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Fever

While any temperature above your normal temperature range is considered a fever, there are different levels of intensity and severity.

People get fevers because the body’s trying to kill off a virus or bacteria that’s causing an infection. Body temperatures do vary slightly from person to person at different times of day, and depending on physical activity, climate and other factors.

The average oral temperature of an otherwise healthy adult is 98.6 °F.
In adults, a fever is considered to be an oral temperature of 100.4 °F or above.

If a fever lasts 3-5 days and medications don’t help, it may be time to visit Northern Nevada Urgent Care.

Fever Symptoms

An infection can go away within a few days and you may be able to treat it at home. Patients should try to remain hydrated and get lots of rest until the aches and chills subside.

Depending on what’s causing the infection (like a stomach bug), side effects may include:

Chills, shivering
Dehydration
Headache
Exhaustion
Muscle ache, weakness
Sweating
No appetite

What causes a fever?

A fever of over 103 °F can be caused by heat exposure, drug reactions, autoimmune disorders and non-infectious conditions. High fevers may indicate an infection has spread to the blood and other organs.

7 conditions that can cause a fever:

Appendicitis
Influenza
Some cancers
Meningitis
Pneumonia
Inflammatory arthritis
Urinary tract infection

Treatment usually involves at-home care. Yet, some patients may need oxygen, fluids or emergency care to fully recover.

High fever in children

When an infant has a fever, things can get complicated quickly. It’s important to treat fever quickly in children who are more sensitive to body temperature shifts. Fevers may cause dehydration, so it’s especially important for them to drink plenty of water and liquids.

Signs your child may have a fever

Younger than 3 months old with temperature 100.4 °F or higher
3-12 months old with 102 °F fever plus irritability and listlessness
Nausea and vomiting
Stiff neck or headache

If side effects are severe or don’t resolve in a few days, come to Northern Nevada Urgent Care, and let us support your family by determining the cause of infection and fever, and treating it.