Hummā al-Yawm (Ephemeral Fever): Historical, Etiological and Pathological Insights from Unani Medicine

Background: Ḥummā al-Yawm (Ephemeral Fever) is a well-recognized febrile entity in Unani medicine, characterized by its short duration and distinct etiopathogenesis. Classical physicians such as Hippocrates, Ibn Sīnā, and later Unani scholars provided detailed descriptions of its causes, clinical features, and differentiation from putrid fevers. Unani physicians described Ḥummā al-Yawm as a non-putrid, transient fever arising chiefly from sukhūnat (transient heat) acting on the Rūḥ (pneuma). Its causes include environmental heat, physical exertion, emotional perturbations, dietary factors, and closure of skin pores resulting in retention of vapours.  Objective: To present a concise overview of the historical background, etiological factors, and pathophysiological mechanisms of Ḥummā al-Yawm and its types as described in Unani literature.  Methods: A comprehensive review of classical Unani literature and contemporary translations was conducted, specifically examining the etiological factors, pathological mechanisms, and clinical presentations of Ḥummā al-Yawm (Ephemeral Fever).  Conclusion: Ḥummā al-Yawm represents a distinct febrile condition in Unani medicine with a clear theoretical framework. Understanding its classical concepts aids in accurate differentiation from other fevers and provides insight into traditional fever pathophysiology.