Pyrexia, also known as fever, is an increase in the body temperature of an individual beyond the normal range. This increase in temperature is usually considered dangerous, but it is a natural defensive mechanism of the body to fight against infections. Pyrexia is usually associated with other symptoms such as lethargy, headache, cough, and cold. A mild increase in body temperature can be relieved by over the counter medications. A sudden and higher increase in the body temperature beyond the normal range should be treated medically as it could be due to some major illnesses such as a brain haemorrhage or cancer.