With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, it is more important than ever to take note of our body temperature. Many people are unsure how to tell if they have a fever or not. A fever is a higher-than-normal body temperature that is usually a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as an infection. In this article, we will discuss the telltale signs of a fever and what you can do if you are experiencing one.
What is a Fever?
A fever is often defined as a body temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. It occurs when the body’s internal thermostat, called the hypothalamus, raises the body temperature to fight off an infection.
How Do I Know if I Have a Fever?
The most common way to check for a fever is by taking your temperature with a thermometer. There are various types of thermometers available that can be used to check body temperature, such as digital, ear, and forehead thermometers.
Telltale Signs of a Fever:
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High Body Temperature:
As mentioned earlier, a body temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher is usually considered a fever.
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Feeling Hot or Cold:
You may experience chills, shivering, or sweating if you have a fever.
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Headache:
Fever can cause throbbing headaches.
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Body Aches:
You may experience body aches and muscle pain if you have a fever.
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Fatigue:
Feeling tired or fatigued is a common sign of a fever.
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Loss of Appetite:
You may lose your appetite and feel nauseous if you have a fever.
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Dehydration:
Fever can cause sweating, which can lead to dehydration if not treated properly.
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Cough:
Fever can also cause coughing and congestion.
What Causes a Fever?
There are many factors that can cause a fever, such as:
- Infections (bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic)
- Autoimmune disorders
- Reaction to medication
- Heat exhaustion or heat stroke
- Cancer (rare)
When Should I See a Doctor?
Most cases of a fever can be treated at home with rest and over-the-counter medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, you should contact your doctor if you have:
- A persistent fever that does not go away with treatment
- A fever that lasts longer than three days
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Stiff neck
- Headache that does not go away
- Confusion or hallucinations
- Chest pain
How to Treat a Fever at Home
If you have a fever, there are a few things you can do at home to help reduce your symptoms:
- Get plenty of rest
- Drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost through sweating
- Take over-the-counter medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help reduce the fever and alleviate any pain or discomfort
- Take a lukewarm bath to help cool down the body
- Wear lightweight and comfortable clothing
- Avoid strenuous physical activity until your temperature returns to normal
FAQs
Q: Can a Fever Be Dangerous?
A: While most fevers are not dangerous, high fever (over 104°F) can cause seizures.
Q: Should I Go to Work if I Have a Fever?
A: No. If you have a fever, you should stay at home until your fever is gone.
Q: When is a Fever Considered a Medical Emergency?
A: A fever is considered a medical emergency if it is accompanied by severe headache, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, seizures, or chest pain.
Q: Can a Fever Cause Dehydration?
A: Yes. Fevers can cause dehydration due to the excessive sweating.
Q: Should I Give Medication to My Child If He/She Has a Fever?
A: Yes, you can give over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen to help reduce the fever and alleviate any pain or discomfort. However, it is always best to consult your child’s pediatrician before giving any medication.
Q: Can a Fever Help Fight Off an Infection?
A: Yes. Fever is the body’s natural response to fighting off an infection. It helps to increase the production of white blood cells and antibodies to fight off the pathogens.
Q: Can a Fever be a Symptom of the Flu?
A: Yes. A fever is a common symptom of the flu, along with other symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, and body aches.
Q: How Long Does a Fever Last?
A: The duration of a fever depends on its underlying cause. Most fevers resolve within a few days with treatment.
Q: Should I Take Antibiotics for a Fever?
A: It depends on the underlying cause of your fever. If it is due to a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. However, if the fever is due to a viral infection, antibiotics are not effective.
Q: Can I Get COVID-19 If I Have a Fever?
A: A fever can be a symptom of COVID-19, along with other symptoms such as coughing and difficulty breathing. If you have a fever, it is important to get tested for COVID-19 and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
Q: What Happens if I Ignore my Fever?
A: Ignoring a fever can lead to complications such as dehydration, febrile seizures, and in severe cases, organ damage or death.
Conclusion
A fever is a sign that your body is fighting off an infection or an underlying medical condition. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a fever can help you take appropriate actions to manage your symptoms and prevent complications. Remember to take your temperature regularly with a thermometer, especially during the ongoing pandemic, and to contact your doctor if your symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.
