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Temperature 104 fever. Managing High Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment Strategies

What is considered a fever in children and adults. How to accurately measure body temperature. What are the common causes of fever. How long does a typical fever last. When should you seek medical attention for a fever.

Understanding Fever: Definition and Normal Body Temperature Ranges

Fever is a common physiological response to infection or illness, characterized by an elevation in body temperature above the normal range. But what exactly constitutes a fever?

For children, fever is typically defined as:

  • Rectal temperature over 100.4°F (38°C)
  • Oral temperature over 100°F (37.8°C)
  • Armpit temperature over 99.0°F (37.2°C)
  • Ear temperature over 100.4°F (38°C)
  • Pacifier temperature over 100°F (37.8°C)

For adults and teenagers, an oral temperature above 99.5°F (37.5°C) is generally considered a fever.

It’s important to note that normal body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. The average oral temperature is 97.6°F (36.5°C), but it can range from a low of 95.8°F (35.5°C) in the morning to a high of 99.4°F (37.5°C) in the late afternoon.

Accurate Temperature Measurement Techniques

Obtaining an accurate temperature reading is crucial for proper fever assessment and management. Here are some tips for taking an oral temperature:

  1. Avoid cold or hot drinks for 30 minutes before measurement
  2. Turn on the digital thermometer
  3. Place the tip under one side of the tongue, towards the back
  4. Wait for the thermometer’s signal
  5. Read the displayed temperature

Are there factors that can affect temperature readings? Yes, several external factors can influence body temperature, including:

  • Exercise
  • Heavy clothing
  • Hot baths
  • Hot weather
  • Warm food or drinks

If you suspect these factors might be affecting your temperature, it’s advisable to wait 30 minutes and retake the measurement.

Common Causes of Fever and Its Role in Fighting Infections

Fever is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of underlying conditions. What are the primary causes of fever?

  • Viral infections (e.g., colds, flu)
  • Bacterial infections (e.g., strep throat, bladder infections)

Does fever serve a purpose in the body’s defense mechanism? Indeed, fever plays a crucial role in combating infections by activating the body’s immune system. It’s a natural and often beneficial response that helps fight off pathogens.

Duration and Severity of Fevers

How long does a typical fever last? Most fevers associated with viral illnesses tend to persist for 2 to 3 days. It’s important to understand that the height of the fever doesn’t necessarily correlate with the severity of the illness. Your overall feeling of wellness is a more reliable indicator of your condition.

Can fever cause permanent harm? Generally, fevers do not cause permanent damage until they reach 108°F (42°C). Fortunately, the brain’s thermostat typically prevents untreated fevers from reaching this dangerous level.

Self-Care Strategies for Managing Fever

What are effective ways to care for yourself or your child during a fever?

  • Increase fluid intake, especially cold drinks
  • Dress in light clothing to allow heat to dissipate through the skin
  • Use a light blanket if experiencing chills

For fevers below 102°F (39°C), these measures are often sufficient, and fever-reducing medications may not be necessary.

Medication Guidelines for Fever Management

When should fever-reducing medications be considered? For fevers over 102°F (39°C) accompanied by discomfort, medication may be appropriate. Options include:

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for children over 3 months
  • Ibuprofen (Advil) for children over 6 months, which works 2 hours longer than acetaminophen

It’s crucial to administer the correct dose based on the child’s weight. Aspirin should be avoided in children and teenagers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

Additional Cooling Methods for High Fevers

In cases where fever remains above 104°F (40°C) despite medication, sponge bathing can be an effective cooling method. Here’s how to do it safely:

  1. Administer acetaminophen or ibuprofen first
  2. Sit the child in 2 inches of lukewarm water
  3. Gently sponge the skin
  4. If shivering occurs, stop sponging or add warmer water

When to Seek Medical Attention for Fever

While most fevers are not cause for alarm, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. When should you call a doctor right away?

  • For infants under 3 months old with any fever
  • If the fever exceeds 104°F (40°C)
  • If a seizure occurs
  • If the patient appears or acts very ill

Are there situations that require medical attention within 24 hours? Yes, contact a healthcare provider if:

  • The patient is 3 to 6 months old (unless the fever is due to a recent immunization)
  • A fever persists for over 24 hours in a child under 2 years old with no apparent cause
  • The fever has lasted more than 3 days
  • The fever disappears for over 24 hours and then returns

Understanding Fever in Different Age Groups

Does fever management differ between children and adults? While the basic principles remain similar, there are some key differences to consider:

Fever in Infants and Young Children

Infants and young children require more careful monitoring due to their developing immune systems. Why is extra caution necessary for this age group?

  • They’re more susceptible to rapid temperature changes
  • They may be unable to communicate their symptoms effectively
  • Certain infections can progress more quickly in young children

Parents should pay close attention to other symptoms, hydration levels, and overall behavior in addition to temperature readings.

Fever in Teenagers and Adults

Older children and adults generally have more robust immune systems and can tolerate fevers better. What should teenagers and adults focus on when managing a fever?

  • Staying well-hydrated
  • Getting plenty of rest
  • Monitoring for severe symptoms or prolonged fever

Adults should be aware that certain medications or medical conditions can affect their body’s temperature regulation.

The Impact of Fever on Daily Activities

How does fever affect one’s ability to carry out normal activities? Fever often comes with other symptoms like fatigue, body aches, and reduced appetite, which can significantly impact daily routines. Here are some considerations:

  • Work or school attendance: It’s generally advisable to stay home to rest and avoid spreading infections
  • Physical activity: Strenuous exercise should be avoided until the fever subsides and energy levels return to normal
  • Diet: While appetite may be reduced, it’s important to maintain hydration and consume easily digestible foods

When is it safe to resume normal activities after a fever? Most healthcare professionals recommend waiting until you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications before returning to work, school, or regular activities.

Preventing the Spread of Infections That Cause Fever

Given that many fevers are caused by contagious infections, what steps can be taken to prevent their spread?

  1. Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water
  2. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  3. Avoid close contact with others when you’re ill
  4. Stay up to date on vaccinations to prevent many fever-causing diseases
  5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system

Are there specific precautions for households with young children or elderly members? Yes, these groups may be more vulnerable to infections. Additional measures might include:

  • More frequent cleaning and disinfection of commonly touched surfaces
  • Encouraging family members to avoid sharing personal items like towels or utensils
  • Ensuring all household members are current on recommended vaccinations

The Role of Nutrition and Hydration in Fever Management

Proper nutrition and hydration play crucial roles in supporting the body during a fever. How can dietary choices impact fever recovery?

  • Hydration: Increased fluid intake helps replace fluids lost through sweating and supports overall body function
  • Electrolyte balance: Consuming foods or drinks with electrolytes can help maintain proper mineral balance
  • Nutrient-rich foods: Even with reduced appetite, consuming nutrient-dense foods can support the immune system

What are some recommended foods and drinks during a fever?

  1. Clear broths or soups
  2. Fresh fruits and vegetables
  3. Herbal teas
  4. Water and electrolyte-rich beverages
  5. Easy-to-digest grains like rice or oatmeal

It’s important to listen to your body and not force food if nausea is present. Staying hydrated should be the primary focus.

Understanding Fever-Related Complications

While most fevers are benign, in rare cases, they can lead to complications. What are potential complications associated with high or prolonged fevers?

  • Dehydration: High fevers can lead to increased fluid loss through sweating
  • Febrile seizures: These can occur in some young children with rapidly rising fevers
  • Hallucinations: Very high fevers may cause temporary confusion or hallucinations

How can these complications be prevented or managed?

  1. Maintain proper hydration
  2. Use fever-reducing medications as directed
  3. Monitor temperature and symptoms closely
  4. Seek medical attention if fever is very high or prolonged

It’s crucial to remember that while these complications can be concerning, they are relatively rare and most fevers resolve without incident.

The Future of Fever Management: Emerging Technologies and Treatments

As medical science advances, new approaches to fever management are being developed. What emerging technologies and treatments are on the horizon for fever management?

  • Smart thermometers: Devices that can continuously monitor temperature and transmit data to healthcare providers
  • Targeted anti-inflammatory drugs: Medications that can reduce fever while minimizing side effects
  • Improved diagnostic tools: Technologies that can quickly identify the underlying cause of a fever

How might these advancements change the way we approach fever management in the future? These innovations could lead to more personalized and efficient fever treatment, potentially reducing the need for broad-spectrum medications and allowing for earlier intervention in serious cases.

While these technologies show promise, it’s important to remember that basic fever management principles, such as rest, hydration, and monitoring, will likely remain fundamental to care.

Fever – The Pediatric Clinic

What is a fever?

A fever means the body temperature is above normal. Your child has a fever if:

  • The rectal temperature is over 100.4° F (38° C).
  • The temperature taken by mouth is over 100° F (37.8° C).
  • The armpit temperature is over 99.0° F (37.2° C).
  • The ear temperature is over 100.4° F (38° C).
  • The pacifier temperature is over 100° F (37.8° C).

Fever helps fight infections. Most fevers are not harmful. They may last 2 or 3 days.

How can I take care of my child?

  • Use medicine only if the child needs it. Remember that fever helps your child fight the infection. Use medicine only if the fever is over 102° F (39° C) and your child is uncomfortable.
    • You can give acetaminophen (Tylenol) to children older than 3 months. Fever medicine lowers the fever by 2 to 3° F (1 to 1. 5° C).
    • You may want to give your child ibuprofen instead. Ibuprofen (Advil) works 2 hours longer than acetaminophen. Give the right dose for your child’s weight, every 6 to 8 hours, as needed. You can give ibuprofen to children over 6 months of age.
  • Do not give your child or teen aspirin.
  • Sponge your child if the fever does not go down. Sponge your child if your child’s temperature stays over 104° F (40° C) 30 minutes after your child has taken acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Always give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen first. Sit your child in only 2 inches of lukewarm water. Sponge off the child’s skin. If your child shivers, stop sponging or put in more warm water.
  • Have your child drink a lot of cold fluids.
  • Have your child wear as little clothing as possible. Do not bundle up your child. It may make the fever go higher.

For fevers of 100 to 102° F (37. 8 to 38.9° C), cold fluids and little clothing may be all your child needs. Your child may not need acetaminophen.

Call your child’s doctor right away if:

  • Your child is less than 3 months old.
  • Your child’s fever is over 104° F (40° C).
  • Your child has a seizure.
  • Your child looks or acts very sick.

Call your child’s doctor within 24 hours if:

  • Your child is 3 to 6 months old (unless the fever is due to an immunization shot).
  • Your child has had a fever more than 24 hours and you don’t know what is causing it AND your child is less than 2 years old.
  • Your child has had a fever for more than 3 days.
  • The fever went away for over 24 hours and then came back.
  • You have other concerns or questions.

Fever – Teen Version

What is a fever?

A fever means the body temperature is above normal. You have a fever if your oral temperature is over 99.5°F (37.5°C).

The body’s average temperature when it is measured orally is 97.6°F (36.5°C), but it normally changes during the day. Oral temperature normally can change from a low of 95.8°F (35.5°C) in the morning to a high of 99.4°F (37.5°C) in the late afternoon. Mildly increased temperature (100.4° to 101.3°F, or 38° to 38.5°C) can be caused by exercise, heavy clothing, a hot bath, or hot weather. Warm food or drink can also raise the oral temperature. If you suspect such an effect on your temperature, take it again in a half hour.

How do I take my temperature?

  1. Do not have a cold or hot drink for 30 minutes before you take your temperature.
  2. Turn on the thermometer if you’re using the digital type.
  3. Place the tip of the thermometer under one side of your tongue and toward the back.
  4. Wait until the thermometer signals that you can take it out.
  5. Read the display on a digital thermometer.

What causes a fever?

Fever is a symptom, not a disease. It is the body’s normal response to infections. Fever helps fight infections by turning on the body’s immune system. Most fevers (100° to 104°F, or 37.8° to 40°C) are not harmful. Most are caused by viral illnesses such as colds or flu. Some are caused by bacterial illnesses such as strep throat or bladder infections.

How long will it last?

Most fevers with viral illnesses last for 2 to 3 days. In general, the height of the fever doesn’t relate to the seriousness of the illness. How sick you feel is what counts. Fever does not cause permanent harm until it reaches 108°F (42°C). Fortunately, the brain’s thermostat keeps untreated fevers below this level.

How can I take care of myself?

  • Extra fluids and less clothing

Drink extra fluids. Cold drinks are helpful. Body fluids are lost during fevers because of sweating.

Dress in light clothing because most heat is lost through the skin. During the time you feel cold or are shivering (the chills), wrap yourself in a light blanket.

If the fever is less than 102°F this is the only treatment needed. Fever medicines are not necessary.

  • Medicines

Remember that the fever is helping your body fight the infection. Take medicine only if your fever is over 102°F (39°C) and you are also uncomfortable. You should take either acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Acetaminophen: Take any one of the acetaminophen products: Tylenol, Anacin-3, Panadol, or Tempra. The dosage is 2 tablets (650 mg) every 4 to 6 hours. 2 hours after they are taken, these drugs will reduce the fever 2° to 3°F (1° to 1.5° C). Medicines do not bring the temperature down to normal unless the temperature was not very high before the medicine was taken. You will need to take repeated dosages of the drugs because the fever will go up and down until the illness runs its course.

Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is available in 200-mg tablets without a prescription as Advil, Motrin, etc. The dosage is 2 tablets (400 mg) of ibuprofen every 6 to 8 hours. When you use ibuprofen, stop taking acetaminophen.

Avoid aspirin: Doctors recommend that anyone under age 21 years) not take aspirin if they have any symptoms of a cold or viral infection, such as a fever, cough, or sore throat. Aspirin taken during a viral infection, such as chickenpox or flu, has been linked to a severe illness called Reye’s syndrome.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call immediately if:

  • Your fever is over 104°F (40°C).
  • You have fever along with a severe headache, confusion, a stiff neck, trouble breathing, or you can’t drink liquids.

Call within 24 hours if:

  • Your fever went away for more than 24 hours and then returned.
  • You have a fever for more than 3 days.
  • You have other concerns or questions.

Home Treatment and When to See a Doctor



Nationwide Children’s Hospital




Fever is an increase in the body’s temperature above normal. Body temperature is usually lowest in the morning and goes up through the day. Each person’s body temperature can be different. It is hard to give an exact temperature for a fever, but most health care providers agree that a fever is a temperature of 100.4˚ Fahrenheit (F) or 38˚ Celsius (C) or higher.

Fevers can show that the body is fighting an infection from a virus or bacteria. It can also happen after getting a vaccine, from getting overheated, or from a very bad sunburn. Many times, the fever does not need to be treated and will go away on its own.

How to Take a Temperature

The type of thermometer used may make a difference.

  • To take a temperature, use a digital thermometer. Never use a mercury thermometer.
  • Rectal (in baby’s bottom) thermometers are the most accurate.
  • Forehead (temporal artery) thermometers are the next best choice if used the right way.
  • Oral (mouth) and ear (tympanic) thermometers can be used if done properly. For oral temperatures, wait 30 minutes after drinking something hot or cold. For ear, wait 15 minutes after coming in from the cold.
  • Lastly, an axillary (armpit) temperature can be used as a quick check but it is not very accurate.

The best ways to check your child’s temperature depends on their age.

  • Under 3 months:  rectal or forehead thermometers
  • 4 months or older:  rectal, forehead, or axillary thermometers
  • Older than 6 months:  rectal, forehead, ear, or axillary thermometers
  • 4 years old or older:  oral (mouth), forehead, ear, or axillary thermometers

Be sure to tell your child’s health care provider which method you used.

Home Treatment

A fever may not need to be treated unless your child is uncomfortable. Even higher temperatures are not usually dangerous unless they have a long-term illness.

  • Dress your child in light clothing. Over dressing them can trap the body’s heat and make the temperature go higher.
    • Babies under age 1:  Dress them in a sleep sack or wearable blanket. Do not put loose blankets over them.
    • Children over age 1:  While sleeping, cover them with a sheet or light blanket.
  • Give extra fluids.
    • Babies under age 1:  Continue to give breast milk and formula. They should not be given water. If they are older than 6 months, you can give Pedialyte®.
    • Children over age 1:  Offer extra liquids to drink, like water, diluted 100% juice, popsicles, or Pedialyte.
  • Your child may not want to eat much. Offer soft foods often and in small amounts but do not force them to eat.
  • Give sponge baths or let your child soak in a tub. Water should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold. Use a wash cloth to sponge the water over your child’s body (Picture 1).
    • Do NOT add alcohol to the water. It can be dangerous.
    • Recheck your child’s temperature 15 minutes after the bath. If the temperature is 103˚F (39.4˚C) or is going higher, repeat the sponge bath.
  • Over-the-counter medicines can help lower a fever. Read the label on the bottle to know the right dose for your child.
    • Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) may be used in all children over 2 months.
    • Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) may be used in children over 6 months.
    • Do NOT give aspirin to children (Picture 2). Aspirin has been linked to a disease called Reye’s syndrome, which can be fatal. 

When to Call the Health Care Provider

Call your child’s health care provider right away if your child:

  • Is younger than 3 months of age and has a temperature of 100. 4˚F (38˚C) or higher.
  • Is older than 3 months and has a temperature:
    • Of 104 ˚F (40 ˚C) or above.
    • Above 102˚F (38.9˚C) for more than 2 days or keeps coming back.
    • That has been treated to bring it down, but it has not worked.
  • At any age, has a fever and:
    • Looks very ill, is very fussy, or very drowsy.
    • Is not eating or drinking and shows signs of dehydration – dry or sticky mouth, sunken eyes, dark urine, dry diapers, or not urinating.
    • Has a stiff neck, bad headache, very sore throat, painful stomach ache, vomiting, or diarrhea.
    • Has an unusual rash
    • Has been in a very hot place, such as an overheated car.
    • Has immune system problems that make them more likely to get sick, such as sickle cell disease or cancer, or takes a medicine that weakens the immune system.

Call 911 or go to the emergency department if your child has trouble breathing, has a seizure, or is hard to wake up.

Fever (PDF), Arabic (PDF), Nepali (PDF), Somali (PDF), Spanish (PDF)

HH-I-105 10/75 Revised 2/22 Copyright 1975, Nationwide Children’s Hospital


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Reducing Temperature Naturally with Plants

Fever, a common and frequent disease that everyone faces, is a symptom that manifests itself in an abnormally high body temperature in the absence of any intense physical effort. Plants can help in its treatment.

Indeed, the normal average human body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C).
Depending on the person, this average may be closer to 97.7°F (36.5°C) or 99.5°F (37.5°C).

The term “fever” is used whenever the resting body temperature rises to 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.

In both children and adults, fever is usually the body’s immediate response to infection.

As long as the thermometer does not show a body temperature above 105.8°F (41°C), the fever itself is not dangerous. Thus, in most cases, no special treatment is required.

However, if the temperature exceeds 104°F (40°C), this increase in body temperature is considered a “serious and immediate health risk”, especially for young children. In this case, it is imperative to meet with a consultant doctor.

But is it possible to fight fever with plants? Why? When and how? Let’s look around…

  • Important note about coronavirus – if you’re experiencing any symptoms (fever, sore throat, cough, muscle aches, fatigue), use the phone and call your doctor. Do not go to the doctor’s office unless asked to do so. The remedies presented here may relieve symptoms, but they are not a substitute for professional medical attention and follow-up.

Fever, basic facts about this symptom

Definition of fever

Derived from the Latin root word “ febris “, fever is defined as an abnormal increase in body temperature without the patient exerting any physical effort. Temperature is measured with a thermometer when the temperature is over 100.4 °F (38 °C).

Thus, it is the physiological reaction of the body when it tries to resist possible changes or disorders that occur in the body.

Fever and medicine, short story

In 1868, the German physician Karl Wunderlich first introduced fever as a symptom and not as a disease as such. He established that the normal human body temperature is between 98.6°F (37°C) and 99.5°F (37.5°C).

Approximately 150 years later, modern medicine expanded part of his teaching, as it was observed and explained that body temperature is unique to each person. It would be a mistake to arbitrarily assume that it is within 98.6-99.5°F (37-37.5°C) for all.

2016 showed progress in resolving this breakthrough thanks to scientists working at the Boston Children’s Hospital in Massachusetts (USA). Using Apple’s “Feverprints” app, they conducted a study based on information collected by patients with fever.

Causes and forms of fever

An abnormal increase in body temperature is usually a reaction to an infection.

Indeed, after an infection, such as a urinary tract infection or mild otitis media, the body reacts and raises core body temperature. This has the effect of increasing the exposure and effectiveness of leukocytes.

Fever is often associated with pain, muscle aches and shaking or trembling, but there are a number of other symptoms, namely:

– broncho-pulmonary diseases

– gastroenteritis sinusitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis).

In fact, if these symptoms and disorders are accompanied by neck stiffness, hypotension, confusion or delirium, difficulty breathing, etc. , it is very important to consult a doctor, especially if the fever continues for at least 72 hours.

In other cases, fever is the first observable sign of a potentially serious infectious disease.

The following may be noted as relevant:

– kidney infection or pyelonephritis

– encephalitis

– meningitis

– foreign bodies (grafts, allergens)

– changes in tissues or organs of the body (for example, in the event of a heart attack)

– sepsis

– reaction to certain medications

– the presence of cancer cells

– certain diseases (including lupus)

– and deep abscesses.

Although many cases of fever remain unresolved to this day, some systemic, neoplastic or hematological diseases may be additional possible triggers.

How to Reduce Fever Naturally

Like any other symptom or disease, every confirmed case of fever should not be ignored.

Although this rarely requires urgent treatment (depending on the patient’s age and medical history), it is important to take steps to reduce the temperature.

The first steps are to ask the patient to take off their clothes, lower the temperature in the patient’s room, remove the cover, and drink more water from the patient.

There are a number of medicines specifically designed to help reduce fever.

What about natural herbal solutions?

Here are a few key things to know:

– often used as an herbal tea for children, linden tree or linden – an antipyretic medicinal plant.

To make a cup of linden or linden herbal tea, measure out one teaspoon of dried flowers for about 7 fl. $12.99 oz (200 ml) water.

– As a tablet or gelatin capsule, white willow is a very effective antipyretic. It is extremely important to consult a specialist about the correct dosage to be used in case of fever.

  • Elderflower is recommended to be taken as a softgel or as an herbal tea to help detoxify when you have a fever. To prepare a course, an adequate dosage must be determined by an expert on an individual basis.
  • Finally, decoctions made from calendula are another of the traditional options that are often recommended to reduce fever.

Good to know about fever

If you have a fever caused by an infectious disease (flu), remember:

– Avoid heavy meals

– Rest and stay out of the cold to minimize effort

– Stay hydrated by drinking frequent fluids (broth, sweetened drinks, water or herbal tea).

Some diseases (Still’s disease, hyperthyroidism, Kawaschi’s disease, lymphoma, Crohn’s disease, leukemia, sarcoidosis) can cause episodes of occasional fever. If this happens repeatedly, it is recommended that you get checked out quickly by your local doctor.

Please note that the rapid increase in body temperature that occurs after surgery requires close monitoring. For adequate monitoring, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Quick answer: 104 7 Is it a high temperature for a dog?

Pyrexia in dogs. Fever, medically called hyperthermia, can be defined as an increase in body temperature in dogs that is above normal. With a normal range of 99.5 to 102.5 Fahrenheit, a body temperature of at least 103.5°F (39.7 °C) can be considered a fever.

A dog is said to have a fever when its temperature reaches 103 degrees or more. If so, it’s time to head to the vet. Temperatures of 106 degrees and above can damage your pet’s internal organs and lead to death, so never wait until it gets to this point.

If your dog has a temperature above 103 F, you should call your veterinarian. A fever above 106 F is an emergency that must be treated immediately. If your dog’s temperature is above 105 F, you can lower his body temperature by soaking his coat with cool water, especially around the ears and legs.

A normal temperature of 100° to 104° F (37.8° to 40° C) is beneficial for sick children. MYTH. Fever above 104°F (40°C) is dangerous. They can cause brain damage.

Severe fever ranges from 103 to 104 F. Dangerous temperatures are high fevers that range from 104 to 107 F or higher (very high fever is also called hyperpyrexia).

When describing fever in dogs, a temperature is usually defined as greater than 103.5–104 °F (39.7–40 °C), without indicating the duration of the fever.

Tylenol® is an opioid-free pain reliever sometimes given to dogs for pain and fever.

Temperatures below 103 can usually be controlled at home within 24 hours. But if the temperature rises or lasts longer than a day, you should contact your veterinarian. Temperatures of 106 degrees and above can cause damage to the dog’s internal organs and lead to death.

Signs of lethargy include lack of appetite, shortness of breath, and abrupt change in behavior. One of the simple causes of lethargy in dogs is warm weather. This causes the so-called “expiring lethargy”. When the temperature cools down or the dog cools down, his lethargy should subside.

Call your pediatrician if your child’s rectal temperature falls below 97.