Fevers

Fever is usually described as an unusual rise in body temperature mainly in response to the introduction of an infection or virus in the body. Fevers aren’t always something to be concerned about. You can experience a little heat in your body after a long busy day due to fatigue but this might go away after some rest. However, if the fever persists for more than 48 hours it is suggested to visit a doctor.

What are fevers?

Fevers are the natural coping mechanisms of our body against the attack of a foreign bacteria or virus. The normal body temperature is 98.6° Fahrenheit (36-37°C), temperature above 102°F should be treated immediately to prevent further complications.

For adults, fevers can cause fatigue and a little uneasiness but for infants and toddlers, fevers can cause serious conditions if left untreated. According to studies, high fevers can cause seizures and brain damage in about 2-5% of children between 6 months and 5 years.

Causes of fevers

Fever or pyrexia can be caused due to countless reasons. Infections aren’t the only sole causes of fevers, they may result due to inflammations, allergies, reactions to drugs, etc.

Some of the common causes of fevers are listed below:

• Common cold/ flu
• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Covid 19
• Inflammation causing diseases like Rheumatoid arthritis
• Side effects of medications, vaccines, and immunizations
• Heat exhaustion
• Teething in infants and toddlers
• Increased stress levels
• Abnormal hormone levels
• Cancer

Signs one may have a fever

We usually get a fever when our body is trying to fight against infection-causing viruses and bacteria. Slight fevers aren’t something to agonize about. They can be caused by exhaustion, insomnia, or stress. However, if the fever lasts for more than two days you should refer to a healthcare provider for immediate treatment.

The symptoms of fever may vary according to which type of infection has attacked the body. Some of the common signs and symptoms people notice are:

• Elevated body temperature
• Shivering and chills
• Sweating
• Headaches and dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration
• Body aches
• Vomits

Children between 6 months and 5 years can experience febrile seizures. These may cause stiffness in the body, twitching of limbs, or loss of consciousness. Call 911 and get immediate medical care for your child if the seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes.

When to seek treatment for fevers?

Slight fevers can easily be treated at your home while high-grade fevers require special medical attention.

In infants, an unexplained fever is a greater cause of concern. Confer your doctor if your child has a temperature of more than 100.4°F. Between the ages of 3 to 24 months, a temperature between 102°F lasting more than a day should be a point of concern for the parents.

If the temperature is 103°F or higher in adults accompanied by vomiting, breathlessness, diarrhea, or convulsions make sure to get immediate medical attention.

OnPointe Care professional services can help diagnose and treat any such underlying condition that might be causing unexplained fevers. Unexplained fever should never be taken lightly and prompt medical care must be administered if they persist.

Takeaways

Viruses and bacteria have become way deadlier and more dangerous than before. Taking measures to combat them has become a basic necessity in recent times.

You may be able to prevent fevers by following common healthcare guidelines like washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching your nose or mouth to remain healthy and fit at all times. But to live your life to the fullest you need to ensure that you’re not being affected by any underlying conditions.

Visit your nearest OnPointe Care Location in Bartlett or Cordova, and embark on a journey towards perfect health that allows you to live your life without compromise.