The doctor is in

Internal Medicine,Moolchand Medcity,advises:

Fever is not a disease. It is a symptom of a disease or infection. Fever helps the body fight infections by making its defense system work more efficiently. High fever,with a temperature of 103° Fahrenheit and above,can signal a potentially dangerous infection. Use cold strips or sponge the child to lower the temperature. One can also take paracetamol or some anti-allergic tablets or antibiotics suggested by a physician. In case of a high fever — or if a low fever cannot be resolved with simple treatments — be sure to contact your doctor. Sometimes a fever can cause a chill. Be sure to keep your child well covered with blankets. Help him keep calm and let him drink warm fluids to prevent further heat loss. If the ears,face,nose,fingers,toes are cold,try to warm these areas. Make him sit close to a fire or heater,or wash the area in warm water.

I am 50 years old and have developed a heart problem. Do I need to take special precautions during winter? —B K Som

Dr K K Aggarwal,Senior Cardiologist,

Moolchand Heart Hospital advises:

Early morning tea can increase heart rate and precipitate high blood pressure. If you consume alcohol,remember,consuming 5 pegs in an hour can precipitate a heart attack. Avoid heavy meals at night. Do not ignore early morning chest pains in winter. It could be a heart pain. Winter mornings are also the time for brain haemorrhage. Cover nose and ears to prevent a chill. Winter chills with no shivering is a bad sign. Continue outdoor walks,but take your constitutional later in the day. Avoid eating foods that are too sweet,sour or salty.