When the body temperature rises above normal, it often indicates an underlying health issue, commonly an infection.

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What is a fever?

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What is a fever?

The body temperature can vary due to activities, meals, and time of day. A temperature above the normal range is considered a fever.

Fever is a sign that the body is fighting off an infection or illness. It is a natural response of the immune system to help destroy viruses and bacteria that are causing the infection. Fevers can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as heat exhaustion, certain medications, or autoimmune diseases.

Common symptoms of fever include sweating, shivering, headache, muscle aches, and a feeling of weakness or fatigue. It is important to monitor your temperature and seek medical attention if you have a fever that is persistent, high, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

What temperature is a fever?

A fever is typically recognized when the body temperature reaches 38°C or higher. Fevers are common in both adults and children and are usually accompanied by sweating.

It’s important to note that a fever is a symptom of an underlying illness or infection, rather than an illness itself. Fevers can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral or bacterial infections, inflammatory conditions, and certain medications.

If you or your child has a fever, it’s important to monitor the temperature and seek medical attention if necessary. In some cases, a fever may be a sign of a serious condition that requires medical intervention.

What is a normal temperature?

Body temperature fluctuates throughout the day, peaking in the early evening and dropping in the early morning. The average oral temperature is around 37°C.

It is important to note that normal body temperature can vary slightly from person to person and can also be influenced by factors such as age, activity level, and time of day.

For adults, a temperature between 36.1°C and 37.2°C is generally considered to be within the normal range. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider if you are concerned about your body temperature or are experiencing any unusual symptoms.

What causes a fever?

Fever is often the result of the release of specific chemicals by the immune system due to infections or inflammation. Most fevers are caused by viral infections.

Fever caused by infections

Fevers can be triggered by various factors, including gastrointestinal infections, childhood diseases like chickenpox, and vaccinations. It’s important to seek medical advice for fevers after traveling.

Fever caused by other conditions

Fevers can also be a result of conditions such as blood clots, inflammatory health issues, and certain types of cancers. Sometimes, the cause of a fever remains unknown.

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How common is a fever?

Children are more prone to experiencing fevers, while older adults are less likely to have high temperatures during infections.

Fever is a common symptom of many illnesses, including infections such as the flu or COVID-19. It is the body’s natural response to fighting off infection and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as chills, sweating, and fatigue. Fevers are also commonly seen in young children as their immune systems are still developing and may react more strongly to infections.

How do I take my temperature?

There are various methods to measure body temperature, with armpit and ear thermometers being common choices. Other methods include oral and rectal thermometers.

Signs of fever

If the forehead feels hot to the touch, cheeks are flushed, and you feel warmer than usual, it may indicate a fever. Other signs of a fever include chills, sweating, and aching muscles.

How to reduce a fever

Note: Although medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen can temporarily reduce a fever, they do not cure it.

Fever in adults

In addition to staying hydrated, it is important to rest and allow your body to recuperate. Over-the-counter fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help lower a fever and provide relief from discomfort. Make sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions.

You can also try taking a lukewarm bath or using a damp cloth to help cool the body down. Avoid bundling up in blankets or wearing heavy clothing, as this can trap heat and make the fever worse.

If the fever persists for more than a few days, or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing or severe pain, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of the fever and provide appropriate treatment.

How do you deal with a fever in children?

For children with distressing fevers, it’s recommended to use paracetamol and ibuprofen. Tepid sponging and adequate fluid intake are also essential.

When should you see a doctor about a fever?

Note: Fever itself is generally not harmful. However, it’s advisable to seek medical advice for high temperatures in specific cases, such as infants under 3 months of age.

Contact a doctor if there are additional symptoms accompanying the fever.

Fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, often due to infections. Mild fevers can assist the immune system in fighting off infections.

Severe fever does not always indicate a severe illness.

If a fever persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by symptoms such as severe headache, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe abdominal pain, or persistent vomiting, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

It is also recommended to consult a doctor if a fever occurs in a person with a weakened immune system, chronic medical condition, or if the fever is very high (above 103°F or 39.4°C).

Symptoms of fever

Symptoms of fever include feeling unwell, sweating, shivering, and having a flushed face.

Infection is usually the cause of fever

Fever is commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections, as well as certain chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or ulcerative colitis.

• Tropical diseases: such as malaria and typhoid fever can also lead to fever
• Medications: may sometimes cause fever as a side effect

Self-treatment suggestions for fever

Home remedies for treating fever include:

• Using paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower temperature
• Staying hydrated with water
• Avoiding alcohol, tea, and coffee to prevent dehydration
• Sponging the skin with tepid water to cool down
• Avoiding cold baths and showers to prevent trapping body heat
• Ensuring plenty of rest, including bed rest

When to see your doctor for fever symptoms

It’s important to consult a doctor if:

• Fever persists after 3 days
• Temperature is over 40°C
• Shivering, shaking, or worsening symptoms occur
• Unusual symptoms like hallucinations or rapid heart rate appear
• Feeling confused, drowsy, or experiencing severe headaches
• Recently traveled overseas

When to seek immediate urgent medical attention

Immediate medical attention is necessary if:

• Fever is accompanied by headache and stiff neck
• Rash does not blanche when pressure is applied

Diagnosis methods

Identifying the root cause of the fever is crucial for appropriate treatment. Additional tests may be required if medical history and examination are inconclusive.

Treatment options

Treatment should be tailored to the cause of the fever, avoiding antibiotics for viral illnesses and allowing the immune system to combat mild bacterial infections.

Fever in children

Children are prone to frequent infections, and body temperature may not always accurately reflect their health status, especially in infants and young children.

Immediate medical attention is advised if a child:

• Is 6 months or younger
• Has a rash or high fever
• Shows signs of dehydration or distress
• Has difficulty breathing or appears to be in pain

If you have concerns, consult a doctor.

Using a thermometer

It’s recommended to use a thermometer to monitor your child’s temperature, but keep in mind that it may not always reflect their health accurately.

Reliable thermometers can be found at pharmacies along with usage instructions. Seek assistance from the pharmacist if needed.

Treatment for fever in children

• Dress your child in light clothing
• Ensure they are hydrated with clear fluids
• Keep them cool and avoid cold baths
• Administer the correct dose of paracetamol based on age
• Seek medical advice for infants under 3 months of age

Fever can cause convulsions

Febrile convulsions can occur in children due to high fever, often triggered by infections. They are typically not serious and do not indicate epilepsy.

Symptoms include loss of consciousness, twitching limbs, breathing difficulties, and eye rolling. Stay calm and seek medical guidance.

Discover 8 natural ways to reduce fever without medication, including staying hydrated, sponging, and maintaining good nutrition.

Fever is a temporary increase in body temperature due to various factors. Here are 8 natural methods to reduce fever:

1. Stay Hydrated
   • Drink small amounts of water frequently
   • Hydration helps lower body heat
2. Sponging
   • Apply cold water to body surfaces
   • Repeat to lower body temperature
3. Lukewarm Baths
   • Relax muscles and cool the body
   • Boost energy levels and reduce stress
4. Vitamin C
   • Reduce oxidative stress and enhance immunity
   • Consume lemon juice for natural relief
5. Nutritious Food
   • Boost the immune system with vitamins
   • Opt for light foods during illness
6. Soups
   • Herb and spice soups improve blood circulation
   • Provide essential nutrients and energy
7. Fruit Juices
   • Supply sugars and vitamins for energy
   • Hydrate and cool the body
8. Comfortable Clothing
   • Wear breathable clothes
   • Aid in regulating body temperature

What is a fever?

Fever is a response to infections or allergic reactions, and normal body temperature can fluctuate. It’s essential to stay hydrated and monitor symptoms.

Fever is a result of underlying infections or diseases, triggered by the immune system’s response to bacteria or viruses. It is categorized based on the rise and pattern of temperature.

Temperature
– Low-grade fever: 100 to 101°F
– High-grade fever: 103 to 104°F
– Dangerous range: 104 to 107°F
– Hyperpyrexia: Above 106.1°F
Pattern
– Sustained fever: Variations of 0.5°F or less in 24 hours
– Remittent fever: Temperature rises and falls, not returning to normal
– Intermittent fever: Temperature increases but returns to normal daily
– Hectic fever: Variation of 2.5°F or more in a day
**QUESTION**
[Wang E. Top 5 fever myths and facts. Texas Children’s Hospital.](https://www.texaschildrens.org/blog/2016/11/top-5-fever-myths-and-facts)
Technically, a fever is any body temperature above 98.6 F (37 C), considered significant when above normal. It’s possible to have the flu without a fever.
Various illnesses, like cancer, RA, or colds, can cause fever and headaches. Hay fever, caused by pollen, leads to allergic symptoms like nasal congestion and sneezing. Rheumatic fever can follow strep throat, with symptoms like carditis and fever.
Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella typhi, is contracted through contaminated food or water. Scarlet fever, a bacterial infection, causes a red rash.
Chills and fever often occur together, but sometimes chills can occur with a normal temperature.