Fever, also known as high temperature, commonly indicates an underlying infection.
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It is important to monitor your fever and seek medical advice if it is persistently high or accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, severe headache, or confusion. You can help reduce a fever by staying hydrated, resting, and taking over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol. If your fever does not improve or if you develop any concerning symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.
What is a fever?
The body temperature can vary slightly throughout the day, with fluctuations depending on factors like the individual, body location, and time of day. A temperature above the normal range is classified as a fever.
Fevers are usually a sign that the body is fighting off an infection or illness. They can be caused by a wide range of factors such as viral or bacterial infections, inflammatory conditions, or heat exhaustion.
Common symptoms of a fever include sweating, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. It’s important to monitor a fever and seek medical attention if it persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms.
What is a fever?
A fever is typically recognized at 38 degrees Celsius or higher, but even temperatures exceeding 37.5 degrees Celsius can be considered mild fevers. Sweating often accompanies fevers in both children and adults.
What temperature is a fever?
Normal body temperature undergoes changes influenced by activities such as exercise, eating, and sleeping. The average body temperature hovers around 37 degrees Celsius, with the range of 36.5 to 37.2 degrees Celsius considered normal.
A fever is generally considered to be a body temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or higher. Fevers can be caused by infections, inflammatory conditions, certain medications, and other medical conditions. It is important to monitor your body temperature if you suspect you have a fever, and seek medical attention if necessary.
What is a normal temperature?
The immune system triggers fever by releasing specific chemicals in response to infections or inflammation.
Fever caused by infections
Certain conditions leading to fevers include gut infections, common childhood illnesses, and infections contracted abroad.
Fever caused by other conditions
Fever can also be prompted by non-infectious conditions like blood clots, inflammatory disorders, and certain types of cancer.
Signs of fever
If a fever persists without a clear cause, especially in cases of unexplained fever, seek medical advice.
How common is a fever?
Fever is common, particularly in children, and often resolves on its own without treatment.
How do I take my temperature?
Various methods are available for taking temperatures, with armpit or ear thermometers being common. Rectal thermometers are no longer recommended in the UK.
Other common methods for taking temperature include oral thermometers, which are placed under the tongue, and temporal artery thermometers, which are swiped across the forehead. These methods are easy to use and provide accurate readings.
It is important to follow the instructions provided with the thermometer to ensure an accurate reading. Make sure to clean the thermometer before and after each use to prevent the spread of germs.
How to reduce a fever
Medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen can help lower fever but do not cure it. Regular medication may be necessary to maintain a reduced temperature.
Fever in adults
For adults with a fever, it is important to stay well-hydrated and get plenty of rest. Avoiding strenuous activities and staying in a cool environment can also help bring down a fever. Taking a lukewarm bath or using a damp cloth on the forehead can provide some relief from the heat. It is important to monitor the fever closely and seek medical attention if it persists or if other symptoms develop.
How do you deal with a fever in adults?
Fever is typically associated with physical discomfort, and treatment approaches may vary based on age, physical condition, and underlying cause.
Some common ways to deal with a fever in adults include:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
- Rest and get plenty of sleep
- Take over-the-counter fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Use cool compresses or take a lukewarm bath to help bring down body temperature
- Wear lightweight clothing and use light bedding to help regulate body temperature
- Seek medical attention if fever persists for more than a few days or if other symptoms develop
It’s important to remember that fever is often a sign that the body is fighting off an infection, so it’s important to listen to your body and take care of yourself when you’re feeling unwell.
How do you deal with a fever in children?
For children, paracetamol and ibuprofen are recommended if fever causes distress. Tepid sponging is no longer advised.
When should you see a doctor about a fever?
If a fever persists for more than five days or is accompanied by symptoms like a rash, shortness of breath, or dehydration, contact a doctor.
healthdirect Australia offers a free service for consulting healthcare professionals to manage fevers.
If your baby under 3 months old has a fever above 38℃, go directly to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Key facts
- Fever is the body’s response to infection, resulting in high temperature, sweating, and chills.
- Using a thermometer to monitor temperature, along with rest and hydration, is recommended.
- If experiencing other symptoms like severe headache or confusion with the fever, seek medical attention.
What is a fever?
Fever is an elevated body temperature above 38C, which can be measured with various thermometers.
- Normal temperature varies based on factors like age and time of day.
- Clean the thermometer before use and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for accurate readings.
For more information on caring for a child with fever, refer to “Fever in children.”
What symptoms are related to a fever?
With a fever, a high temperature above 38℃ may lead to symptoms such as sweating, chills, shivering, and muscle or joint aches. Other common symptoms associated with a fever include headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, and dehydration. In some cases, a fever can also cause confusion, irritability, and sensitivity to light.
What causes a fever?
Fever is a part of the immune response, signifying the body’s efforts to recover. It can be caused by viral infections like cold or flu, as well as bacterial infections like UTIs. In addition to infections, other causes of fever include inflammatory conditions, certain medications, heat exhaustion, and certain cancers.
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Utilize the Symptom Checker to assess if medical assistance is necessary.
How is the cause of a fever diagnosed?
Doctors can determine the cause of a fever through symptom discussion and tests, varying based on additional symptoms or recent travel history.
When should I see my doctor?
Children under 3 months old with a fever over 38℃ should go to the nearest hospital emergency department. Seek medical help if fever lasts over three days, or in specific cases like recent hospitalization or immune system suppression.
When to seek urgent care
Adults with fever and severe symptoms like headache, vomiting, or breathing difficulties should head to the emergency department. Similarly, children with fever and concerning signs such as dehydration or breathing issues should also seek immediate care.
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Additional Information: It is important to seek medical attention if you experience persistent symptoms such as high fever, severe pain, or any other worrying signs. Remember that your health is important, and it is always better to be safe than sorry. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or visit a healthcare facility if you have any concerns.
How is fever treated?
Self-care at home
To manage fever, ensure hydration, wear light clothing, and get sufficient rest. Avoid cold baths and sponging to maintain comfort.
Medicines for fever
Take fever medications only for discomfort, following safety guidelines related to medical conditions, other medications, or pregnancy.
Can fevers be prevented?
Fevers are a natural response of the immune system to illness, indicating the body’s attempt to recover. Seek medical attention if fever persists or if other worrisome symptoms develop.
Complications of fever
Febrile convulsions in children may result from fever spikes but usually have no long-term effects. Consult a doctor if concerned.
In addition to febrile convulsions, other complications of fever may include dehydration, especially in young children and the elderly. It is important to monitor fluid intake and seek medical attention if dehydration is suspected.
Resources and support
If concerned about symptoms, contact the healthdirect helpline for assistance 24/7.
Additional Resources:
Sources:
Various reputable health sources
Last reviewed: March 2024
Recommended links
- Medication recommendations for children (opens in a new window)
- 5 questions to ask your doctor (opens in a new window)
Related pages
- Fever in babies and children – infographic
- Fever in children
- Managing fever in infants
- Common causes of fever in children
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- Thermometers
- Fever medicines
Need more information?
Trusted information partners offer more insights on this topic.
Fever and high temperature: kids and teens | Raising Children Network
If your child’s temperature exceeds 38℃, it’s likely a fever. Take appropriate measures for managing the child’s fever symptoms.
Fever in Children – Rahma Health
A fever is a temperature surpassing 38 degrees Celsius.
Fever – Better Health Channel
A mild fever can support the immune system in combating infections. Explore further details on fevers and infections.
Fever in babies
Learn to measure your baby’s temperature and respond appropriately if a fever is present.
Fever in babies and children – infographic
Discover how to handle a child with fever, when to seek medical advice, and options for home treatment.
Fever | Children’s Health Queensland
Uncover the causes of fever, treatment options, and when to seek professional help.
Fever factsheet | The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network
Fever is the body’s response to illness and infection.
Febrile convulsion factsheet | The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network
Febrile convulsions are temporary loss of body control due to high fever.
Hypothermia: Reversible Causes of Cardiac Arrest | Ausmed
Hypothermia, when body temperature drops below normal, can result from various causes and necessitates attention.
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Related pages
- Fever in babies and children – infographic
- Fever in children
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- Thermometers – Find a variety of thermometers to accurately measure your body temperature.
- Fever medicines – Explore our selection of fever medicines to help alleviate symptoms and reduce fever.
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Fever, elevating body temperature above normal due to infection. Normal temperature is about 37℃, but can vary. Fever from infection caused by immune system chemicals.
Fever severity not always linked to illness seriousness – e.g., meningitis can cause slight temperature rise. Most cases resolve within days. Mild fever can aid immune system. In children, fever can trigger convulsions.
Symptoms of fever
Fever symptoms may include feeling unwell, hot, sweaty, shivering, shaking, and flushed.
Infection is usually the cause of fever
Fever causes typically include viral or bacterial infections, chronic illnesses, tropical diseases, or drugs.
Self-treatment suggestions for fever
To address fever, take proper doses of paracetamol or ibuprofen, stay hydrated, sponge skin with tepid water, avoid cold baths, and get ample rest.
When to see your doctor for fever symptoms
If still feverish after 3 days, with temperature over 40℃, shivering, worsened condition, or unusual symptoms, consult a doctor.
When to seek immediate urgent medical attention
Immediate medical attention needed for fever with headache and stiff neck or rash that does not blanch.
Diagnosis methods
To effectively address a fever, it is important to identify the root cause. In cases where the cause is unclear, medical tests may be required. Treatment methods vary depending on the underlying issue, with antibiotics typically not being necessary for viral infections.
Statistic reveal that, on average, children experience around 10 infections per year. It is worth noting that a child’s body temperature may not always accurately reflect their overall health status.
If specific symptoms are observed in your child, seek immediate medical attention.
For accurate temperature readings in children, it is recommended to use a reliable thermometer. Keep in mind that thermometer readings may not always provide an accurate representation of the child’s well-being.
When dealing with a child experiencing fever, it is advisable to follow these steps:
– Dress the child in light clothing.
– Ensure they consume clear fluids.
– Maintain a cool environment for the child.
– Administer paracetamol in the appropriate dosage.
– Consult a doctor if the child is 3 months or younger.
– Avoid giving the child a cold bath.
Febrile convulsions, which are seizures accompanied by high fever in children, may lead to symptoms such as loss of consciousness, twitching, breathing difficulties, and foaming at the mouth. In the event of a convulsion, take necessary actions. It is important to note that febrile convulsions are generally not severe and do not result in brain damage.