Fever Guide for Adults and Children
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Overview of Fever
A fever — a body temperature that has risen above normal — is most often triggered by an illness. Whether you are an adult or a child, a fever can make you feel miserable, yet it is rarely something to worry about. In some cases, however, a fever can point to a serious, even life-threatening, condition.
Fever symptoms generally ease within a few days. Plenty of over-the-counter options can bring a fever down, though sometimes leaving it alone is the wiser choice. After all, a fever is a key part of how your body defends itself against infection.
Signs and Symptoms
You have a fever when your body temperature climbs above the normal range. Keep in mind that a typical temperature may sit a few degrees higher or lower than 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 C).
What you feel during a fever depends on what is causing the illness. Common fever symptoms include:
- Dripping with sweat
- Shaking uncontrollably
- Headache
- Body Aches
- Appetite Loss
- Lack of energy
- Feeling Thirsty
When to Seek Medical Care
A fever by itself may not warrant a doctor's visit. Even so, certain situations call for medical advice for your infant, your child, or yourself.
For Infants. An unexplained fever in an infant is more worrisome than in older children or adults. Contact your child's physician if they are:
Under three months old: A temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 C) — no matter what other symptoms are present — is a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
Between three and 24 months: A temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 C) — regardless of other symptoms — means you should call your pediatrician or visit a walk-in clinic.
For Children: Seek medical attention right away if your child shows any of these signs:
- If they are listless or irritable
- If they have a severe headache or stomach ache, or have any other symptoms causing significant discomfort
- After being left in a hot car for an extended period
- If they have a fever that lasts more than three days.
- Appears disinterested and makes little eye contact with you.
- In particular conditions, such as a child with immune deficiency issues or a child who has a pre-existing illness, consult with your child’s pediatrician for guidance.
For Adults: See a doctor if your temperature climbs above 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Along with the fever, get medical help immediately if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Severe headache
- Unusual skin rash, particularly if it worsens rapidly
- Stiff neck and discomfort when bending your head forward
- Any type of confusion
- Uncontrolled vomiting
- Breathing difficulties or chest pain
- Pain in the abdomen or while urinating
- Convulsions or seizures
For Everyone: Whenever you have a fever and simply don't feel well, reach out to your primary doctor or a nearby immediate care center.
What Causes a Fever
A fever develops when the hypothalamus — the part of your brain that acts as your body's “thermostat” — shifts your normal temperature set point upward. As that happens, you may feel chilly and pile on extra clothes, wrap up in a blanket, or shiver to produce more heat, which pushes your temperature even higher.
A normal body temperature falls between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C). Although 98.6°F (37°C) is widely treated as the standard, your own temperature can vary by a degree or more from that number.
A fever or elevated body temperature may stem from any of the following:
- A viral infection
- A bacterial infection
- A fungal infection
- Heat exhaustion
Sometimes the cause of a fever cannot be identified.
Preventing Fever
Wash your hands before meals, after using the restroom, after spending time in a crowd or near someone who is sick, after touching animals, and while riding public transportation.
- Teach your children how to wash their hands properly: lather soap over the front and back of each hand, then rinse well under running water.
- Carry hand sanitizer with you for times when soap and water aren't available.
- Avoid touching your face, mouth, or eyes, since these are the main ways viruses and bacteria enter your body and cause infection.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and show your children how to do the same. When you can, turn away from others while coughing or sneezing to keep germs from spreading.
- Do your best to avoid sharing cups, water bottles, and utensils with your children and other family members