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From Inflammation to Fever: The Pyrogen Effect

Inflammation is closely tied to fever due to chemicals called pyrogens. Pyrogens are released into the bloodstream during inflammation, especially when the body is fighting off bacterial or viral infections.

These pyrogens, once released, travel to the brain where they interact with the hypothalamus, a small region at the base of the brain that acts as the body's thermostat. The pyrogens signal the hypothalamus to raise the body's temperature set-point - similar to turning up the thermostat in your home.

In response to the new set-point, your body uses several methods to increase its temperature.

For example, you might feel chills or start shivering as your body tries to generate more heat. Your body might also reduce blood flow to your skin to minimize heat loss, making you feel cold even though your core body temperature is rising.

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