Fever in Adults: Causes, Symptoms and Care

Fever in Adults: Causes, Symptoms and Care

What Is Fever in Adults?

Fever in adults means the body temperature is higher than normal. A healthy body temperature is usually around 98.6°F (37°C). A fever is when the temperature reaches 100.4°F (38°C) or more. Fever in adults is often the body’s way of fighting infections.

How Does Fever Help the Body?

Common Causes of Fever in Adults

Fever in adults can happen for many reasons. Some are mild, and others are more serious.

1. Viral Infections

Viruses are the most common cause of fever. These include:

• Flu

• Common cold

• COVID-19

• Dengue

• Chickenpox

2. Bacterial Infections

Bacteria can enter the body and cause infection. This may lead to fever. Some examples are:

• Strep throat

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Pneumonia

• Skin infections

3. Inflammatory Conditions

Conditions like arthritis or lupus can cause fever in adults because they trigger body-wide inflammation.

4. Heat Exhaustion

Too much heat and sun can raise body temperature. This is called heat exhaustion or heat stroke, and it causes fever-like symptoms.

5. Medicines

Some medicines may cause fever as a side effect. These are called drug fevers.

6. Vaccines

After getting certain vaccines, adults may have a low-grade fever. This is a normal response.

Symptoms That Come With Fever in Adults

Fever in adults usually comes with other signs. Some of them are:

• Sweating

• Chills

• Headache

• Muscle aches

• Weakness

• Loss of appetite

• Feeling tired

• Dehydration

These signs help you know your body is not feeling well.

How to Check for Fever at Home

Use a digital thermometer to check your temperature. Place it under your tongue and wait for the beep. Always follow the directions. A reading of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher means you have a fever.

When to Worry About Fever in Adults

Not all fevers are serious. But you should call a doctor if you have:

• A fever for more than 3 days

• A temperature over 103°F (39.4°C)

• Chest pain

• Trouble breathing

• Rash with fever

• Seizures

• Confusion

• Severe headache

• Neck stiffness

These can be signs of a serious illness.

How to Treat Fever in Adults at Home

1. Rest

Stay in bed and get extra sleep. Your body needs time to heal.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink water, juice, or broth often. Fever makes you lose fluids quickly.

3. Take Fever Medicine

Use medicine only if you feel very uncomfortable.

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) helps lower fever.

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) works well too.

Follow the dose on the label. Don’t mix medicines unless your doctor says it’s okay.

4. Wear Light Clothes

Choose loose clothes and use a light blanket. Heavy clothes can trap heat.

5. Keep Room Cool

Use a fan or open a window. Don’t let the room get too hot.

6. Take a Lukewarm Bath

This helps cool the body. Don’t use cold water or ice.

What Not to Do When You Have Fever

• Don’t wear too many clothes.

• Don’t use alcohol rubs.

• Don’t skip fluids.

• Don’t take antibiotics without a doctor.

• Don’t panic. Fever is often harmless.

Types of Fever in Adults

Different types of fever in adults show how long or how often the fever happens.

1. Acute Fever

Lasts less than 7 days. Usually from a virus or bacteria.

2. Subacute Fever

Lasts from 7 to 14 days. May need more tests.

3. Chronic or Persistent Fever

Lasts more than 14 days. Could be from a hidden infection or another health issue.

4. Recurrent Fever

Comes and goes over time. Often seen in diseases like malaria or autoimmune disorders.

Fever and COVID-19

COVID-19 is still a common cause of fever in adults. Watch for these signs:

• Dry cough

• Sore throat

• Shortness of breath

• Body pain

• Loss of taste or smell

If you think you have COVID-19, test and stay away from others.

Fever and Work

If you have a fever, stay home. Going to work can spread infection. Go back only when:

• Your fever is gone for 24 hours without medicine

• You feel well enough to work

Complications of Untreated Fever

If you ignore fever in adults, it can lead to problems:

• Dehydration

• Fainting

• Kidney problems

• Brain issues (very rare)

Always listen to your body. See a doctor if anything feels wrong.

How to Prevent Fever in Adults

• Wash hands often

• Avoid touching your face

• Stay away from sick people

• Cook food properly

• Get enough sleep

• Stay updated on vaccines

These steps lower your chance of getting sick.

Foods to Eat During Fever

Eating helps you heal. Choose easy-to-digest foods:

• Rice

• Bananas

• Applesauce

• Toast

• Soups

• Yogurt

Stay away from oily and spicy food until you feel better.

Natural Ways to Feel Better With Fever

• Sip warm tea

• Use a cold cloth on your forehead

• Inhale steam for a stuffy nose

• Try honey and lemon for a sore throat

These help you feel better while your body fights the illness.

Fever in Older Adults

Fever in people over 65 may show differently. They may not always feel hot. Look for these signs:

• Confusion

• Weakness

• Falls

Always check temperature and call a doctor if unsure.

Fever and Chronic Diseases

People with diabetes, asthma, or heart disease need to be extra careful. Fever can affect these conditions. Talk to a doctor early if you have both fever and a chronic illness.

When You Need a Blood Test

Doctors may ask for blood tests if:

• Fever lasts many days

• Cause is unknown

• You have other serious symptoms

Blood tests help find infections and other issues in the body.

Fever During Travel

If you traveled recently and got a fever, tell your doctor. You may have picked up a fever-causing illness from another country, such as:

• Malaria

• Typhoid

• Dengue

Conclusion: Treating Fever in Adults With Care

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is fever always a sign of infection?
Most times, yes. But sometimes fever happens with inflammation or medicine side effects.

2. How long does fever in adults last?
Usually 1 to 3 days, depending on the cause.

3. What is considered a high fever for adults?
A temperature over 103°F (39.4°C) is high.

4. Should I go to work with a fever?
No. Stay home until your fever is gone for at least 24 hours.

5. Can stress cause fever?
In rare cases, extreme stress can cause a slight fever.

6. What is a low-grade fever?
A temperature between 99°F and 100.4°F (37.2°C–38°C).

7. Can adults take the same fever medicine as children?
Yes, but follow adult dosing instructions. Don’t take children’s doses.

8. Is it okay to exercise with fever?
No. Rest is better. Exercise can make your fever worse.

9. Can I eat meat during fever?
Yes, but keep it light and cooked well. Soup is a good option.

10. Should I cover up in blankets to sweat out a fever?
No. It may raise your temperature more. Use light blankets only.