What happens to the BMR during fever?

• A. It increases
• B. It decreases
• C. It remains the same
• D. It fluctuates

Answer: (A)

Fever drives up metabolic demand. When the body's temperature climbs, immune activity increases and heat production is needed, which speeds up biochemical reactions and energy use. The basal metabolic rate rises by roughly 7–10% for each 1°C increase in fever, meaning the body needs more calories and fluids to support the heightened activity and thermogenesis. This higher energy expenditure is why fever is often followed by greater appetite needs and potential weight loss if intake doesn’t keep pace. So the best answer is that BMR increases. It does not decrease, remain the same, or fluctuate without a consistent upward trend during fever.