Biology Forum Human Biology enzymes and fevers?

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    • #9480
      biolojerk
      Participant

      What does an ice bath treatment for a fever have to do with enzymes? I can’t seem to find anything in my book or online that tells what enzymes do during a fever and whether the temperature change is supposed to let them work better or worse…? I’m quite confused. Can anyone help me understand this? Thanks in advance.

    • #83478
      mith
      Participant

      Enzymes have optimal conditions.

    • #83481
      biolojerk
      Participant

      Well, if I had to answer the question ("use what you know of enzymes: why would someone who is taken to an ER with a high fever be given an ice bath to lower their temperature?") right now, I would probably say this:

      A high fever affects the enzymes’ ability to function correctly. The lower temperature brought about by the ice bath would bring the enzymes to a state where they could work properly and keep the patient alive.

      Does this sound about right? Do I have it wrong?

    • #83484
      mith
      Participant

      You’re good. Make sure you understand how exactly they’re being affected.

    • #83496
      Darby
      Participant

      And keep in mind that the ice bath is used to get the person’s temperature down closer to normal.

    • #83829
      calvin.ng.wh
      Participant
      quote Darby:

      And keep in mind that the ice bath is used to get the person’s temperature down closer to normal.

      Hence, while giving ice bath treatment, the client’s body temperature has to be monitored closely. We don’t want someone that comes in with hyperthermia turns into hypothermia. 😉

      Good luck.

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