tongue coating, and overall energy levels. The diagnostic process includes:

1. Pulse Examination (Nadi Pariksha):

   – Ayurvedic practitioners assess the pulse to identify irregularities, changes in rhythm, and the quality of the pulse. Different pulse characteristics are associated with specific doshic imbalances, helping in the diagnosis of the predominant dosha involved in the fever.

2. Observation of Symptoms (Darshan):

   – The external appearance and symptoms displayed by the individual are carefully observed. This includes the color of the skin, eyes, and tongue, as well as any visible signs such as sweating, shivering, or body temperature changes.

3. Interrogation (Prashna):

   – A detailed inquiry into the individual’s medical history, lifestyle, dietary habits, and recent exposures helps identify potential causes and contributing factors to the fever. Questions may explore the onset of symptoms, associated discomfort, and any pre-existing health conditions.

4. Examination of Tongue (Jihva Pariksha):

   – The tongue’s color, coating, and overall appearance are examined, providing insights into the doshic imbalance and the nature of the fever. Changes in tongue characteristics can indicate the involvement of specific doshas.

5. Urine Examination (Mootra Pariksha):

   – The color, odor, and consistency of urine are analyzed as part of Ayurvedic diagnosis. Changes in urine characteristics provide clues about doshic imbalances and the body’s efforts to eliminate toxins.

6. Assessment of Appetite and Digestion (Annam Pariksha):

   – The practitioner evaluates the individual’s appetite, digestion, and any changes in taste preferences. This helps in understanding the state of the digestive fire (agni) and its role in the fever.

7. Evaluation of Vital Signs:

   – Monitoring vital signs, such as body temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate, assists in assessing the severity of the fever and its impact on the individual’s overall well-being.

Ayurvedic Treatments: Herbs and Dietary Adjustments

Ayurvedic treatments for fever encompass a holistic approach, incorporating specific herbs and dietary adjustments to address the underlying doshic imbalances. Here are some key elements of Ayurvedic treatment for fever:

1. Dietary Adjustments:

   – a. Fasting (Langhana): Fasting or consuming light, easily digestible foods allows the digestive system to rest and redirects energy towards healing. Fasting for three to seven days are required.

   – b. Warm Liquids: Drinking warm water, herbal teas, or broths helps maintain hydration and supports the body in breaking the fever.

   – c. Fresh Fruits: Incorporating fruits with high water content, such as watermelon and oranges, aids in hydration and provides essential nutrients.

   – d. Avoiding Heavy Foods: Steering clear of heavy, difficult-to-digest foods during fever helps prevent strain on the digestive system. For example – curd, fast-food, nonveg, bread, biscuits. 

2. Herbal Remedies:

   – a. Tulsi (Holy Basil): Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, Tulsi helps boost the immune system and alleviate fever symptoms.

   – b. Ginger (Adrak):** Ginger has warming properties and aids in reducing fever by promoting sweating and improving circulation.

   – c. Neem (Azadirachta indica):** Neem is valued for its antipyretic and antibacterial properties, supporting the body in fighting infections.

   – d. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia):** This herb is renowned for its immune-boosting qualities and is effective in managing fever.

3. Lifestyle Recommendations:

   – a. Adequate Rest: Ample rest allows the body to focus its energy on recovery and healing. Don’t exercise during fever.

   – b. Lukewarm Bath: A lukewarm bath helps reduce body temperature and promotes relaxation.

   – c. Maintaining Hygiene: Keeping personal and surrounding hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of infections.

4. Ayurvedic Formulations:

   – a. Sudarshan Churna: This herbal formulation, containing ingredients like Bhumiamalaki, Katuki, and Trikatu, is known for its effectiveness in managing fever.

   – b. Mahasudarshan Kwath: A decoction made from herbs like Guduchi, Trikatu, and Musta, Mahasudarshan Kwath supports the immune system and aids in fever management.

Panchakarma for Chronic Fever

Panchakarma, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic therapies, is employed for chronic fever management. When any symptom of fever remains even after 21 days, then only therapies are advised. In acute stage, it is contraindicated. Through processes like Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Virechana (purgation), the body undergoes detoxification, aiding in the elimination of excess doshas and toxins.

Procedure:

• The selection of Panchakarma therapies is determined based on the individual’s Prakriti (constitution), Vikriti (current imbalances), and the nature of the chronic fever.
• Prior to undergoing Panchakarma, a preparatory phase known as Purvakarma is initiated, involving oleation (external and internal oil application) and sudation (sweating therapy).
• The main Panchakarma procedures are then administered under the guidance of an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner.

Benefits:

• Panchakarma aims to eliminate accumulated doshic imbalances and toxins from the body, promoting a state of equilibrium.
• It strengthens the immune system, enhances digestion, and rejuvenates the overall physiological functions.
• The therapies are tailored to the individual’s unique constitution and health condition, ensuring a personalized and effective approach.

The suitability of Panchakarma for chronic fever is determined based on the specific doshic imbalances and the individual’s overall health status

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