Can Inflammation Cause Fever?
December 11, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, inflammation can potentially cause fever. Fever is a natural response of the body to various conditions, including infection, injury, or inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s immune system response to infection, irritation, or injury, and it involves the release of various chemicals and cytokines.
When the immune system detects an invader, such as bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, or when it senses tissue damage or inflammation, it triggers a response to fight off the threat. This immune response can include the release of pyrogens, which are substances that reset the body’s internal thermostat, leading to an increase in body temperature, or fever.
Inflammation releases certain substances, such as interleukins and prostaglandins, which can act on the hypothalamus in the brain, the body’s temperature-regulating center. This action causes the hypothalamus to signal the body to generate and conserve heat, resulting in an elevation of body temperature, which is what we experience as fever.
Inflammation doesn’t always directly cause fever, but it is one of the common triggers. Fever can occur as part of the body’s response to inflammation, infections, autoimmune diseases, or other conditions involving the immune system.
It’s important to note that while fever can be a natural response to inflammation, it’s essential to monitor the fever’s duration and severity. Persistently high fever or fever accompanied by other concerning symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention.