Fever Symptoms and Available Treatment Options

Fevers happen when your body's "thermostat” – otherwise known as the hypothalamus – shifts your average body temperature upward, usually to combat an invading virus or bacterial infection.

The average body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can vary from 97 to 99 degrees for some individuals. A fever starts at 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. With some medical conditions and infections, fevers have been known to spike up around 106 degrees, which is considered a medical emergency.

Severe fevers of higher temperatures may require emergency treatment. However, mild fever symptoms can be treated through methods that do not require serious medical attention. Adult fevers are likely to be treatable from home, while fevers in infants and children may be critical and require being seen by a pediatrician.

Signs and Symptoms of a Fever

Fevers are results of illnesses, which can vary wildly in severity. They are also a symptom of your body's immune system fighting against infection.

Those who have a mild fever will often have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Shivers.
• Sweating.
• A low appetite.
• Signs of dehydration.
• Increased sensitivity to pain.
• Lack of energy.
• Difficulty concentrating.

Fevers mainly occur when the body is fighting an infection, but additional reasons for a fever may include:

• Overexerting during exercise.
• Overheating from hot weather.
• Immunizations.

Tips to Treat Fever Symptoms

Mild fevers can usually be managed at home by treating symptoms and keeping the person comfortable. Wearing light clothing will help keep you cool. Drinking fluids throughout the day also helps combat dehydration from sweating. In addition, light blankets can help keep the fever down if you feel chilled. If the fever is causing intense discomfort, acetaminophen, ibuprofen or even aspirin can help reduce your body's temperature.

However, it’s important to be careful when giving fever-reducing medicine to a child, as it may result in adverse effects. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider about using these over-the-counter medicines.

Chronic Symptoms of Severe Fevers

Even though most fevers are symptoms of mild illnesses, there are occasions where they are signs of critical sicknesses.

If a fever is accompanied by seizures, sleepiness, irregular breathing, a stiff neck, confusion, diarrhea, vomiting or ear pain, it could be a sign of a severe condition. Furthermore, any adult fever exceeding 103 degrees Fahrenheit requires medical attention.

If you feel your condition is an emergency, call 911 immediately. If you're experiencing a high fever, seek medical attention and visit ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care.

ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care provides the highest level of care and service. The emergency room is open 24/7, and the urgent care clinic is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. No appointments are necessary, and patients are examined by ER-trained physicians. Patients receive quality health care to meet their needs and only pay for the level of service they receive.

ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care is conveniently located at 1075 Medical Center Parkway, Maumee, OH 43537.