High Temperature Causes and Treatments

What Is a Fever?

A fever is a body temperature that’s higher than is considered normal. It’s also called a high temperature, hyperthermia, or pyrexia, and it’s usually a sign that your body is working to keep you healthy from an infection. Normal body temperatures are different for everyone, but they lie within the range of 97 to 99. A temperature of 100.4 or higher is considered a fever.

A part of your brain called the hypothalamus controls your body temperature. In response to an infection, illness, or some other cause, the hypothalamus may reset the body to a higher temperature. So when a fever comes on, it’s a sign that something is going on in your body.

Fevers themselves generally aren’t dangerous, but you should check in with your doctor if:

• An adult’s temperature is 103 or higher
• A very young infant (under 3 months) has a rectal temperature 100.4 or higher (call your doctor or go to an emergency room immediately)
• A 3-6-month-old has a higher than normal rectal temperature and is also irritable or sleepy (call your doctor right away)
• A 3-6-month-old has a 102 or higher rectal temperature
• A 6-24-month-old has a fever higher than 102 for more than a day or with other symptoms such as a cough or diarrhea
• A child older than 2 has a fever that comes with rash, real discomfort, irritability, listlessness, headache, stiff neck, or repeated diarrhea or vomiting
• An infant or child has a seizure
• Any temperature over 104 in a child, which could cause a seizure
• Any fever that starts after someone has been in hot temperatures, which could be a sign of heat stroke
• The fever doesn’t go down after taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen in the appropriate doses
• You’ve been in contact with someone who has COVID-19

Fever Symptoms

Fevers are signs of some sort of illness or infection. When you have, you may also notice these symptoms:

Fever Causes

A fever can be a sign of several health conditions, which may or may not need medical treatment.

The most common causes of fever are infections such as colds and stomach bugs (gastroenteritis). Other causes include:

Fever Diagnosis

Although a fever is easy to measure with a thermometer, finding its cause can be hard. Besides a physical exam, your doctor will ask about symptoms and conditions, medications, and if you’ve recently traveled to areas with infections or have other infection risks. A malaria infection, for example, may cause a fever that typically comes back. Some areas of the U.S. are hot spots for infections such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Your doctor may ask if you have been around someone with COVID-19 or have any other symptoms of COVID-19.

Sometimes, you may have a “fever of unknown origin.” In such cases, the cause could be an unusual or not obvious condition such as a chronic infection, a connective tissue disorder, cancer, or another problem.

Fever Treatments

Fever is usually associated with physical discomfort, and most people feel better when a fever is treated. But depending on your age, physical condition, and the underlying cause of your fever, you may or may not require medical treatment for the fever alone. Many experts believe that fever is a natural bodily defense against infection. There are also many non-infectious causes of fever.

Treatments vary depending on the cause of the fever. For example, antibiotics would be used for a bacterial infection such as strep throat.

The most common treatments for fever include over-the-counter drugs such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Children and teens should not take aspirin because it’s linked to a condition called Reye’s syndrome.

Ways to lower a fever at home include:

• Drinking a lot of clear liquids such as water, broth, and juices or a rehydration drink
• Taking a lukewarm bath
• Resting
• Keeping yourself cool with lightweight clothing and bed coverings

RSV: What it is and how to prevent it

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a very common virus that can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

While not a threat to most adults, RSV can lead to a serious lung infection called bronchiolitis in some children.

“When adults get RSV, they just get kind of a cold. They don’t typically get tested for it, and they usually don’t even go to the doctor,” said Haroon Ali, MD. As a pediatric hospitalist at OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois, Dr. Ali has treated many children with severe RSV infections.

Why children are different

Children respond differently to illnesses like RSV.

“They have a younger immune system that’s very reactive. They also have smaller airways all the way to the bottom of their lungs. When they get filled with mucus, they can get in a lot more trouble than adults do,” Dr. Ali said.

Any child younger than grade-school age could be at risk of complications from RSV, but in general, the highest risk is for those who are youngest.

Children under a year old are generally considered high-risk for complications from RSV, as are those with certain medical conditions including:

• Prematurity (born before 37 weeks gestation)
• Lung and heart problems
• A compromised immune system because of illness or medical treatment

Treating RSV

Because RSV is caused by a virus, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. Treatment instead is focused on alleviating symptoms and keeping children as comfortable as possible while their immune system fights off the virus.

Children who become infected with RSV might have cold-like symptoms. Many times, these symptoms will resolve without medical treatment, but some cases can escalate to a serious illness.

If your child has only mild symptoms, you can try to keep them comfortable at home. If your child has a fever, check with your pediatrician or family doctor about what medications you can safely use.

You can also use nasal suction (a saline spray or suction tool) to keep their nose and airways clear. This is especially important when they are sleeping and eating.

“But if you start to worry about your child breathing on their own, or if they seem like they are spending all their energy on breathing, that would be a worrisome symptom and reason to seek medical attention,” Dr. Ali said.

Chest retractions are a hallmark sign of difficulty breathing. If you can see the lines between your child’s ribs, a pronounced line between their ribs and stomach or a notch between their clavicles (collarbones), they should be seen by a medical provider as soon as possible.

“The most significant thing you can look out for in kids who are under 6 months old would be pauses in breathing. Fifteen to 20 seconds could be very worrisome, and you should seek medical attention immediately,” Dr. Ali said.

You should also be on the lookout for signs of dehydration: fewer than four wet diapers in a day or a significant decrease in how much your child is eating, drinking or urinating.

Preventing RSV

To prevent RSV:

• Keep hands clean, especially when you are caring for a very young infant.
• Keep young children away from others (adults or children) who show signs of illness. For children under 2 months old, even mild illnesses like colds or sniffles could be dangerous.
• Don’t send your child to daycare if they are sick. Children can safely go to daycare once their symptoms are improving and they do not have a fever.

Ear infections: Causes, symptoms and treatment

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons kids go to the doctor. In fact, most children have had at least one by the time they turn one.

“An ear infection is a collection of fluid – and infection of that fluid – behind the eardrum, that causes pressure,” said Kristine Ray, MD, an OSF HealthCare pediatrician. “The eardrum is like a piece of tissue paper. That fluid and pressure causes the eardrum to bulge out into the canal of the ear, which can cause pain.”

Symptoms of an ear infection

Ear pain is the tell-tale sign of many ear infections.

Other symptoms include:

• Ear tugging or general fussiness (in babies)
• Fever
• Runny nose or congestion
• Cough

Treatment for ear infections

Ear infections often resolve on their own.

And while ear infections caused by bacteria can be treated with antibiotics, ear infections can also be caused by a virus.

For these reasons, antibiotics are not always prescribed right away for an inner ear infection.

“It depends on the severity and age of the patient,” Dr. Ray said.

• Children under 6 months old usually receive antibiotics for an ear infection.
• Children 6 months to 2 years old may not receive antibiotics if their infection is mild, but it’s still likely your provider will recommend antibiotics.
• Once children are over the age of 2, your provider is more likely to recommend waiting a few days to see if symptoms improve without treatment before prescribing antibiotics – unless symptoms are severe.

“Once they get to 2 years old and up, we are trying to be better stewards with our antibiotics. We usually give 48 to 72 hours to see how symptoms evolve. If they are getting better, we usually don’t need antibiotics,” Dr. Ray said.

“If, in the course of 48 to 72 hours, they are getting worse, we are likely to prescribe antibiotics.”

Outside of antibiotics, treatment for ear infections focuses on controlling pain and discomfort:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Hot or cold compress

Recurring ear infections

If ear infections come back over and over again, your provider may refer you to see an ear, nose and throat specialist for a more effective treatment for preventing infections.

The most common treatment is pressure equalization tubes, also called ear tubes or ventilation tubes. These tiny tubes are surgically inserted into the eardrum and create a pathway for fluid to drain, so it can’t build up in the ear canal.

Children may benefit from ear tubes if they have:

• Three or more ear infections in a six-month period
• Four or more ear infections in a 12-month period

Ear infection prevention

While ear infections are quite common, certain behaviors can put children at higher or lower risk for developing an ear infection.

To limit your child’s risk of ear infections:

• Avoid tobacco smoke. Exposure to tobacco smoke is a significant risk factor for ear infections and recurrent ear infections.
• Breastfeed, if possible. Breastfeeding can be protective and preventive for those ear infections.

If your child has symptoms of an ear infection, see your primary care provider (PCP) or visit an urgent care facility for treatment. If your child has recurring infections, talk with your PCP or pediatrician for more information about what’s causing your child’s infections and how to prevent them.

High temperature (fever) in adults

What is a high temperature?

Normal body temperature is different for everyone and changes during the day.

A high temperature is usually considered to be 38C or above. This is sometimes called a fever.

Many things can cause a high temperature, but it’s usually caused by your body fighting an infection.

Check if you have a high temperature

You may have a high temperature if:

• your chest or back feel hotter than usual
• you have other symptoms, such as shivering (chills), sweating or warm, red skin
• a thermometer says your temperature is 38C or above

Do I need to take my temperature?

You do not need to take your temperature using a thermometer, but you can if you have one.

Make sure you use it correctly to help get an accurate result. See how to take a temperature.

Important

If you feel hot or shivery, you may have a high temperature even if a thermometer says your temperature is below 38C.

Treating a high temperature

It can help to:

• get lots of rest
• drink plenty of fluids (water is best) to avoid dehydration – drink enough so your pee is light yellow and clear
• take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you feel uncomfortable

Advice for children

This page is for adults. For advice about children, see fever in children.

Page last reviewed: 06 April 2020
Next review due: 06 April 2023

What is a fever: when should you worry about a high temperature?

Fevers can be distressing when you’re worried about your child’s health.

When was the last time you had a fever? You probably remember feeling pretty yucky: maybe too hot or cold, or having chills, shivers or sweats. If you’ve looked after a baby or child who has a fever, you’ll know that while fevers can be common in young people, they can be distressing when you can’t explain to your little one what’s going on and you’re worried about their health.

Fevers are a normal bodily function that happens when the body encounters infection, but there are times when a fever requires medical attention. Read on to learn more about what a fever is and when to get help for a fever when you, or someone you are caring for, are sick.

What is a fever?

Fevers happen when your body temperature rises above normal, usually in response to an infection in the body. This is why people sometimes call a fever a ‘temperature.’

Fevers aren’t actually caused by the infection or illness you have, but are a part of your body’s immune system response, and are a sign that your body is working to make itself better. You might have a fever when you have an illness caused by a virus, like influenza, or a bacterial infection.  

What is a normal or healthy body temperature?

Your body’s temperature will usually be about 36-37°C. A ‘normal’ body temperature can change depending on your age, what you’ve been doing and the time of day; your body temperature might be a little higher if you’ve been exercising, and your body temperature will usually be at its lowest just before dawn and highest in the afternoon.

If you want to find out your normal body temperature, measure your temperature using a thermometer for a few days in a row when you’re feeling well. This will give you a good indication of what temperature your body normally sits at. When you have a fever, your body temperature will be higher than normal. Usually, a temperature over 38°C is a sign of fever.

How to measure body temperature

Body temperature is measured using a tool called a thermometer. These days, thermometers are digital devices, which show the temperature on a screen. In the past, thermometers used a substance called mercury to measure temperature, but these thermometers are no longer used in hospitals or sold to the public.

Follow the instructions on your thermometer to measure body temperature. There are different places on the body where temperature can be measured, including the armpit, ear, under the tongue, or rectum. Your thermometer might be designed to measure temperature in one or more of these spots.

Side effects of fevers

Fevers are rarely harmful, but can make you feel uncomfortable. Ironically, when your temperature is on the rise you might get chills or shivers, while your temperature falling can make you sweaty.

High fevers can cause febrile convulsions (seizures) in children. This happens in about 3% of children aged 6 months to 5 years. Almost all children who get febrile convulsions will outgrow them once they are 4-5 years old. Febrile convulsions don’t cause any long-term health problems, but you should talk to your doctor if your child has one.

When to go to the doctor or ED for a fever?

The seriousness of a fever depends on the age and health of the person who is sick.

If a baby under 3 months has a fever, they need to see a doctor immediately.

In children over 3 months and in adults, a fever can be treated at home. Seek medical attention if the person has any of these other symptoms as well as fever:

• trouble breathing
• drowsiness
• refusing to drink and/or not urinating as often
• stiff neck
• sensitivity to light
• ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea
• looking sicker than before – more pale, lethargic or weak
• any other symptoms that are causing you worry.

You should also see a doctor if you or someone you are caring for:

• still have a fever after three days
• are shivering or shaking uncontrollably
• are hot but not sweating
• are getting sicker instead of feeling better
• have recently travelled overseas
• Seek urgent medical attention if a person of any age has a fever with a headache and stiff neck, or has rash that doesn’t blanche (fade) when pressed. You should call an ambulance if you or someone you are caring for has unexpected or unusual symptoms like hallucinations,  muscle spasms or feels confused or drowsy.

If you’re not sure whether a fever is serious and you should see a doctor, you can speak to a registered nurse by calling 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you ever think that the situation is an emergency or that someone’s life is in danger, call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance immediately.

How to treat a fever

Most often, fevers can be treated at home. You don’t need medication to treat a fever unless the person who is sick is feeling uncomfortable.

Treat fever by:

• giving paracetamol or ibuprofen if the person is uncomfortable, following the instructions on the packaging for how much and how often the medication should be given (ibuprofen can only be given to children over 3 months of age)
• dress in light clothing
• avoid using heavy blankets or quilts which might make you too hot and increase your temperature
• drink clear fluids like water and offer breastfed infants more feeds than normal
• rest

Cold baths, sponges and fans might seem like a good idea when you have a temperature, but they can actually make you feel more uncomfortable and should be avoided.

More information

Fever – Health Direct

Fever and high temperatures in children – Health Direct

Fever – Raising Children

Fever (High Temperature) | Patient

Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE

What is classified as a fever?

Your body temperature fluctuates slightly throughout the day. A high temperature is also known as a fever. Generally, a fever is a rise of body temperature above the normal daily variation. Normal temperature varies depending on the person, the body site where temperature is measured, and the time of day.

The actual temperature causing a fever varies between different people and depends on what their usual temperature is. It is usually agreed that a person with a temperature of 38°C or higher has a fever. However, a temperature over 37.5°C can often be considered to be a fever in many children. Fevers can occur in children and adults and can be very common. Fevers are often accompanied by sweating.

What is a normal temperature?

Your normal body temperature changes throughout the day. These changes can be caused by exercise, eating, sleeping and even the time of day. Your temperature is usually highest in the early evening and lowest in the early hours of the morning.

Your average body temperature, taken with a thermometer in your mouth, is 37°C, but anywhere between 36.5°C and 37.2°C is often considered normal. Armpit temperatures are 0.2°C to 0.3°C lower than this.

How do I take a temperature?

There are different ways of taking your temperature. The quickest and easiest way of taking a temperature is with a thermometer. This can be by an electronic or chemical dot thermometer. A thermometer can be placed either under your armpit or in your ear. The forehead thermometers are no longer recommended.

As a parent it can be extremely worrying if your child has a high temperature (fever). However, having a fever is very common and often clears up by itself without treatment.

How do you know if you have a fever without a thermometer?

Using a thermometer is the best way to tell if you have a fever. However, if you don’t have one, the following will give you a rough idea:

• Feel your forehead with the back of your hand. This is much more sensitive to temperature than the palm.
• Look in the mirror. If you have a fever, your cheeks may be flushed.
• Check for general symptoms of infection, such as aches and pains, tiredness or muscle weakness.
• Check your wee – if it’s darker than usual you may be getting dehydrated from excess sweating.
• Ask anyone around if they feel hot – obvious, really but if they do, it could just mean you need to turn down the heating.

How is a fever treated?

Adults

Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE

A high temperature (fever) is usually associated with physical discomfort and most people feel better when a fever is treated. However, depending on your age, physical condition and the underlying cause of your fever, you may or may not require medical treatment for the fever alone. Many experts believe that fever is a natural bodily defense against infection.

Your doctor will examine you and try to determine the underlying cause for your fever. If it is due to infection with a germ (a bacterial infection) – for example, a urine infection – you may be given antibiotics. You may need to have some tests, especially if a cause other than an infection is likely. Testing may include:

Paracetamol or ibuprofen may help to reduce the fever. 

Children

Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE

In children, paracetamol and ibuprofen are usually only recommended if the child is distressed with the fever. Remember that just because a fever responds to medicine, this does not mean that you should stop looking out for signs of serious illness (such as a non-blanching rash).

Note: in children, giving paracetamol or ibuprofen does not reduce the risk of a seizure caused by a fever occurring. See the separate leaflet called Febrile Seizure (Febrile Convulsion).

Warm (tepid) sponging is no longer recommended for children with a fever. Drinking plenty of fluids is important when you (or your child) have a fever. Keeping fluid levels up is important to reduce the risk of lack of fluid in the body (dehydration).

When should you see a doctor?

You should contact a doctor if you or your child have a high temperature (fever) and:

• Your child has a fit.
• You or your child develop a rash that does not disappear when you press a glass on it (a non-blanching rash).
• You or your child are becoming more unwell.
• The fever lasts longer than five days.

You should contact a doctor if you have a fever and have worsening symptoms – for example, a rash, stiff neck, shortness of breath or chest pains.

What causes fever?

High temperature (fever) is caused by the release of certain chemicals by your immune system, usually as a result of infection or inflammation. Fever is an important sign that a person is unwell and a cause should usually be found.

Most fevers are caused by infections or other illnesses. Viral infections are very common causes of a fever. The high body temperature makes it more difficult for the germs (bacteria or viruses) which cause infections to survive.

Fever caused by infections

Common conditions that can cause fevers include:

If you have been abroad and develop a fever, it is important to see a doctor. Infections sometimes caught abroad can also cause a fever. See the separate leaflets called Malaria, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Lyme Disease.

Your child’s temperature can also be raised when their teeth start to develop (their teething period), following some vaccinations, or if they overheat because of too much bedding or clothing. See the separate leaflets called Teething, Immunisation and Sudden Infant Death (Cot Death).

Fever caused by other conditions

Less commonly, fever can be caused by conditions other than infections. For example, blood clots in the leg or lung can sometimes lead to a fever developing. See the separate leaflets called Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism.

There are some conditions which cause swelling (inflammation) in the body. If you have one of these conditions, a common symptom you may experience is fever. See the separate leaflets called Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

There are also some types of cancer which can lead to a fever developing. See the separate leaflet called Cancer.

How common is a fever?

A high temperature (fever) can be really common. They are more common in children. Around 3 out of 10 young children have a fever every year and a fever is one of the most common reasons for a child to be seen by their GP. 

What temperature is a fever? How to break it

Take a look at the sick leave guidelines for most schools and workplaces, and you’re bound to find a reference to fevers. The general consensus for higher-than-normal body temperatures is stay home. But why?

After all, a fever is not a disease. It’s an indicator. In most cases, a high temperature is the body’s way to combat a virus or bacterial infection or respond to trauma or other medical conditions. Everyone’s body runs at a slightly different normal temperature, but the average is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, and anything above 100.9 F (or 100.4 F for children) constitutes a fever.

While a fever might be uncomfortable (and even slightly worrisome), it’s not inherently bad. Instead, it’s a natural bodily response, a sign that the immune system is gearing up for a battle. Elevated temperatures help immune cells move quicker, so it’s a good idea to let that fever ride in most cases. 

Still, questions remain. And with the growing prevalence of fevers as a coronavirus (COVID-19) symptom, answers are more important than ever. What’s the most accurate way to measure body temperature? When is a fever too high? How do you treat one? Those answers (and more) are just a short scroll away.

How to take your temperature

The onset of a fever’s common symptoms typically prompts parents, doctors, and anyone seeking a sick day to unsheathe their thermometers. These symptoms go beyond simply feeling hot. Fever is often accompanied by sweating, chills, aches and pains, weakness, a loss of appetite, or diarrhea. And there are multiple measurement methods. Here are a few:

• Oral temperature: Place a digital thermometer tip under the tongue and wait for a beep to indicate that the temperature reading is complete. This is the most common at-home method but produces measurements that are usually one degree lower than ear or rectal temperatures.
• Ear (tympanic) temperature: Ear thermometers aren’t quite as common in households, but they can produce more accurate temperature measurements. These devices use infrared rays to gauge temperatures within the ear canal. Place the end in the canal and wait for the beep. 
• Rectal temperature: It’s easy to shy away from this method, but it’s actually the most accurate (especially for young children). It involves inserting a Vaseline-covered digital thermometer about half an inch into the anus until the temperature registers. There are specific rectal thermometers, but most often, a standard digital one will do just fine.
• Forehead (temporal) temperature: Forehead thermometers measure the temperature of the temporal artery. However, these are typically more expensive and not quite as accurate. They often register half a degree lower than ear and rectal temperatures.
• Armpit (axillary) temperature: This might be the least invasive method, but it’s also the least accurate. It can be up to two degrees lower than a tympanic or rectal temperature.

What is a normal body temperature?

A normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Celsius. At least, that’s the traditional answer. However, studies over the past century have discovered that modern humans actually run closer to 97.5 F. Of course, this is an average, and any given person’s normal temperature can range from 97 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit. 

There are a few important considerations regarding body temperatures, though. The first is that a person’s temperature changes throughout the day and can be moderately influenced by several factors, including:

• Strenuous exercise
• Stress
• Smoking
• Meals
• Time of day (body temperature is lowest early in the morning)

Certain pain relievers can lower body temperature as well, especially Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), and Tylenol (acetaminophen).

And remember that body temperatures can vary based on how and where they’re taken. Rectal and ear temperatures are higher (and more accurate) than oral and armpit temperatures. 

RELATED: About Advil | About Aleve | About Tylenol

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Fever temperature charts

It’s easy to think that a fever is simply anything more than 99°, but body temperature ranges are more nuanced than that. There are four levels: hypothermia, normal, fever/hyperthermia, and hyperpyrexia. 

• Hypothermia occurs when body heat dissipates faster than the body can produce it, causing dangerous drops in temperature. 
• The normal range (97 to 99 F) depends on the person and their activities. 
• Hyperthermia is a low-grade fever, one that’s typical of mild infectious diseases and adverse drug reactions. 
• Hyperpyrexia manifests as a much higher temperature and often results from brain hemorrhaging, sepsis, or serious infection. 

Our body temperatures gradually rise as we age, so fevers have different parameters for adults and children. 

Note: These charts reflect rectal temperatures, which are typically one degree (Fahrenheit) higher than oral or armpit temperatures.

A lower fever can be beneficial, a necessary infection-fighting function. But once it crosses a certain threshold, there can be dire consequences. Hyperpyrexia often indicates a severe underlying issue and requires emergency medical care. If it’s not controlled, an extremely high temperature can potentially cause permanent brain damage and even death.

Severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting, headache, and confusion require medical attention. Fevers that last longer than three days should also be evaluated by a medical professional. 

Once a child’s temperature hits 102 F and doesn’t subside within a day, it’s time to call a doctor. If that fever is accompanied by irregular breathing, severe headache, skin rash, vomiting, severe diarrhea, stiff neck, difficulty urinating, or febrile seizures, seek emergency medicine. That threshold is 100.4 F for babies younger than 3 months old and 102 F for babies 6 to 12 months old. 

Fever is also one of the most common COVID-19 symptoms. Anyone with a fever and a dry cough or difficulty breathing should get tested for coronavirus as soon as possible.

How to break a fever

In most cases, a fever will come and go without doing any harm. Because they help the body fight off infections, it’s often good to let low-grade fevers (below 102 F) run their course. In most cases, a fever will only last one to three days. But if it begins to rise or cause discomfort, it might be time to take action. 

Fevers can induce sweating, so staying hydrated is critical. Drinking cold water won’t always lower a high temperature, but it can help mitigate symptoms and discomfort. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are often effective in reducing fevers.

RELATED: What’s the best pain reliever or fever reducer for kids?

Rest is just as vital. Letting the body recuperate goes a long way in fighting any underlying infection that might cause fever. Dressing in light, airy clothing and taking lukewarm baths can also help keep the body cool and comfortable. It might seem like an ice bath would tackle a fever even better, but this isn’t the case. Ice baths can cause shivering, which will actually increase body temperature, especially in children.

Visiting a healthcare provider for professional medical advice on how to diagnose and treat a fever’s underlying cause is a pretty surefire way to go.

90,000 High temperature – causes of occurrence, under what diseases it occurs, diagnostics and methods of treatment

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-medication. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, diagnostic tests should be prescribed only by the attending physician. For a diagnosis and correct prescription of treatment, you should contact your doctor.

High temperature – the reasons for the appearance, for what diseases it occurs, diagnostics and methods of treatment.

An increase in temperature serves as a protective reaction of the body and can occur under the influence of various factors. It is imperative to separate conditions such as hyperthermia (overheating) and fever, which is also accompanied by an increase in body temperature, but its mechanism differs from overheating and requires other measures of influence on the body.

Possible Causes

Fever is triggered by external (or exogenous) pyrogens – substances foreign to the body that have entered the bloodstream.These include infectious pyrogens: viral toxins and metabolic products of microorganisms. Also, the primary group includes non-infectious pyrogens: certain lipids, proteins and protein-containing substances that enter the body from the external environment or arise in the body during inflammatory processes, allergic reactions or the decay of tumor tissues. Primary pyrogens, interacting with cells of the immune system, initiate the production of internal, or endogenous (secondary) pyrogens – cytokines.They, acting on the center of thermoregulation in the brain, cause an increase in body temperature.

The feverish state has its own dynamics and includes several stages.

If body temperature is taken as the criterion for the course of fever, then three stages can be distinguished:

Stage 1 – a period of temperature rise;

Stage 2 – the period of preservation, or standing of the temperature;

Stage 3 – the period when the temperature drops to normal values….

Stage of temperature rise

The rate of temperature rise depends on the concentration of pyrogens in the blood and can serve as a diagnostic sign.

A rapid rise in temperature to high values ​​is observed with influenza, lobar pneumonia,

and it is also possible if a foreign protein enters the bloodstream (for example, during transfusion of blood components).In this case, there is a strong chill, there is a cooling of the skin, which is caused by a spasm of the superficial blood vessels.

A slow rise in temperature is characteristic of adenovirus infection, typhoid fever, and brucellosis. In these cases, pronounced chills may be absent, and the first sensations of the disease will be fever, dry eyes, headache, and malaise. Pale skin, cold feet and palms are possible.

What should you do?

First of all, it is necessary to warm the patient by wrapping him in a blanket.A heating pad applied to the legs and arms gives a good effect.

Temperature standing stage

After reaching the upper value, the temperature is kept at this level for some time. This period is called the stage of standing temperature, when a balance is established between heat production and heat transfer. At this stage of the disease, the patient feels fever, drowsiness. Possibly lack of appetite, thirst. Depending on the level of temperature rise, a weak or subfebrile temperature is distinguished – 37-38 ° C; moderate, or febrile – 38-39 ° C; high – 39-41 ° C and excessive – above 41 ° C.

Knocking down the temperature is not always appropriate.

Fever is a protective and adaptive reaction of the body that occurs in response to the action of pyrogens.

At a temperature of 37.5-38 ° C, the body actively fights infection. However, each person reacts differently to fever. Therefore, when deciding on a drug decrease in temperature, one should focus on well-being and accompanying symptoms.This is especially true for children. Conventionally, the threshold temperature at which it is necessary to strengthen monitoring of the state of health and external manifestations is considered to be a temperature of 38 ° C and above.

The period of keeping the temperature at a high level depends on the infectious agent, the state of the immune system and the treatment carried out.

In normal cases, this time can vary from one to five days, but with a severe course of the disease, it can stretch for several weeks.

Temperature fluctuations in a febrile patient have a certain rhythm: the maximum values ​​are observed at 5-6 pm, the minimum – at about 4-5 am and variability. With pneumonia, for example, the temperature can remain high for a long time. For bronchitis, pulmonary tuberculosis, significant daily temperature fluctuations (1-2 ° C) are characteristic. The so-called debilitating fever is very dangerous, which is characterized by sharp jumps in temperature (with a rapid rise and fall), sometimes repeated two or three times during the day.There is such a fever with sepsis, the presence of cavities in pulmonary tuberculosis and the decay of lung tissue.

What should you do?

At high temperatures, it is necessary, if possible, to free the patient from excess clothing and provide access to fresh air, excluding drafts. You can put a cold compress on the forehead and areas of large vessels (elbow and knee bends). You can wipe your body with a towel dampened in cool water.

The question of medication lowering the temperature is decided in each case individually.

It is more difficult for a person to endure not high temperature, but intoxication of the body. Therefore, the main measures should be aimed at removing toxic metabolic products from the body. This is achieved by drinking plenty of fluids, and, if necessary, by cleansing enemas.

When prescribing antipyretic drugs for children, the following nuances are taken into account:

– the child is less than three months old, and the temperature has risen above 38 ° C;

– in a previously healthy child aged three months to six years, the temperature rose above 39 ° C;

– a child with heart or lung disease has a temperature higher than 38 ° C;

– a child of any age (up to 18 years old) with convulsive syndrome, diseases of the central nervous system, in the presence of such external signs as pallor, cyanosis of the skin and cold extremities, general lethargy and lethargy, it is necessary to lower the temperature if it reaches 38 ° C …Otherwise, a convulsive syndrome may occur, which is extremely dangerous and can lead to suffocation.

At high temperatures, the functioning of all organ systems changes.

The heart rate increases by 8-10 beats per minute for each degree the temperature rises. Often there are arrhythmias, more often extrasystole (extraordinary contractions), spasm of blood vessels and increased blood pressure.

The secretory and motor functions of the gastrointestinal tract are reduced, which leads to retention of food in the intestines, and a lack of fluid causes constipation.Considering these factors, it is necessary to adjust the diet of a febrile patient. Preference should be given to liquid foods that are easily digestible, reducing the serving size but increasing the number of meals.

There is a feature that should be taken into account by patients with diabetes mellitus. It must be remembered that fever is accompanied by an increase in blood glucose levels, which requires appropriate action.

Treatment

The main antipyretic drugs include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – paracetamol, ibuprofen, diclofenac.These drugs work quickly and are quickly eliminated from the body.

Although it is common practice to take antipyretic pills, experience has shown that the side effects are more pronounced.

It is preferable to use rectal suppositories.

With this method of drug administration, the active substance enters the bloodstream through the blood vessels of the rectum. There is no irritating effect of medicines on the gastric mucosa.It becomes possible to administer the drug regardless of food intake.

Temperature reduction stage

A decrease in temperature in infectious diseases occurs either quickly and is accompanied by profuse sweating, and sometimes a drop in blood pressure, or slowly, over one or two days.

What should you do?

You can help a patient with a sharp drop in temperature by quickly changing wet clothes to dry ones and giving them hot tea.

It is important to remember that a decrease in temperature is not an indicator of recovery.

The body still contains microorganisms or viruses that can cause a second wave of the disease. Streptococcal infections are especially dangerous in this regard, which often give complications to the heart, kidneys and joints. Therefore, one should observe bed rest not only at high temperatures, but also immediately after its decrease. Upon recovery, it is recommended to perform clinical blood and urine tests.

90,000 What to do in case of ARVI with high temperature?

Autumn, winter and early spring are the time of colds. Temperature extremes, slush and rain, lack of ultraviolet radiation and vitamins affect: our weakened organisms become easy prey for viruses.

Acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) are a whole group of diseases caused by a variety of viruses. There are more than 200 types of them. However, despite the variety of pathogens, the manifestations of the common cold are very similar: fever, chills, headache, weakness, body aches, runny nose, sore throat and sore throat, cough and hoarseness.

Warm-blooded organisms, including humans, have a “built-in thermoregulator” – the hypothalamus. It analyzes information about both external and internal temperature. If the skin temperature receptors signal external cold, the hypothalamus “gives the order” to reduce heat transfer and increase heat production. As a result, the superficial vessels are narrowed, trembling occurs, “goose bumps” – and the person warms up.

The internal temperature is monitored directly by the neurons of the hypothalamus.Their work is greatly influenced by pyrogens – substances that cause an increase in body temperature. Pyrogens are produced in various pathological processes, including infectious diseases. Under the influence of pyrogens, the hypothalamus adjusts the body to reduce heat transfer and increase heat production. At the same time, the person feels chills.

Temperature rise in infectious diseases is protective. Some pathogens cannot withstand prolonged temperature increases and die.In addition, when the temperature rises, the metabolism increases, including the activation of immune processes. ¹

However, the side effects of an increase in temperature are often more dangerous than its protective function. At high temperatures, the adaptive reserves of the body are quickly depleted, there is a risk of dehydration, a threat to the central nervous system is created, the load on the heart increases, and blood viscosity increases. ³

These consequences can cause no less damage to the human body than the infection itself.

Antipyretic drugs help to get rid of undesirable phenomena associated with high temperature. Research has shown that paracetamol acts directly on the thermoregulatory center in the hypothalamus. Paracetamol prevents the hypothalamus from “ordering” the increased production of heat in the body. At the same time, in the focus of inflammation (for example, on the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract), immune processes are not inhibited. The chills disappear as the body continues to fight the infection.

And here paracetamol works: the body temperature decreases, and the immune system continues to fight the “infection” – only now it does not actively attack, but calmly keeps its spread.

It is more effective to use paracetamol in combination with other active substances, for example, with vitamin C (it participates in the formation of interferons in the body – proteins that are produced in response to a viral “invasion” ⁴ ).

Theraflu preparations contain paracetamol and other active ingredients (vitamin C, phenylephrine, pheniramine), which help to reduce fever, headache, body aches, runny nose and other symptoms of colds and flu ⁵ .

Teraflu from the first day of illness – to improve health and quality of life ⁶ .

Named the ideal temperature to fight the virus

https://ria.ru/20210901/temperatura-1748094701.html

Named the ideal temperature to fight the virus

Named the ideal temperature to fight the virus – RIA Novosti, 09/01/2021

The ideal temperature for fighting the virus has been named

It is believed that an increase in body temperature during an illness indicates a good functioning of the immune system, and its absence indicates a weakened immune system.What is … RIA Novosti, 09/01/2021

2021-09-01T04: 16

2021-09-01T04: 16

2021-09-01T09: 21

society

orvi

vladimir bolibok

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MOSCOW, September 1 – RIA Novosti. It is believed that an increase in body temperature during an illness indicates a good functioning of the immune system, and its absence indicates a weakened immune system.Allergist-immunologist Vladimir Bolibok told radio Sputnik what is the mechanism of this connection. He noted that an increase in temperature is part of the body’s protective reaction to infection. He clarified that the enzyme systems of bacteria and the genetic apparatus of viruses are designed to work at a certain temperature. … And when it grows, it becomes more difficult for these microorganisms to multiply. If a person does not have a fever with ARVI, then this means that his immune system does not actually respond to the infection.However, the specialist continued, an excessive reaction of this system can also be very dangerous. “When too many cytokines are released, a so-called hyperpyretic reaction occurs: the temperature goes far beyond 39-40 degrees. Such an increase in temperature has a bad effect on the work of internal organs, especially at work. cardiovascular system “, – said the immunologist. In some cases, such a reaction of the body can lead to malfunction of the heart, and then even to its arrest. Therefore, a patient with such a high temperature needs continuous medical supervision.According to the doctor, the “ideal” temperature at which the body is most effective at fighting infection is from a little 37 to 38.5 degrees. “In all our medical recommendations, we say that if the temperature is less than 38.5 degrees No need to take antipyretics, the body at such a temperature works well with the infection and will cope on its own, “concluded Vladimir Bolibok in an interview with Sputnik radio.

https://ria.ru/20210813/termometriya-1745585479.html

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04:16 09/01/2021 (updated: 09:21 09/01/2021)

The ideal temperature for fighting the virus was named

MOSCOW, September 1 – RIA Novosti. It is believed that an increase in body temperature during illness indicates a good functioning of the immune system, and its absence – a weakened immune system.What is the mechanism of this connection? Allergist-immunologist Vladimir Bolibok told radio Sputnik.

He noted that an increase in temperature is part of the body’s defense reaction to infection.

“The work of the immune system is determined by cytokines – molecules that are released at the moment when the cells of the immune system are activated. The immune system reacts to viruses or bacteria, cytokines enter the central nervous system, where the center of temperature regulation is located, and the body receives a signal that you need to raise the temperature, because the infection is being fought, “the doctor explained.

He specified that the enzyme systems of bacteria and the genetic apparatus of viruses are designed to work at a certain temperature. And when it grows, it becomes more difficult for these microorganisms to multiply.

August 13, 10:15 am The spread of coronavirus In Moscow, the requirement to measure temperature during the working day was canceled

If a person does not have a fever with ARVI, this means that his immune system does not actually respond to infection. However, the specialist continued, the overreaction of this system can also be very dangerous.

“When too many cytokines are released, a so-called hyperpyretic reaction occurs: the temperature goes far beyond 39-40 degrees. Such an increase in temperature has a bad effect on the work of internal organs, especially on the work of the cardiovascular system,” said the immunologist.

In some cases, such a reaction of the body can lead to malfunctions of the heart, and then even to its arrest. Therefore, a patient with such a high temperature needs continuous medical supervision.

According to the doctor, the “ideal” temperature at which the body is most effective in fighting infection is from 37 degrees above zero to 38.5 degrees.

“In all our medical recommendations, we say that if the temperature is less than 38.5 degrees, you do not need to take antipyretics, the body at this temperature works well with the infection and will cope on its own,” concluded Vladimir Bolibok in an interview with Sputnik radio.

August 31, 19:07

Protsenko warned of an imminent outbreak of coronavirus in Russia 90,000 The doctor named the diseases indicated by the high temperature in the evenings

https: // ria.ru / 20200725 / 1574897011.html

The doctor named the diseases indicated by the high temperature in the evenings

The doctor named the diseases indicated by the high temperature in the evenings – RIA Novosti, 25.07. temperature in the evenings

Physician-therapist, cardiologist, endocrinologist Tatyana Romanenko in an interview with the newspaper “Argumenty i Fakty” told what the temperature rise may indicate … RIA Novosti, 25.07.2020

2020-07-25T05: 40

2020-07-25T05: 40

2020-07-25T15: 25

Society

Health – Society

Oncology

Temperature

Russia

Tatyana Romanenko

health

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MOSCOW, July 25 – RIA Novosti. Physician-therapist, cardiologist, endocrinologist Tatyana Romanenko in an interview with the newspaper “Argumenty i Fakty” told what the temperature rise in the evening hours may indicate. The specialist noted that an increase in body temperature up to 37 degrees can be considered the norm for the evening. It is worth worrying if it rises to 37.5. The reasons for this phenomenon can be physiological: physical activity, taking hot food or certain medications, PMS, alcohol consumption.However, there may be causes of a pathological nature. Most often, an evening rise in temperature is associated with colds. Hormonal disruptions or problems in the thyroid gland (for example, with hyperthyroidism) can affect the temperature. In addition, in the evenings, the temperature rises with cancer. According to her, we are talking about a malfunction of the mechanisms of thermoregulation, which may be associated with psychogenic neurosis against a background of stress or neurogenic thermoneurosis that develops when the nervous system is disrupted.

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society, health – society, oncology, temperature, russia, tatiana romanenko, health

Immunologist pointed out the differences between influenza and coronavirus – RBK

Photo: Kirill Zykov / AGN “Moscow”

With a coronavirus infection, the high temperature lasts longer than with the flu.This was stated by the allergist, immunologist Irina Yartseva, reports “Evening Moscow”.

“Classically, we are accustomed to the fact that with flu the temperature is high, up to 39 degrees, and lasts for six days. With covid, it can last up to 10-12 days, and this is considered a mild form, ”the expert said.

Rospotrebnadzor named the differences between the symptoms of COVID-19 from the flu and the common cold

Yartseva noted that, despite this, the body of a patient with coronavirus can cope with the infection by maintaining the oxygen level in the blood at a sufficient level.However, the patient will have more severe intoxication than with the flu.

Another hallmark, the doctor added, may be a sore throat. It is usually absent in those infected with the coronavirus. The immunologist called the cough an unpredictable symptom, noting that it appears in patients with COVID-19 with lung damage.

Low temperature and high air humidity contribute to the spread of the SORS

virus

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Unprecedented heat in Canada and the Northwest of the United States: the temperature exceeded + 46 ° C, breaking the 80-year-old record

June 28, 2021

Photo author, Reuters

Photo caption,

In Vancouver, residents are cooled as they can – including with the help of special sprayers

Canada has the highest temperature on record.The west of the country, and at the same time the northwest of the United States, was covered with an unprecedented wave of warm air.

Temperatures in Lytton, British Columbia, climbed to 46.6 degrees Celsius on Sunday, breaking an 84-year record, officials said.

The so-called “thermal dome” – a fixed high-pressure zone that acts like a lid over a saucepan – has set records in other areas as well.

The US and Canadian authorities have warned citizens of the dangerous heat, which may persist until the weekend.

Photo author, Reuters

Caption,

No crowds of water in Seattle

Experts say climate change is expected to lead to more abnormal weather such as heat waves. However, it is problematic to associate any particular event with global warming: similar temperature surges were noted in this region decades ago.

The high pressure zone stretches from California to the Arctic territories of Canada and extends inland to Idaho.

Air conditioners and fans operate at full capacity in cities, special cooling zones have appeared. Some bars and restaurants – and even one pool – have temporarily closed because it is too hot inside.

Lytton, which is located about 250 kilometers northeast of Vancouver, broke the previous Canadian record by one and a half degrees: in July 1937, there was a 45-degree heat in these parts.

More than 40 other locations in British Columbia have also updated their temperature records.

Environment Canada Senior Climatologist David Phillips said in an interview with CTV: “It’s always nice to break a record, but that record isn’t just broken – it’s smashed to pieces. Parts of western Canada are hotter than Dubai.”

Phillips believes that 47 degrees is not the limit.

British Columbia utilities are reporting skyrocketing energy use, which is not surprising since all the air conditioners that might still be running are running at the same time.

Environment Canada said Alberta and parts of Saskatchewan, Yukon and the Northwest Territories must also prepare for the heat wave.

Forecasters of the ministry predict that “this week there will be prolonged, dangerous hot weather” with temperatures 10-15 degrees above normal, and in many places – about +40.

The “historic” heat in the US Northwest

The Pacific Northwest — Washington and Oregon — is also breaking records.

The US National Weather Service called the heat wave “historical” and said it will stand for a week, with multiple new temperature records for the day, month, and possibly absolute, likely to be set.

Photo author, Reuters

Caption to photo,

I don’t want to work especially in such heat …

Seattle and Portland – constant objects of jokes about rainy weather – may be among these record holders: in both cities the temperature has already reached 40 degrees Celsius.

Oregon eased coronavirus restrictions by opening swimming pools and air-conditioned areas, in particular some shopping malls. At the same time, one pool in Seattle had to be closed due to “unsafe” temperatures inside.

Gardeners rushed to harvest, fearing that the heat would damage the cherries and other fruits. The gathering begins at dawn and ends in the afternoon when the heat becomes unbearable.

Photo author, Reuters

Caption,

In Portland, Oregon, people hide from the heat in special air-conditioned rooms

In Eugene, Oregon, on Sunday, the qualifying competitions for the US Olympic athletics team had to be stopped – spectators were told leave the stadium for security reasons.

Some Covid-19 vaccination centers have also closed due to the heat.

Temperatures in coastal areas are expected to drop by the end of the week, but in far from the Idaho Sea, for example, it will be around +40 all week. The National Weather Service suggests parts of the state could be hit by “one of the most extreme and longest heat waves in the history of the US Inland Northwest.”

Citizens are advised to protect themselves from dehydration, avoid physical activity and often check the well-being of vulnerable people.

Analysis

Roger Harrabin, Analyst

It is not yet safe to say that this heat was caused by industrial emissions this is the kind of abnormal weather that scientists warned about if CO2 emissions continue to rise.

Scientists are gaining a better understanding of the links between extreme weather events and climate change, such as the rare 2019 heat wave in Europe.The emissions of carbon dioxide have increased the likelihood of its occurrence by 100 times, the researchers said.

Particularly worrisome is that the record heat hit a global average temperature of just 1.1 degrees Celsius higher than in pre-industrial times.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change believes that in the near future we are likely to exceed this level by 1.5 degrees. And at the current rate of growth in emissions – perhaps two degrees or more.

However, China and India continue to build new coal-fired power plants.And the G7 countries – Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Great Britain and the United States – are still not ready to give an exact date for the complete phase-out of fossil fuels.

The UK and other countries are still drilling for additional oil and gas reserves, claiming they will be needed until at least 2050.

Meanwhile, the climate change situation looks more and more like an emergency.