What constitutes a fever in adults versus newborns. How to accurately measure body temperature in infants. When should you seek medical attention for a fever. What are the potential causes of fever in newborns.

Understanding Fever: What Temperature is Considered Feverish?

Fever is the body’s natural response to infection or illness, but what exactly constitutes a fever? For adults and older children, a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is generally considered a fever. However, the threshold for fever can vary depending on age and other factors.

In newborns and young infants, fever is defined differently due to their immature temperature regulation systems. For babies under 2 months old, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered a fever and requires immediate medical attention. In older infants and young children, a fever is typically defined as a rectal temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.

Low-Grade Fever vs. High-Grade Fever

A low-grade fever is generally considered to be a temperature between 99°F (37.2°C) and 100.4°F (38°C). While it may cause some discomfort, a low-grade fever usually doesn’t require medical intervention. A high-grade fever, on the other hand, is typically defined as a temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher and may warrant medical attention, especially if accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Fever in Newborns: A Cause for Concern

Fever in newborns requires special attention due to their underdeveloped immune systems and temperature regulation mechanisms. Unlike adults, newborns may not always develop a fever when fighting an infection. In some cases, especially with premature babies, they may even experience a drop in body temperature when ill.

If your baby is younger than 2 months old and has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical evaluation. This could indicate a serious infection that requires prompt treatment.

Potential Causes of Fever in Newborns

• Infection (bacterial or viral)
• Overheating due to excessive bundling or environmental factors
• Dehydration or low fluid intake
• In rare cases, serious conditions like bacterial meningitis

How to Accurately Measure Temperature in Infants

Accurately measuring a baby’s temperature is crucial for determining whether they have a fever. For infants up to 3 years old, rectal temperature measurement is considered the most accurate method.

Steps for Taking a Rectal Temperature:

1. Place the baby on their stomach across your lap or on a changing table.
2. Lubricate the thermometer bulb with a water-soluble jelly.
3. Gently insert the thermometer about 1/2 to 1 inch into the rectum.
4. Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps or the reading is stable.
5. Never leave a baby unattended with a thermometer inserted.

For babies older than 3 months, underarm (axillary) temperature measurements can be used as an alternative, although they may be less accurate than rectal readings.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Fever

Knowing when to call the doctor about a fever can be crucial for your child’s health. Here are some general guidelines:

• For infants under 2 months: Any rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher requires immediate medical attention.
• For babies 3-6 months old: Call the doctor if the temperature is 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
• For children over 6 months: A temperature over 103°F (39.4°C) may warrant a call to the doctor, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Trust your instincts as a parent. If your child seems unusually ill or you’re concerned, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.

Preventing Overheating in Infants

While it’s important to keep babies warm, overheating can be dangerous and may lead to fever-like symptoms. Here are some tips to prevent overheating:

• Maintain room temperature between 68-72°F (20-22°C).
• Dress your baby in layers that can be easily removed if they get too warm.
• Avoid over-bundling, especially when in a heated car or near heat sources.
• Never leave a baby alone in a car, even for a short time, as temperatures can rise quickly.

Signs of overheating in a baby may include a flushed face, restlessness, and feeling hot to the touch. If you suspect your baby is overheated, remove some layers of clothing and move them to a cooler environment.

Managing Fever at Home: Tips and Techniques

While high fevers or fevers in very young infants require medical attention, there are ways to manage lower-grade fevers at home for older infants and children:

• Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
• Dress the child in lightweight clothing.
• Keep the room temperature comfortable, not too hot or cold.
• Use a lukewarm compress on the forehead.
• For children over 6 months, consider fever-reducing medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (always consult with a doctor first).

Remember, fever is often a sign that the body is fighting off an infection. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s not always necessary to lower the temperature unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Understanding the Role of Fever in the Body’s Defense Mechanism

Fever plays a crucial role in the body’s natural defense against infections. When the body detects pathogens like bacteria or viruses, it raises its temperature to create an environment less favorable for these invaders to thrive. This elevated temperature also enhances the function of the immune system, helping it to fight off the infection more effectively.

Benefits of Fever

• Slows down the reproduction of bacteria and viruses
• Increases the production of white blood cells
• Enhances the activity of existing immune cells
• Stimulates the production of antibodies

While these benefits are important, it’s crucial to monitor fever closely, especially in young children and infants, as very high temperatures can be dangerous.

Myths and Misconceptions About Fever

There are many common misconceptions about fever that can lead to unnecessary worry or inappropriate treatment. Let’s debunk some of these myths:

Myth 1: Fever is a disease

Fact: Fever is a symptom, not a disease itself. It’s the body’s natural response to fighting infection or illness.

Myth 2: All fevers are dangerous and need to be treated immediately

Fact: Most fevers are beneficial and don’t require treatment unless they’re causing significant discomfort or are very high.

Myth 3: Fever will keep rising if left untreated

Fact: The body has internal mechanisms to prevent fever from rising to dangerous levels in most cases.

Myth 4: Fever causes brain damage

Fact: Typical fevers (under 105°F or 40.5°C) do not cause brain damage. Only extremely high fevers, usually associated with heat stroke, can potentially harm the brain.

Understanding these facts can help parents and caregivers respond more appropriately to fevers in children and infants.

The Impact of Age on Fever Response and Treatment

The way we interpret and respond to fever changes significantly based on a person’s age. Let’s explore how age affects fever response and treatment strategies:

Newborns (0-2 months)

Newborns have immature immune systems and temperature regulation mechanisms. Any fever in this age group is considered serious and requires immediate medical attention. Even a slight elevation in temperature (100.4°F or 38°C rectal temperature) warrants a thorough medical evaluation to rule out potentially serious infections.

Infants (2-12 months)

While fevers in this age group are often less concerning than in newborns, they still require close monitoring. Fevers above 102°F (38.9°C) or those lasting more than a day should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Dehydration is a particular concern in this age group, so ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial.

Toddlers and Preschoolers (1-5 years)

Children in this age group often experience fevers due to common viral infections. While high fevers can be alarming, they’re generally less concerning if the child is still active, drinking fluids, and responsive. However, fevers lasting more than three days or accompanied by other worrying symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.

School-Age Children (6-12 years)

Older children typically have more robust immune systems and can often tolerate fevers better than younger children. Focus on keeping them comfortable and well-hydrated. Fever-reducing medications can be used if the child is uncomfortable, but aren’t always necessary if the child is feeling relatively well.

Teenagers and Adults

In this age group, fevers are generally less concerning unless they’re very high (above 103°F or 39.4°C), persist for several days, or are accompanied by severe symptoms. Adults and teens can usually manage low-grade fevers at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter fever reducers if needed.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Individual circumstances may vary, and it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure about how to manage a fever.

Fever and Its Relationship to Various Illnesses

Fever is a common symptom associated with many different illnesses and conditions. Understanding the relationship between fever and various diseases can help in recognizing potential health issues and seeking appropriate care.

Viral Infections

Many common viral infections, such as the flu, common cold, or COVID-19, can cause fever. These fevers often develop gradually and may be accompanied by other symptoms like body aches, fatigue, and respiratory issues. Viral fevers typically resolve on their own within a few days to a week.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections often cause higher fevers than viral infections. Examples include strep throat, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. These fevers may come on more suddenly and are often accompanied by other specific symptoms depending on the location of the infection. Bacterial infections typically require antibiotic treatment.

Autoimmune Disorders

Some autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, can cause recurrent or persistent low-grade fevers. These fevers are often accompanied by other symptoms specific to the condition, such as joint pain or skin rashes.

Cancers

Certain types of cancer, particularly blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, can cause persistent or recurring fevers. These fevers are often accompanied by other symptoms like unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or enlarged lymph nodes.

Heat-Related Illnesses

Conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke can cause a rapid rise in body temperature, often accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, confusion, and lack of sweating. These conditions require immediate medical attention.

While fever is a common symptom in many illnesses, it’s important to consider the overall context, including other symptoms, duration of fever, and individual risk factors. If you’re unsure about the cause of a fever or if it’s accompanied by concerning symptoms, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

The Role of Fever-Reducing Medications

Fever-reducing medications, also known as antipyretics, can be useful tools in managing fever and its associated discomfort. However, it’s important to understand when these medications are necessary and how to use them safely.

Common Fever-Reducing Medications

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Aspirin (not recommended for children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome)

When to Use Fever Reducers

Fever-reducing medications are not always necessary. They should be considered when:

• The fever is causing significant discomfort or pain
• The fever is very high (typically above 102°F or 39°C)
• The person is at risk for complications from fever (e.g., history of febrile seizures)

Proper Use of Fever Reducers

When using fever-reducing medications, it’s crucial to follow these guidelines:

• Always follow the dosage instructions on the package or as directed by a healthcare provider
• Use the correct dosing device (e.g., measuring cup or syringe) to ensure accurate dosing
• Do not exceed the recommended daily dose
• Be aware of other medications that may contain the same active ingredients to avoid overdosing

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While generally safe when used as directed, fever-reducing medications can have side effects:

• Acetaminophen: Can cause liver damage if taken in large doses or combined with alcohol
• Ibuprofen: May cause stomach upset or increase the risk of bleeding, especially in high doses or with long-term use
• Both: Can mask symptoms of underlying conditions if overused

It’s important to remember that while these medications can help manage fever and discomfort, they do not treat the underlying cause of the fever. If fever persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider.

Fever and Its Impact on Sleep and Recovery

Fever can significantly affect sleep patterns and overall recovery from illness. Understanding this relationship can help in managing fever more effectively and promoting faster healing.

How Fever Affects Sleep

Fever can disrupt normal sleep patterns in several ways:

• Increased body temperature can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep
• Fever often causes discomfort, aches, and chills that can interfere with sleep
• The body’s fight against infection can lead to increased sleep needs, but fever may make it difficult to get quality sleep

The Importance of Sleep in Recovery

Despite the challenges, sleep is crucial for recovery during illness:

• Sleep boosts the immune system, helping the body fight off infections more effectively
• During sleep, the body produces cytokines, proteins that help fight inflammation and infection
• Adequate rest allows the body to conserve energy for healing

Strategies for Improving Sleep with Fever

To promote better sleep while managing a fever:

When Your Newborn Has a Fever

As adults, we have a tightly controlled thermostat to help regulate our body temperature. When we’re cold, we shiver to help raise our temperature, and when we’re too hot, we sweat to help cool ourselves down. These mechanisms, on the other hand, are not completely developed in newborns. What’s more, newborns lack the insulating fat layer that older babies and children develop.

Because a newborn’s temperature regulation system is immature, fever may or may not occur with infection or illness. However, fever in babies can be due to other causes that may be even more serious. Call your baby’s doctor immediately if your baby younger than 2 months old has a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher. This requires an urgent evaluation by your doctor

In older infants and young children, a fever is any rectal temperature of 101 degrees or higher. Call the doctor if your 3-6 month old has a temperature of 101 or greater. With babies and children older than 6 months, you may need to call if the temperature is greater than 103, but more than likely, associated symptoms will prompt a call. A rectal temperature between 99 and 100 degrees is a low-grade fever, and usually does not need a doctor’s care.

Fever in newborns may be due to:

• 
  InfectionFever is a normal response to infection in adults, but only about half of newborns with an infection have a fever. Some, especially premature babies, may have a lowered body temperature with infection or other signs such as a change in behavior, feeding, or color.

• 
  OverheatingWhile it’s important to keep your baby from becoming chilled, your baby can also become overheated with many layers of clothing and blankets. This can occur at home, near heaters, or near heat vents. It can also occur if your baby is over-bundled in a heated car. Never leave your baby alone in a closed car, even for a minute. The temperature can rise quickly and cause heat stroke and death.If your baby is overheated, he or she may have a hot, red, or flushed face, and may be restless. To prevent overheating, keep rooms at a normal temperature, about 72 to 75 degrees, and dress your baby the same way you feel comfortable at that temperature.

• 
  Low fluid intake or dehydrationSome babies may not take in enough fluids, which causes a rise in body temperature. This may happen around the second or third day after birth. If fluids are not replaced with increased feedings, dehydration (excessive loss of body water) can develop and cause serious complications. Intravenous (IV) fluids may be needed to treat dehydration.

In extremely rare cases, fever can signal a life-threatening disease called bacterial meningitis. If your infant has a fever greater than 101 degrees and is lethargic or you can’t get him or her to wake up normally, you should take your infant to the emergency room immediately.

Taking Baby’s Temperature

For babies and toddlers up to 3 years old, taking the temperature rectally, by placing a thermometer in the baby’s anus, is best. This method is accurate and will give a quick reading of your baby’s internal temperature.

Underarm temperature measurements may be used for babies ages 3 months and older. Other types of thermometers, such as ear thermometers, may not be accurate for newborns and require careful positioning to get a precise reading. Skin strips that are pressed on the skin to measure temperature are not recommended for babies. Touching your baby’s skin can let you know if he or she is warm or cool, but you cannot measure body temperature simply by touch.

Oral and rectal thermometers have different shapes and one should not be substituted for the other. Do not use oral thermometers rectally as these can cause injury. Rectal thermometers have a security bulb designed specifically for safely taking rectal temperatures. To take your infant’s rectal temperature, follow these steps:

• Place your baby across your lap or changing table, on his or her stomach, facing down. Place your hand nearest your baby’s head on his or her lower back and separate your baby’s buttocks with your thumb and forefinger.

• Using your other hand, gently insert the lubricated bulb end of the thermometer one-half inch to one inch, or just past the anal sphincter muscle. Stop immediately if the thermometer meets resistance.

• The thermometer should be pointed toward your baby’s navel.

• Hold the thermometer with one hand on your baby’s buttocks so the thermometer will move with your baby. Use the other hand to comfort your baby and prevent moving.

• Never leave your baby unattended with a rectal thermometer inserted. Movement or a change in position can cause the thermometer to break.

• Hold the thermometer for at least 1 minute or until an electronic thermometer beeps or signals.

• Remove the thermometer.

• Wipe the bulb.

• Read the thermometer immediately and write down the temperature, date, and time of day.

• Disinfect the thermometer with rubbing alcohol or an antiseptic solution.

If your baby’s temperature is 100.4 degrees or higher, make sure he or she is not crying or dressed too warmly. Retake your baby’s temperature again in about 30 minutes. If the temperature is still high, call your baby’s doctor immediately.

How to Treat a Fever

If your baby’s temperature doesn’t warrant a call to the doctor, there are steps you can take at home to help lower the fever:

• Bathe your baby in lukewarm water. Never use cold water or alcohol to bathe your baby because it may cause shivering and actually increase body temperature.

• Dress your baby in light, comfortable clothing.

• Make sure your baby is getting enough fluids to prevent dehydration.

• NEVER give your baby aspirin to treat a fever. Aspirin has been linked to Reye’s syndrome, a rare but potentially serious illness that affects the nervous system and can be debilitating or even fatal in children.

• Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are the two medications for children that help fight fever. Acetaminophen can be given to infants over 3 months without calling the doctor but children less than 6 months old should not be given ibuprofen. Read the instructions on the package or ask your doctor to be sure you give appropriate doses. Do not give more than the recommended dose of either medication. If your child is vomiting or dehydrated be sure to consult your pediatrician.

Fever in child age birth to 3 years old | child with temperature

What is a fever?
Fever is a common symptom of illness.  We define a fever as a temperature of 100.5 F (38 C) or higher.  The height of a fever does not determine the cause of the illness but can be an important clue. Fever is just one indicator of how a child is doing, and we always encourage parents to look at the overall behavior of their child considering such things as fussiness, clinging, work of breathing, interest in feeding, consolability etc.  If you child is ill and you are worried, we want to hear from you or see you in person.

How do I take my child’s temperature?
In general we encourage at home use of digital thermometers and using an armpit or oral temperature. Rectal temperatures are more accurate but more difficult to take.  Rectal temperatures are a bit easier with infants and the precise temperature is more important with infants. Temperature taken in the armpit is usually 1 degree lower than an oral temperature. We will use a temperature obtained in our office for clinical decision making about how much testing is needed to diagnose a cause, and will rely on home temperatures and parental perception of severity of illness to guide us on whether or not an appointment is needed.

Do I need to bring my child to the office?
Any infant less than 3 months of age with a fever should be evaluated in our office.

Infants aged 3 months to 3 years with a fever who appear ill or are not feeding well should be seen, and even if appearing well should be seen in our office if their fever lasts more than 3 days or is over 102 F (38.9 C).

Additionally we would like to see children of any age with a fever over 104 F (40 C).  Fever with a new rash, fever lasting more than 7 days and fever in children with other chronic medical problems are all reasons for us to evaluate a child in person.

Are there medications for fever?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) can lower fever by 2-3 degrees. If children appear well and are behaving normally it is not always necessary to treat their fever. When infants and children have a fever they do often appear ill and fussy and treating their fever can relieve pain, achiness and malaise and sometimes improve feeding behavior.

How much medication should I give?
Dosing is based on weight, but manufacturers are reluctant to provide dosing for infants.  We have provided the age and weight based dosing below for the use of our established patients as a reference for use in consultation with us. Please remember we want to see any infant younger than 3 months with a fever, and any infant or child who is so ill their parents are worried in person at our office.

Mistakes in dosing can occur when the concentration and measurement of medication is not properly confirmed. Mistakes in the timing between doses can lead to overdose as well. Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen can be administered together or alternated on an every 3 to 4 hour schedule.  Alternating doses is very effective but  increases the risk of accidentally overdosing by giving the same medication twice in a row.

For Acetaminophen (Tylenol) labeled 160 mg/5 ml and Ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) labeled 100 mg/5 ml

5-11 pounds………. . 0-3 months………… 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) every 6 hours

12-17 pounds……… 4-11 months……….. 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) every 6 hours

18-23 pounds……… 12-23 months……… 3.75 ml (3/4 tsp) every 6 hours

24-35 pounds……… 24-36 months…….. 5 ml (1 tsp) every 6 hours

There is an older version of Acetaminophen with a concentration of 80 mg/0.8 ml.    This is over 3 x as concentrated, so the dose volumes are much lower. This is the one marketed as infant drops, and is no longer being produced.

5-11 pounds……….. 0-3 months………… 0.4 ml every 6 hours

12-17 pounds……… 4-11 months………. 0.8 ml every 6 hours

18-23 pounds…….. 12-23 months……… 1.2 ml every 6 hours

24-35 pounds……… 24-36 months…….. 1.6 ml every 6 hours

Taking care of an ill infant or toddler is a difficult responsibility and we are always here to help!

Why does the thermometer show a low temperature and can it be dangerous – October 6, 2020

They don’t lie, but they can make mistakes. Of all, they are the most inaccurate: the measurement error can be up to one degree even if all the rules are observed, and if the distance from the human skin to the device is violated, then even more.

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2

Then why are they used?

Remote thermometers do their main job of identifying those with a really high temperature.

— The fact is that when a person has a high temperature, fever, the skin vessels dilate to give off heat, so the temperature even in the forehead will already be elevated, — Elena Baranova explains.

Elena Baranova — practicing physician at the Family Medicine Center, work experience — 28 years.

So if the temperature is above 38 °C, as happens with a coronavirus infection, when a person is dangerous, contagious to others, then the thermometer will detect it. But it is desirable, of course, that it be used correctly in this case.

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3

How to measure temperature without contact?

Baranova explains that the temperature should be measured at a distance of 3-8 centimeters. The device must be held for about a second over the area of ​​​​the skin where the vessels are closely located – this is the forehead, earlobe or hand.

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4

When does it show low temperature?

Firstly, this can happen if the remote temperature measuring device is held incorrectly. Secondly, the weather can affect the result.

– In cool weather, the vessels of the skin, including the skin on the forehead, narrow so that the person loses less heat. Accordingly, the temperature of the skin of the forehead will be lower than in the armpit. If remote measurement of body temperature is required, it is more reliable to measure it not in the middle of the forehead, but in the temple area, because a large artery passes there and the readings will be closer to the true body temperature. Of course, the result is even more accurate when measuring the temperature in the armpit, but we cannot do it without contact, ”explains Varvara Veretyuk, the therapist at the Toast Family Medicine Center.

Varvara Veretyuk – therapist at the Toast of Family Medicine Center, work experience – 14 years.

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5

So you can ignore the low temperature?

Not always. If you measure the temperature in a warm room and in the old fashioned way in the armpit and it is still below normal, then this is an alarming sign. Hypothermia is considered to be below 35°C. If this temperature persists for several days, you should consult a doctor, especially if it is accompanied by poor health.

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6

What diseases can a low temperature indicate?

Total not listed. Hypothermia can be with viral and bacterial infections, severe intoxication, strokes and circulatory disorders in certain areas of the brain, with cancer, Parkinson’s disease, anemia, multiple sclerosis and other diseases.

— The body temperature can also be lowered while taking a number of medications: beta-blockers, antipsychotics, sleeping pills, some antidepressants, Varvara Veretyuk lists.

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7

Is there a low temperature during coronavirus?

Fever can also occur with COVID-19, but this is not a typical temperature reaction for this disease.

– Fever is much more characteristic, therefore, a decrease in temperature can rarely be with mild, erased forms, or, conversely, in a terminal state, that is, before death. After an infection, asthenovegetative syndrome often sets in, one of the manifestations of which is just hypothermia, says Andrey Pozdnyakov.

Andrey Pozdnyakov — candidate of medical sciences, infectious disease specialist, chief physician of Invitro-Sibir LLC.

You can read about other symptoms by which coronavirus can be distinguished from influenza or SARS in this article. And here – about why the temperature can still be kept at 37 degrees.

But even if you see one of the symptoms in yourself, in no case do not rush to make a diagnosis yourself, in any situation, consult a doctor.

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  • No. 28, March 15, 2023

  Olga Burchevskaya

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  You should be wary if the temperature goes off scale for 38, lasts a long time (from four to five days) and does not go astray even with pills.

  Photo from the archive of newspaper

  Covid is not as bad as its consequences, doctors say. Headache, weakness, shortness of breath, loss of smell and taste – all these unpleasant symptoms can plague a person for weeks and months. Moreover, many seemingly recovered patients still have a fever – the so-called “temperature tail”, which is very difficult to part with.

  Discharge does not mean cured

  – What we feared most of all happened: my elderly and unvaccinated mother contracted covid. And then – pneumonia, monohospital, antibiotics, droppers, oxygen. Even after being discharged, she was very ill: for two months her temperature rose to 38 degrees, no medicines helped, and her body went haywire: the sores aggravated all at once, – says Tatyana from Vologda.

  – And this is not surprising, – says Alexander Klimenkov, head of the monohospital in Vologda. – To be discharged from the hospital does not mean to recover: the coronavirus can remind of itself for a very long time. There is even such a concept – “long covid”, or “post-covid syndrome”. Most at risk of getting it are the elderly, as well as citizens with weak immunity and chronic diseases: bronchopulmonary, cardiovascular, oncological. The same list includes diabetics, smokers, people who are overweight, as well as those who have had an illness on their legs, those who have had a low level of antibodies and patients who were in hospitals with their nosocomial infections. At the same time, according to medical publications, women suffer from “long covid” one and a half times more often than men.

  Where does the heat come from?

  Alexander Viktorovich says: a person, it would seem, has already recovered from the “crown”, but he does not feel healthy – he has a temperature. There can be many reasons for this phenomenon: for example, a relapse of the disease (it has resumed, the inflammatory process continues), complications, a new infection. Or maybe the patient did not develop enough antibodies, and he became infected with covid again. However, in this case, in addition to fever, he should have other symptoms: cough, runny nose, sore throat, headache.

  According to doctors, they usually talk about the “temperature tail” when, after discharge (recovery), the patient’s body temperature rises to subfebrile values ​​- from 37 to 38 degrees. This phenomenon can last from two or three days to several weeks or even months. At the same time, indicators can jump during the day (for example, rise to 37.8 degrees in the morning, return to normal in the afternoon, and grow again in the evening), or they can change daily (say, on Wednesday – 37 degrees, on Thursday – 38, and on Friday – 36.6). At the same time, the patient, as a rule, has no other complaints, except for a breakdown and weakness.

  The length of the “tail” depends on several factors. Among them are the age of a person, the general state of his health (the presence of chronic diseases), the stability of the thermoregulation system (for example, “walruses”, athletes and healthy lifestyles can boast of it), as well as the form of the transferred covid. The more severe the disease, the longer its consequences can be. For example, persistent subfebrile condition is very common after covid pneumonia.

  Coronavirus is still poorly understood, so doctors and scientists from different countries disagree about the “tail”. Some believe that it is associated with the work of the central nervous system: after covid, it “bugs” and fails, disrupting the thermoregulation of the body. According to another theory, fever is caused by decay products of pathogenic organisms that continue to enter the bloodstream even after the patient has recovered. Another version is based on the fact that covid that enters the body awakens dormant viruses and bacteria (herpes, staphylococcus and others): they begin to “rage” and progress, raising the temperature. In some cases, according to experts, medications for covid can also cause fever – for example, a “side effect” of antibiotics that the patient took. Or maybe the body begins to recover and deliberately “warms up” itself in order to quickly defeat (burn) the residual effects of the disease. All organs and systems enter into the fight against them, and this long process requires considerable energy, lasalute-clinic.ru shares.

  – It is better to record all temperature fluctuations in a special diary, which will allow the doctor to assess the overall picture and figure out if it is a “tail”. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe an examination (for example, a complete blood count, X-ray or CT scan), give recommendations and prescribe the necessary medications. In particular, if the fever in a weakened body is caused by an exacerbation of chronic diseases, then it makes sense to deal with them in the first place, – Alexander Klimenkov shares.

  Should the tail be treated?

  Doctors do not recommend bringing down the temperature no higher than 38.5 degrees – let the body fight the disease itself. This also applies to residual fever – it does not pose a threat to health. It is better to be patient and wait until the systems and organs begin to work normally. In some cases, if the patient is already unbearable (say, he is elderly, weakened, and the “temperature tail” has been dragging on for a long time), you can take a one-time antipyretic, but you should not abuse it. Tablets will only temporarily alleviate the symptoms, but in large quantities, on the contrary, they can harm. They will further reduce immunity, increase the risk of developing vegetovascular dystonia, hurt the kidneys and liver – recovery will be delayed for a long time.

  The best option is to help the body recover on its own. To do this, after an illness, you should take care of yourself: do not overcool, do not overwork, do not abuse gadgets, do not get nervous over trifles. It is advisable to sleep at least eight hours (you can also arrange a quiet hour during the day), eat often and little by little. At the same time, the diet should contain proteins (meat, fish, eggs, cereals, dairy products), vegetables and fruits, drink plenty of water (one and a half to two liters a day).