This post was written Rhonda Sharp, MD, FAAFP, PPG – Family Medicine, associate chief medical officer, Parkview Noble Hospital and Parkview LaGrange Hospital.
Often a warm body temperature is a signal of something going on in the body. In this post we’ll unpack the function of a fever, managing any discomfort and when to seek medical attention.
What temperature ranges are considered a fever?
Generally, a fever is thought to be a temperature greater than 100.4° Fahrenheit. A lot of people ask if they should add or subtract a degree for various methods of taking a temperature. The only group that I would generally change the definition of a fever for is elderly people, who tend to mount less of a fever reaction compared to younger people. For this population, anything over 100° is usually considered significant.
What are the symptoms of a fever?
Symptoms of fever are varied and can change depending on age. An infant may be fussier than usual, not want to eat, or sleep more or less. Older children will often continue to play intermittently but not like their "usual" selves. They may not want to eat. Sometimes you will see flushing.
In infants we will sometimes see a "fever" due to overdressing or being in a very hot environment. Infants don't always cool down as effectively as older children and adults. Make sure not to overdress or overcover infants and small children.
As we get older, we tend to tolerate fever less and may exhibit achiness, fatigue, sweats, headache and, as the fever goes up, you might see "shaking chills" and chattering teeth. A higher fever might also cause confusion and seizures. If a person has a severe headache and/or neck pain with fever it can indicate a severe illness.
What's the difference between a low-grade fever and a fever?
A fever is a temperature above normal. Most fevers less than 103° can be treated at home if there are no unusual symptoms (like confusion). However, in the first 3 months of life, we tend to be more conservative and any temperature over 100.4° should be communicated to the provider.
Is it possible to break a fever?
The first thing to remember is that a fever is the body's natural defense against invaders, so we don't have to stop every elevation in temperature. But if you or your child is uncomfortable, you can potentially use acetaminophen or ibuprofen. You can also use a cool cloth on the forehead or face to give relief. You also want to take in plenty of fluids.
One of the things you do not want to do is a cold bath immersion. Parents will sometimes be concerned because a child has a fever and will put them in a cool bath to bring the temperature down. It’s effective in doing that however, it can do more harm than good. Children will sometimes have a febrile seizure or a seizure caused by a fever (not epilepsy). This type of seizure occurs due to the speed with which the temperature goes up. So, when you immerse the child, the temperature comes down nicely but when you take them out their temperature will often rebound and rise quickly, resulting in a seizure.
Is the process for breaking a fever different for a low-grade fever?
If a fever is not causing any significant discomfort, it does not always have to be "broken." But if the temperature is at 103° F, then if appropriate take acetaminophen or ibuprofen and seek medical attention.
How long can a fever last?
A temperature can last up to a week, but typically we will see a patient after 3-4 days of fever unless the fever is gradually decreasing. For example, with some illnesses, a temperature will continue to be elevated for a few days, but the peak lessens each day.
When should someone seek care from a medical professional for a fever?
If a fever is persistent for 3-4 days, you should contact your physician. If the person with a fever has confusion, cannot stay awake, cannot take in fluids (is dehydrating or no longer urinating) or is having seizures, then emergency treatment should be sought. Chest pain, shortness of breath, severe head pain are more reasons to seek care.
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