Fevers are common and are often a sign that your body is fighting off an infection of some sort. A fever can be caused by many things, including bacterial or viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and even certain medications.

While a fever can sometimes be a good thing, as it helps your body to fight off an infection, if it gets too high or lasts for too long it can become dangerous. In this article, we will discuss ways that you can take care of a fever and when you should seek medical attention.

What is a Fever?

A fever occurs when your body’s internal thermostat, the hypothalamus, raises your body temperature above its normal range. A normal body temperature is typically between 97.7 °F (36.5°C) and 99.5 °F (37.5°C).

Anything above this range is considered a fever. When your body senses an infection, it raises your temperature to help fight it off.

Signs and Symptoms

If you have a fever, you may experience a range of symptoms, including:.

Chills and sweats
Headache
Muscle aches and weakness
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Irritability
Dehydration

If you have a high fever, over 103 °F (39.4°C) or if you have a fever that lasts for more than two days, you should see a doctor.

Causes of Fever

Fevers can be caused by many things, but they are most commonly caused by infections, such as:.

Flu
Colds
Sore throat
Urinary tract infections
Ear infections
Pneumonia
Gastrointestinal infections

Other factors that can cause a fever include:.

Autoimmune diseases
Cancer
Medications
Heat exhaustion
Malaria

Treatment for Fever

If you have a fever, there are several steps you can take to help reduce it:.

Take a fever reducer. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), and aspirin can help reduce a fever.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, broth, and juice, to help your body stay hydrated.
Dress in light clothing. This will help your body regulate its temperature.
Get enough rest. Your body needs rest to help fight off the infection that is causing the fever.

If your fever persists for more than three days or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as a severe headache, rash or stomach pain, you should see your doctor.

When to See a Doctor

As mentioned earlier, if you have a high fever (over 103 °F or 39.4°C) or if your fever lasts for more than two days, you should see a doctor. In addition, you should also see a doctor if you have:.

A fever and a severe headache
Joint pain and stiffness
A rash
Difficulty breathing
Severe abdominal pain
Chest pain or tightness
Difficulty swallowing or speaking

If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away as they could be signs of a more serious condition.

Prevention of Fever

While some fevers are unavoidable, there are things you can do to help prevent others. These include:.

Washing your hands regularly. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.
Avoiding close contact with sick people. This can also help prevent the spread of infections.
Eating a healthy diet. A healthy diet can help boost your immune system, making it better able to fight off infections.
Getting enough rest. Your body needs rest to stay healthy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a fever can be a sign that your body is fighting off an infection, but if it gets too high or lasts for too long, it can become dangerous.

If you have a fever, there are steps you can take to reduce it, such as taking a fever reducer, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. However, if your fever persists or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.

By taking steps to prevent fevers, such as washing your hands and avoiding close contact with sick people, you can help keep yourself healthy.