Having a high fever can be concerning, especially when it comes to children, but it is often a sign that the body is fighting off an illness. Knowing when to seek medical care for a fever is crucial.

When to Seek Medical Care for a Fever

If a fever is causing discomfort, particularly in children, it’s essential to keep an eye on symptoms and seek medical help if needed.

Signs to Watch For

• Rapid or difficult breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty waking up
• Constant crying
• Rash
• Vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
• Inability to urinate
• Abdominal pain
• Stiff neck
• Seizure
• Severe headache

When to Go to the Emergency Room

If a fever is accompanied by specific symptoms like confusion, difficulty breathing, or severe pain, seeking immediate medical attention is vital.

For Specific Cases

• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of consciousness
• Painful urination
• Seizure
• Severe pain

Rest, staying hydrated, and regular monitoring play a key role in managing a fever at home. If symptoms worsen or persist, seeking medical advice is recommended.

healthdirect Australia provides free advice from healthcare professionals to guide you on what to do when dealing with a fever.

If an infant under 3 months old has a fever above 38℃, urgent medical attention is necessary.

It is important to note that in case of a fever in a baby, especially in infants under 3 months old, immediate medical attention should be sought as their immune systems are still developing and a fever can indicate a serious underlying issue. Additionally, for adults, if a fever is persistent and accompanied by symptoms such as severe headache, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, it is recommended to go to the emergency room for further evaluation and treatment.

Additional Information on Fevers

• Fevers are usually a sign that the body is fighting off an infection, such as a cold or flu.
• It is important to remember that not all fevers need to be treated with medication, as sometimes they can actually help the body heal faster.
• If a fever is causing discomfort, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to help lower the temperature.
• It is recommended to dress lightly and keep the room temperature cool when dealing with a fever.
• If a fever persists for more than a few days, or if the individual is experiencing severe symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

Understanding Fever in Adults

A fever occurs when the body temperature is higher than normal. Monitoring temperature and symptoms is crucial for effective fever management.

How to Measure a Fever

A temperature above 38℃ is generally considered a fever. Various methods can be used to measure body temperature effectively.

• Touchless forehead thermometers
• In-ear thermometers
• Underarm thermometers
• Oral thermometers
• Rectal thermometers

Key Symptoms of Fever

In addition to a high temperature, fever may come with sweating, chills, or shivering. Monitoring symptoms helps determine the severity of a fever.

What causes a fever?

Fever is a part of the body’s immune response, indicating that the body is actively working to recover.

While commonly caused by viral infections, fever can also result from bacterial infections.

Assess your symptoms using the Symptom Checker to determine if medical assistance is necessary.

How is the cause of a fever diagnosed?

A doctor can identify the cause of a fever through evaluation and testing, depending on accompanying symptoms. For example, if there are respiratory symptoms, a swab may be taken.

Inform your doctor of any recent travel history.

In addition to evaluating symptoms and conducting tests, doctors may also consider other factors when determining the cause of a fever. These factors can include recent illnesses or infections, exposure to certain environments or animals, and underlying medical conditions.

It is important to communicate all relevant information to your doctor, including any recent changes in your health, medications you are taking, and any recent travels to areas with known infectious diseases.

When should I see my doctor?

If a baby has a fever above 38℃ and is under 3 months old, immediate hospital care is required.

If a fever persists for more than three days without improvement, seek medical attention.

Consult a doctor if you experience a fever after certain events or treatments.

When to seek urgent care

Adults should visit the emergency department if a fever is accompanied by symptoms like headaches, vomiting, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

For children with fever, seek emergency care if they are under 3 months old, dehydrated, or have breathing difficulties.

Find a healthcare provider using the Service Finder.

How is fever treated?

Self-care at home

If you have a high temperature, manage it by staying hydrated and cool. If concerned, consult a doctor.

Stay Hydrated

Drink clear, non-alcoholic fluids like water.

Stay Cool

Wear light clothing and maintain a comfortable room temperature.

Rest while experiencing a fever and avoid strenuous activities.

Additional tips for managing fever at home:

• Use a damp cloth to help cool your skin.
• Take a lukewarm bath or shower to reduce body temperature.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.

Medicines for fever

Only take fever medications if you are uncomfortable. Consider pain relief medications if necessary.

Ensure it’s safe to take any medication based on your medical condition, other medications, and pregnancy or breastfeeding status.

Can fevers be prevented?

Fevers are a natural part of the body’s immune response and cannot always be prevented. However, there are some steps you can take to help reduce your risk of getting a fever:

• Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs
• Maintain good hygiene practices
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Get plenty of rest to support your immune system

If you do develop a fever, it is important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if the fever persists or if you experience additional concerning symptoms.

Complications of fever

Febrile convulsions are seizures in children due to fever, usually without long-term effects. Consult a doctor if worried about febrile convulsions.

Other complications of fever may include dehydration, especially in young children. It is important to ensure the child is drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. In some cases, high fever can also lead to delirium or confusion, which may require medical attention.

If a fever is persistent or accompanied by severe headache, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Fever can be a sign of a serious underlying condition that may require treatment.

Resources and support

If you have concerns about symptoms, contact the healthdirect helpline for assistance. They are available to provide guidance and support regarding your health concerns.

Sources:

Various health resources as of March 2024. It is important to stay informed and up to date on the latest health information to make informed decisions about your health.

Recommended links

• Recommendations for children’s medicines
• 5 questions to ask your doctor

Related pages

• Infographic on fever in babies and children
• Information on fever in children
• Tips for managing fever in children
• When to seek medical attention for a child’s fever

Search our site for

• Types of thermometers
• Medications for fever
• Home remedies for reducing fever
• When to seek medical help for a fever
• Tips for preventing fever and staying healthy

Need more information?

Explore more information on this topic through trusted partners.

Fever and high temperature: kids and teens | Raising Children Network

If your child has a high temperature, follow guidelines for managing it.

Fever in Children – Rahma Health

A fever is defined as a temperature above 38 degrees Celsius.

Fever – Better Health Channel

Mild fevers can aid the immune system in fighting infections.

Learn more about fever and infections.

Fever in babies

Learn how to manage your baby’s fever with a thermometer and what steps to take if your baby has a fever.

Fever in babies and children – infographic

Understand what to do if your child has a fever and when to seek medical attention.

Fever | Children’s Health Queensland

Discover the causes of fever, treatment options, and when to seek 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 seizures due to high fever with no long-term consequences.

Hypothermia: Reversible Causes of Cardiac Arrest | Ausmed

Explore information on hypothermia and body temperature regulation.

Disclaimer

Healthdirect Australia is not responsible for external website content.

Related pages

• Infographic on fever in babies and children
• Information on fever in children

Search our site for

• Types of thermometers
• Medications for fever
• Tips for reducing fever
• When to seek medical help for a fever

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When you or a family member experiences a high fever, especially in a child, it can be frightening. However, fevers are often a sign of the body’s fight against illness. Sometimes, monitoring is enough, but seeking medical care may also be necessary.

Stay Home

If a fever isn’t causing discomfort for individuals over three months old and doesn’t meet certain criteria, staying at home is acceptable. It’s now advised to only treat a fever if it’s uncomfortable.

For children between three months and two years old with a fever under 102 and no emergency symptoms, home treatment is appropriate. Fevers in babies under three months should be assessed immediately.

Urgent Care

If a fever is accompanied by pain during urination, it might be a UTI. Evaluation is warranted if there is mild to moderate vomiting with no blood.

If a fever above 101.9 continues for five days in individuals over two years old without access to primary care, seek medical assessment. Similarly, if a fever above 102 lasts over two days without emergency symptoms, medical care is recommended.

If a fever under 101.9 lasts three days in children aged six months to two years without access to primary care, visit an Urgent Care center. If a fever of 102 or higher persists for 24 hours in this age group, seek medical attention.

Emergency Room

If you have a 102-degree fever and fall into specific categories like pregnancy, immunocompromised, or a child between three and six months old, head to the ER. Also, specific symptoms accompanying a fever warrant a trip to the ER.

• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Chest pain
• Debilitating headache
• Rash
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea with signs of dehydration or blood

Any infant under three months with a fever of 100.4 or higher should be taken to the hospital immediately. Fevers in infants can have serious implications.

If unsure where to seek care, refer to the guide below:

If it’s a life- or limb-threatening situation, call 911 or go to the ER.

Primary Care – Reach out to your healthcare provider for your general health concerns.

Virtual Clinic – Book an appointment through MyChart or explore more about Primary Care On Demand.

MD Express Urgent Care – Locate a convenient facility for urgent care outside of regular office hours or when your provider is not accessible.

If you are uncertain, contact Riverside Nurse around the clock at 1-800-675-6368