Everything You Need to Know About Fever

What is Fever?

Fever involves a rise in body temperature. When the temperature is above 100.0 F (37.8 C) or 100.4 F (38 C), it is considered to be a fever. It may be due to an inflammation or other disease but is also common when the person has an infection. The normal body temperature is normally put at an average of about 98.6 F. Several signs also appear when one has an infection or an illness. Chemicals are produced by the body which signal the hypothalamus to increase the body temperature.

This blog is about fever and everything that one must know about it.

Fever Symptoms

It’s important not to mistake fever as a disease. In other words, it can be understood as a signal of sickness or infection in our body. The following are the common symptoms or signs of fever:

Common Symptoms of fever

• A feature of fever is shivering. If you feel sweating or even cold due to shivering then it could be that you are having a fever.
• Another common symptom of fever is high body temperature. When there is inflammation in the body, the normal body temperature tends to rise. This causes fever.

Severe Symptoms of fever

• If one feels restless or has difficulties to rest and relax, it may be a sign of fever.
• Some might feel confused about certain things. This is also another severe symptom of fever.

Fever Types

Intermittent Fever

Intermittent fever is characterised by normal temperature fluctuations. Also, fever is present for several days or weeks. Symptoms that are observed in patients include rickettsial diseases, malaria, cancer as well as autoimmune diseases. They should consult professional healthcare to get rid of it.

Remittent Fever

Remittent fever is when the body temperature rises and drops continuously. It can rise or fall within 24 hours or some days. You are free to take your time while the temperature slowly comes back to normal. The cycle in remittent fever is different from various sorts of fever.

Continuous Fever

Continuous fever is a fever in which the temperature is elevated above normal. It remains so for 24 hours and may not fall and rise by more than 1°C. It is usually closely associated with an infectious illness, for instance, typhoid fever, bacterial pneumonia or tuberculosis.

Hectic Fever

A fever with irregular temperature spikes, often due to infections like tuberculosis.

Relapsing Fever

A fever with recurring episodes, typically caused by Borrelia bacteria and transmitted by lice or ticks.

Diagnosing Fever

Fever is just a sign that the body is responding to an illness and can be ascertained by the use of a thermometer. An oral temperature higher than 100°F (37. 8°C) is usually regarded as fever. It is important to remember that body temperature is different in different people and at different times of the day. Therefore, the base temperature which defines a fever is rectal.

Fever has several diagnosis methods. They may be caused due to infection, inflammation, drugs, vaccination or autoimmune disease. Once the cause is known then the doctor can be able to prescribe the treatment.

Diagnostic Tests

Blood Tests

Blood tests mean the medical practitioner checks a blood sample to determine diseases, infections, or some conditions. Blood tests can diagnose microbial infection, tissue inflammation, tumours, diabetes and organ dysfunction. They assist healthcare providers in aspects of diagnosis, management as well as treatment of diseases.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests are those tests in which different kinds of technologies are used. Ultrasonic scans and Positron emission tomography are also some other methods. These tests enable one to identify injuries, diseases and situations.

Home Remedies for Fever Treatment

Rest and hydration: Make sure that loads of fluids are taken together with adequate amounts of rest.

Medications: Take Calpol or other paracetamol-based drugs or any above 400 mg anti-inflammatory drugs. Always follow dosage instructions.

Preventing Fever

• Tips on maintaining good hygiene: To maintain good hygiene one must keep washing their hands frequently. Moreover, they must avoid contact with individuals who are ill and cleaning of surfaces.
• Vaccinations: Get acquainted with the proposed vaccinations, to avoid getting an illness which results in fever.

When to go to a Doctor

Signs that require immediate medical attention:

• Pain with a fever that reaches 103°F degree or 39. 4°C.
• A rigid neck or a very bad headache
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe abdominal pain
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Confusion or disorientation

Conclusion

Fever can be safely treated at home and, more importantly, prevented by practising good hygiene and vaccines. However, it becomes important to understand when one needs medical attention. If you are in doubt about your fever or if you are worried, do not hesitate to consult with your doctor in Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital. We specialise in some of the best treatments and doctors useful to cure fever or any symptoms related to it.

Click here to read more about - Viral Fever: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Variation of the Fever in the Adult Population?

Heat term for adults is usually set at 100 degrees in terms of fever. The temperature of people can certainly differ but it is best to be measuring from 97°F to 99°F (36°C). 1°C to 37.

2. What are the Common Causes of Fever?

Fever can be caused by Flu or the common cold, bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, among them being urinary system infections. Other causes include chronic heart disease, chronic kidney disease and chronic illnesses.

3. Can we understand that Fever is due to Infection?

If your fever is a result of an infection, you will find other symptoms like chills, sweating, weakness, tiredness, muscles and joints among others.

4. When should I seek advice from a Healthcare Provider when I have a Fever?

You should see a doctor if the fever is climbing up to 103°F. If the fever persists for more than three days, it is alarming. Also, when you have signs that are severe or moderate that have not resolved, or you are unable to handle mild symptoms. You should also see a doctor when you have diabetes or chronic diseases or use medicines that can weaken your immune system.

5. What are some of the Homemade Remedies that can be followed to bring down the Fever?

Some home remedies are rest, hydration, warm baths, and loose or light clothing.

6. Is it Possible to have a Fever due to some Medications?

It is important to mention that drug-induced fever can develop. This sometimes occurs as a result of allergies, other effects, or rising metabolism in the human body. It is composed of antibiotics, antihistamines, and anti-seizure medications. If you have a rising concern that your fever is a result of medication, please contact your doctor.