What is Fever?
Fever, also known as high temperature or hyperthermia, is a condition specified by a higher body temperature than is considered normal. It's also referred to as pyrexia. A higher-than-usual body temperature, known as a fever, indicates that your body is naturally defending against an illness.
- Adults: Temperature more than 100.4°F
- Children: Temperature more than 100.4°F (rectally) or 99.5°F (measured orally or under the arm)
- The typical human body temperature is 37°C, or 98.6°F.
- A few degrees over normal indicates that the body is healthy and fighting an infection, which is often positive.
- If your Fever remains high after many days (over 102°F), visit your physician.
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Get A Second OpinionCauses of Fever
Fever can be caused by a number of different infections, inflammatory diseases, and ailments.
Possible causes of Fever
Fever is a sign of many types of infections:
- Flu
- Abscess
- Appendicitis
- Bronchitis
- Cellulitis
- Common cold
- Diverticulitis
- Ear infection
- Gallbladder disease
- Gastroenteritis
- Pancreatitis
- Urinary tract infections
Other causes of Fever
Fever can also be caused by inflammatory conditions, including:
- Arthritis
- Autoimmune disorders
- Cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
Life-threatening causes of Fever
In some cases, Fever may be a symptom of a severe or life-threatening condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. These conditions include:
- Brain abscess
- Epiglottitis
- Influenza, particularly in the very old or young
- Liver abscess
- Meningitis
- Pericarditis
- Pneumonia
- Septic shock
- Tuberculosis
Symptoms Associated with Fever
Fever is often accompanied by other symptoms, which may include:
- Elevated Body Temperature: A high body temperature above the normal range (98.6°F or 37°C) is a primary indicator of fever.
- Chills and Sweating: Alternating sensations of feeling cold and then sweating may occur.
- Headache: Many individuals with fever experience headaches or migraines.
- Muscle Aches: Generalized body aches and muscle stiffness are common symptoms.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired or lethargic is often reported during fever episodes.
- Loss of Appetite: Decreased interest in food or fluids may occur.
- Dehydration: Fever can lead to increased fluid loss through sweating and evaporation, potentially causing dehydration if not adequately replenished.
Diagnosis of Fever
- Fever is a symptom, not an illness. A doctor can tell if a patient has a fever by monitoring their body temperature, but they also need to find out what is causing it.
- They will be able to accomplish this with the aid of an examination, information about any new symptoms, and medical history.
- If the patient has had recent surgery, is experiencing another sickness, or has discomfort or swelling in one area, it is possible to identify the sort of disease that is most likely to be present.
- In order to verify a diagnosis, the physician might advise:
- a blood test
- a urine test
- imaging tests
The recommended course of treatment will depend on the cause of the Fever.
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Book an AppointmentTreatment for Fever
Treating a fever typically involves a combination of home remedies and, in some cases, over-the-counter or prescribed medications. Here's how to treat a fever:
- Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.
- Dress comfortably and use cool compresses to lower body temperature.
- Take over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if you have a low fever.
- Avoid overdressing and heavy blankets.
- Monitor symptoms and seek medical advice if needed.
Remember to consult with a Doctor before taking or giving any medications to children, and seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your Fever or its underlying cause.
Over-the-counter medications:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with fever discomfort.
- Follow dosage instructions carefully to avoid overdose.
- Avoid giving aspirin to children to prevent Reye's syndrome.
Prescription medications:
- Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections like strep throat or pneumonia.
- Antiviral medications may be used for specific viral infections.
- Rest and fluids are typically recommended for mild viral illnesses.
When to visit a Doctor?
Infants younger than 28 days might need hospitalisation for testing and treatment, as Fever could indicate a severe infection.
Take your infant to a doctor if they are:
- Younger than three months old with a temperature exceeding 100.4°F (38°C).
- Between 3 and 6 months old with a temperature over 102°F (38.9°C) and unusual symptoms.
- Between 6 and 24 months old with a temperature higher than 102°F (38.9°C) lasting more than one day.
Take your child to a doctor if they:
- Have a body temperature exceeding 102.2°F (39°C).
- Have had a fever for more than three days.
- Show signs of poor eye contact, restlessness, or irritability.
- Have a severe medical illness, compromised immune system, or recent travel to a developing country.
You should call your doctor if you:
- have a body temperature exceeding 103°F (39.4°C)
- have had a fever for more than three days
- have a serious medical illness or a compromised immune system
- have recently been in a developing country
Fever Symptoms That A Child or Infant Need to Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Seek medical attention if Fever your child is accompanied by:
- Severe headache
- Throat swelling
- Worsening skin rash
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Stiff neck and neck pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Listlessness or irritability
- Abdominal pain
- Pain when urinating.
- Muscle weakness.
- Trouble breathing or chest pain
- Confusion
Medical Evaluation:
- Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and tests to determine the cause of the Fever and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Home Remedies for Fever
- Keep the person with Fever at ease and avoid overdressing.
- Take a sponge bath or tepid water bath to help lower the Fever.
- Avoid submerging someone with Fever in icy water.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
- Popsicles can soothe sore throats and provide hydration.
- Apply a cool, damp towel to the forehead.
- Ensure the person does not feel overly cold.
