What do fevers mean

If the person has recently experienced another infection, if they have recently had surgery, or if there is pain or swelling in one area, it may indicate what kind of infection is likely to be present.

A fever is usually a symptom of an infection. It is not usually a cause for concern, but the underlying illness may need medical treatment. Often, a fever will resolve without medical attention. However, if a child or an older adult has a fever, if the individual has other severe or worsening symptoms, or if they have a weakened immune system, they should seek medical help.

If they start to experience difficulty breathing, someone should call and ask for emergency help. Read the article in Spanish. Hyperpyrexia is a term for a very high fever of over This normally occurs due to another condition and is considered an emergency. What causes a fever, when does a fever need treatment, and what are the different ways to break a fever? Learn when a doctor should be called. A febrile seizure can occur in a young child when their body temperature suddenly rises, usually as a result of infection or inflammation.

Learn more…. The new coronavirus is spreading quickly and easily. Learn more about how a person can transmit the virus, as well as how to avoid it, here. A fever is when the body's temperature rises above It is the body's response to something wrong in one part or another, and it may…. Fever: What you need to know.

Medically reviewed by Kevin Martinez, M. Share on Pinterest A fever is a common sign of an infection. Taking a temperature. When should I worry? In children. Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Related Coverage. Hyperpyrexia: What to know about a high fever.

However, the normal body temperature for each person can vary slightly. Normal body temperature may also fluctuate depending on the time of day. It tends to be lower in the morning and higher in the late afternoon and evening. Other factors, such as your menstrual cycle or intense exercise, can also affect body temperature.

Shop for oral thermometers. You may also use an oral thermometer for an axillary, or armpit, reading. Wait four to five minutes before removing the thermometer. Find a selection of rectal thermometers online. In general, a baby has a fever when their body temperature exceeds A child has a fever when their temperature exceeds An adult has a fever when their temperature exceeds 99— Fever occurs when a part of the brain called the hypothalamus shifts the set point of your normal body temperature upward.

When this happens, you may feel chilled and add layers of clothing, or you may start shivering to generate more body heat. This eventually results in a higher body temperature. Care for a fever depends on its severity. Drinking fluids and resting in bed are usually enough to fight off a fever. When a fever is accompanied by mild symptoms, such as general discomfort or dehydration, it can be helpful to treat elevated body temperature by:.

Purchase acetaminophen or ibuprofen online. A mild fever can typically be treated at home. In some cases, however, a fever can be a symptom of a serious medical condition that requires prompt treatment.

You or your child should also see a doctor as soon as possible if a fever is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:.

Accessed April 5, Merck Manual Professional Version. Fever in infants and children. Bennett JE, et al. Temperature regulation and the pathogenesis of fever. Elsevier; Accessed March 25, Kliegman RM, et al. In: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics.

Accessed April 6, Ward MA. Fever in infants and children: Pathophysiology and management. Schmitt BD. American Academy of Pediatrics; Marx JA, et al. Pediatric fever. Accessed May 9, Infant fever age 90 days or younger. Mayo Clinic; Emergencies A-Z. American College of Emergency Physicians. Accessed May 18, Fever in the adult patient. Bor DH. Approach to the adult with fever of unknown origin.

Accessed May 30, Febrile seizures fact sheet.