Normal and Therapeutic Nutrition

Normal and Therapeutic Nutrition 3(2+1)

Lesson 19:Fevers – Causes, types, dietary management

Metabolic changes in fever

• An increase in the metabolic rate @ 13 per cent for 10C rise in body temperature (7 per cent for 10F); increase is also due to restlessness and hence caloric need increases.
• Decreased glycogen stores and decreased stores of adipose tissue.
• Increased catabolism of protein places an additional burden upon the kidneys.
• Accelerated loss of body water owing to increased perspiration and the excretion of body wastes.
• Increased excretion of sodium and potassium.