The relationship between stress and fever Can stress cause fever?
Seyed Morteza Ramezani
Shirazpsychologist
The relationship between stress and fever | Can stress cause an increase in body temperature?
Many people have experienced that the relationship between stress and fever sometimes causes an increase in body temperature. But can stress really cause a fever? The short answer is: Yes, but not always!
How does stress affect the body?
When we are stressed, our body enters the "fight or flight" mode. In this case, hormones like adrenaline and cortisol are released to prepare the body to react. These hormones can cause increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and in some cases, slight increase in body temperature
What is nervous fever or fever caused by stress?
Fevers that occur without a specific infection or disease are called nervous fever or fever caused by stress. This type of fever is usually mild (between 37 and 38 degrees Celsius) and occurs when a person is in a state of anxiety, work pressure or extreme worry.
The role of cortisol and the immune system
Cortisol, the main stress hormone, can affect the immune system. A long-term increase in cortisol may alter the body's natural response to inflammation and sometimes cause a temporary increase in body temperature. This mechanism explains why some people get a mild fever when they are anxious.
The difference between nervous fever and fever caused by infection
| Features | Fever caused by stress | Fever due to infection |
|---|---|---|
| body temperature | Usually below 38 degrees | Usually above 38 degrees |
| Accompanied symptoms | Anxiety, restlessness, profuse sweating | Sore throat, body ache, chills |
| Duration | Short term and variable | longer to clear the infection |
| root cause | Nervous and psychological reaction | Presence of virus or bacteria |
When should we see a doctor?
If the fever lasts more than two days or is accompanied by other symptoms such as cough, chills or severe weakness, it should be checked by a doctor. At Mehrshadi Clinic, specialists diagnose the exact cause of fever and stress with physical and psychological examinations and provide treatment solutions.
Scientific methods of reducing fever caused by stress
- Hormones and body reactions show that stress and fever are directly related
- Deep breathing and muscle relaxation techniques to reduce the physiological stress response
- Adequate sleep and proper nutrition for hormonal balance
- Drinking enough fluids to help regulate body temperature
- Light exercise such as walking and yoga to reduce cortisol
- psychological consultation and stress management techniques
Frequently asked questions about the relationship between stress and fever
1. Can stress cause fever?
Yes, severe stress and anxiety can cause a temporary increase in body temperature, which is called nervous fever.
2. How long does a fever caused by stress last?
Usually, it is short-term and temporary, and the body returns to its normal state with the reduction of stress.
3. What is the difference between nervous fever and fever caused by infection?
Nervous fever is usually mild, has no infectious symptoms, and is short-lived, while fever caused by an infection is more severe and prolonged and has associated symptoms.
4. When should I see a doctor?
If the fever lasts more than two days or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as chills, weakness, or cough, it is necessary to see a doctor.
5. How to reduce fever caused by stress?
Nervous fever can be reduced with relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, healthy eating, drinking fluids, light exercise, and stress management.Summary
Stress can cause a temporary increase in body temperature, but it is usually not dangerous. By controlling stress, the negative effects of the relationship between stress and fever can be reduced. If you have a persistent fever or it is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to see a doctor. The specialists of Mehrshadi Clinic will help you restore the balance of your body and mind by combining physical and psychological treatments.
To read more about the relationship between stress and body health, you can read the related article at Healthline.
