Can you Drink Coffee with a Fever?
When you have a fever, it can seem like the last thing you want is a hot cup of coffee. Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it causes you to urinate more and may make dehydration worse. However, research shows that drinking coffee when you’re feverish may not be as bad as you thought. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Fever?
Fever is a common sign of illness that your body uses as a defense mechanism. In general, a fever is defined as a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). When your body temperature rises, it is generally part of your body’s effort to fight off infection by making it harder for the virus or bacteria to survive. Fever is usually associated with symptoms like chills, fatigue, and body aches.
Should I Drink Coffee When I’m Feverish?
Despite the common misconception, research suggests that drinking coffee while feverish is generally safe—as long as it’s not too hot. While researchers do not recommend consuming multiple cups of coffee while you have a fever, there is some evidence that drinking one cup of coffee is not likely to hurt.
Benefits of Coffee with Fever
Coffee can provide a number of benefits for those with a fever. For example, the diuretic effects can help reduce fever-associated dehydration. Moreover, the caffeine in coffee has been shown to help reduce inflammation which can help reduce the body’s temperature. Plus, the warm liquid can provide comfort to those with chills or body aches.
Coffee Alternatives for Fever Care
For those who do not enjoy the taste of coffee, there are still several options. Decaf coffee is available in both hot and iced varieties, although it does not contain the same beneficial compounds as regular coffee. Additionally, teas and herbal drinks like chamomile and ginger can be great alternatives.
What to Avoid
When treated feverish, it is important to avoid drinks with high sugar content. Sugary drinks can contribute to dehydration and can make you feel worse overall. Additionally, you should stay away from drinks like energy drinks and soda, which contain high amounts of caffeine, as well as alcohol.
Importance of Staying Hydrated
One of the most important things to remember when you are feverish is to stay hydrated. The risk of dehydration increases when you are feverish, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice, and other drinks like juice and clear broth can be beneficial as well.
Lifestyle Changes
It is also essential to make lifestyle changes when dealing with a fever. For example, you should try to rest as much as possible. Additionally, taking steps to reduce your fever—such as taking a cool bath or sponge bath—can help reduce body temperature.
Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration
It is important to keep an eye out for signs and symptoms that may indicate dehydration. These symptoms include dry mouth, headache, dizziness, fatigue, increased thirst, dark urine and infrequent urination. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help right away.
Fever and Caffeine Intake
It is also important to note that when feverish, it is best to reduce overall caffeine intake. Even though drinking coffee while feverish is safe, it should be done in moderation. Additionally, other caffeinated beverages should also be limited.
Coffee and Fever Medications
When taking medications to lower fever, it is important to keep in mind that caffeine may interact with certain medications. Therefore, it is best to check with your doctor before drinking coffee when taking fever medications.
Closing Thoughts
In conclusion, coffee can be a safe and beneficial drink to have when feverish. As long as it is not too hot and consumed in moderation, drinking a cup of coffee may provide relief from the symptoms associated with fever. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind the importance of staying hydrated and the potential interactions between caffeine and fever medications.
