Fever Symptoms and Causes You Should Know: Part 1

Fever Symptoms and Causes You Should Know

Fever Symptoms and Causes You Should Know

What Is Fever?

Common Fever Symptoms

Fever often comes with other symptoms. These symptoms can help you understand the cause of the fever. Here are common symptoms:

• High body temperature

• Chills or shivering

• Sweating

• Headache

• Weakness

• Muscle aches

• Loss of appetite

• Dehydration

• Irritability (especially in children)

Some people also feel hot or cold without a clear reason. Others may feel sleepy or confused.

What Causes Fever?

There are many causes of fever. Some are mild, while others can be serious. The most common cause of fever is infection. Your body raises its temperature to kill the germs.

Infections

• Flu

• Common cold

• Strep throat

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Ear infections

• Sinus infections

• Pneumonia

• COVID-19

Other Causes

• Heat exhaustion

• Vaccinations

• Autoimmune diseases

• Cancer

• Blood clots

• Some medicines

Sometimes, doctors may not find a clear cause. This is called "fever of unknown origin."

Fever in Children

Fever in children can be scary for parents. But most fevers in children are not serious. Kids often get fevers with viral infections.

Signs to watch in children:

• Very high fever (above 104°F)

• Lasts more than 3 days

• Poor feeding

• Trouble waking up

• Seizures

Always talk to your doctor if you are worried about your child’s fever.

How to Measure Fever

Use a thermometer to check the body temperature. You can use different types:

• Oral thermometer (mouth)

• Rectal thermometer (best for babies)

• Ear thermometer

• Forehead thermometer

• Digital thermometer (easy to use)

A rectal temperature above 100.4°F is a fever in babies. In adults, a fever is often above 100.4°F too.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes fever needs medical help. Go to a doctor if:

• Fever is over 103°F (39.4°C)

• Fever lasts more than 3 days

• You have trouble breathing

• You have chest pain

• You feel confused

• You get a rash

• You have stiff neck and headache

• You have a weak immune system

Don’t wait too long. It's better to get checked if you feel worse over time.

How to Treat Fever at Home

Most fevers go away on their own. You can treat them at home with simple steps:

• Rest well

• Drink plenty of water

• Take fever-reducing medicine (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

• Stay cool with light clothing

• Use a cool cloth on the forehead

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine

Do not use aspirin in children. It can cause a rare problem called Reye’s syndrome.

Natural Remedies for Fever

Some people prefer natural ways to manage fever. Here are a few gentle remedies:

• Lukewarm bath: Helps bring down body heat.

• Herbal teas: Like ginger or chamomile.

• Cold compress: On forehead, armpits, or neck.

• Fruit juices: To prevent dehydration.

• Honey and lemon: Soothe sore throat and boost energy.

Always check with your doctor before using herbs or supplements.

Fever and Infections

As we said, most fevers are caused by infections. The fever helps your immune system kill the germs. Here’s how:

• Fever makes it hard for viruses and bacteria to grow.

• Fever increases white blood cells.

• Fever helps your body heal faster.

But very high fever can be harmful. That’s why it’s important to keep it in control.

Fever in Seniors

Older adults may not show a high fever, even when they are sick. They may show confusion, fatigue, or just feel unwell. Always take even mild fever seriously in older people.

Watch for:

• Sudden confusion

• Falls

• Weakness

• No appetite

Seniors often need medical help sooner.

Fever and Dehydration

Fever can cause dehydration. You lose water through sweat. It is very important to drink fluids:

• Water

• Oral rehydration solutions

• Clear soups

• Ice chips

• Coconut water

Avoid soda or drinks with too much sugar.

Complications of High Fever

High fever can cause serious problems if not treated. These include:

• Seizures (especially in children)

• Dehydration

• Hallucinations

• Organ damage (in extreme cases)

That’s why it’s good to check and treat fever early.

Tips to Prevent Fever

You can't stop all fevers, but you can lower the risk:

• Wash your hands often

• Avoid close contact with sick people

• Stay up-to-date on vaccines

• Eat healthy food

• Drink enough water

• Rest well

Good hygiene and a strong immune system can protect you.

What Not to Do During a Fever

Some actions can make things worse. Here are things to avoid:

• Don't use ice-cold baths

• Don’t bundle up too much

• Avoid sugary or spicy foods

• Don’t skip meals completely

• Don’t ignore serious signs

Keep yourself comfortable, and don’t push too hard.

Fever and COVID-19

Fever is a common sign of COVID-19. But not all people with fever have COVID-19. If you have fever with cough or shortness of breath, get tested.

Watch for:

• Dry cough

• Fatigue

• Body aches

• Loss of taste or smell

Isolate yourself if you have symptoms. Follow health guidelines and stay safe.

Tracking Fever

It helps to keep a record:

• Write down the temperature

• Note the time of day

• Record any other symptoms

• Note what medicine you took

This can help your doctor find the cause.

Medications That Can Cause Fever

Some medicines can raise your body temperature. This is called drug fever. Common examples:

• Antibiotics

• Antidepressants

• Antihistamines

• Blood pressure drugs

If you feel feverish after starting a new medicine, talk to your doctor.

How Long Does Fever Last?

It depends on the cause. Most viral fevers last 2 to 3 days. Bacterial fevers may last longer and need antibiotics. If fever lasts more than 3 days, see a doctor.

Fever and Immune System

When Is Fever an Emergency?

Sometimes fever is a medical emergency. Go to the ER if:

• Fever is above 105°F

• You have trouble breathing

• You have seizures

• You are confused

• You have a purple rash

• You are very sleepy or hard to wake

These signs may point to serious problems.

Final Thoughts

FAQs About Fever

Q1. What is considered a fever?
A fever is when your body temperature is above 100.4°F (38°C).

Q2. Is fever always a sign of infection?
Most of the time, yes. But fever can also be caused by other health issues or medicines.

Q3. Can fever go away on its own?
Yes. Many fevers go away without treatment in a few days.

Q4. Should I treat every fever with medicine?
Not always. If the fever is low and not uncomfortable, rest and fluids may be enough.

Q5. When should I worry about a fever?
If it’s very high, lasts more than 3 days, or comes with serious symptoms, see a doctor.

Q6. Is fever dangerous for babies?
Fever in babies under 3 months is serious. Always talk to a doctor.

Q7. What foods help during fever?
Eat light foods like soup, rice, fruits, and drink plenty of fluids.

Q8. Can stress cause fever?
Yes. In rare cases, emotional stress can lead to stress-related fever.

Q9. Is fever contagious?
The fever itself isn’t, but the infection causing it may be.

Q10. Can I work out with a fever?
No. Rest is better. Exercise can make you feel worse when you have a fever.

Stay informed. Stay healthy. Fever is a warning, not a sentence. Take care early and live better.