The monsoon season brings rain showers and relief from the stifling heat, but it also brings a flurry of illnesses. Because our bodies take time to adapt to changes in climate, we become vulnerable to monsoon diseases, which is why we must be more vigilant. Malaria, dengue fever, typhoid fever, and many other water-borne infectious diseases are common and, at times, fatal. As a result, screening check-ups, such as fever profile tests, are essential in the monsoon.

What is a Fever?

A fever is a temporary increase in the body's temperature caused by the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature. When the immune system recognises an infection within the body, it begins a series of complex processes that generate more heat and activate the hypothalamus, causing the body's temperature to rise.

Without the assistance of a medical professional, determining the source of the fever could be difficult. As a result, when fever is associated with any of the following symptoms, it is advised to seek medical attention right away:

• Constant headache
• A temperature of more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Vomiting and nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Appetite loss
• Urine abnormalities: low output or dark urine
• Body ache

A physician may order blood tests for fever to find out the root cause of the fever.

What is a Fever Profile Test?

A fever profile test comprises a series of blood tests used to determine the underlying cause of fever and other related signs. It primarily consists of urine and blood tests aimed at diagnosing and determining the underpinning reasons for health problems including dengue, malaria, typhoid, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Many symptoms, which include dizziness, headache, chills, and sore eyes in addition to a fever, indicate the need for a fever test. The results assist doctors in recommending the most appropriate treatment, medication, and action plans to prevent the disease from progressing.

The following tests are included in the fever profile blood test list:

• Typhoid IGM test
• Peripheral smear malaria test
• Dengue antigen test
• Complete hemogram (CBC and ESR)
• Routine urine testing
• Blood culture

This is not an exhaustive list. The fever profile may contain more screening tests as well.