Fever

Fever is an increase in body temperature that typically indicates the body's response to an infection or other health conditions. It's a common symptom of various illnesses and is generally defined as a body temperature above the normal range of 98.6°F (37°C). Fever can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections (bacterial or viral), inflammatory conditions, heat exhaustion, certain medications, and more.

Causes of Fever:

Infections:

Viral Infections: Common colds, flu, COVID-19, and other viral illnesses.
Bacterial Infections: Strep throat, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, tuberculosis.
Parasitic Infections: Malaria, toxoplasmosis.

Inflammatory Conditions:

Autoimmune Diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus.
Other Inflammatory Conditions: Inflammatory bowel disease, vasculitis.

Heat-related Conditions:

Heat Exhaustion: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Heatstroke: A severe form of heat illness where the body's temperature regulation fails.

Medications:

Drug Fever: Some medications, such as antibiotics or blood pressure drugs, can cause a fever as a side effect.

Vaccination:

Post-Vaccination Fever: A mild fever can occur after immunization, as the body builds immunity.

Other Causes:

Cancer: Certain cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma, can cause fever.
Hormonal Disorders: Hyperthyroidism can lead to an elevated body temperature.

Symptoms Associated with Fever:

Sweating
Chills and Shivering
Headache
Muscle Aches
Dehydration
Loss of Appetite
Weakness
Irritability

Diagnosing Fever:

Temperature Measurement: Using a thermometer to measure body temperature is the most direct method to confirm fever. Temperatures can be measured orally, rectally, axillary (underarm), or using an ear or forehead thermometer.
History and Physical Examination: A healthcare provider may take a detailed medical history and perform a physical exam to determine the cause of the fever.
Laboratory Tests: Blood tests, urine tests, imaging, or other diagnostics may be ordered to identify the underlying cause of the fever.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

Infants: Any fever in infants under 3 months should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
High Fever: Fever above 104°F (40°C) in children or adults.
Persistent Fever: If the fever lasts more than three days or does not respond to home treatment.
Severe Symptoms: Accompanying symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, seizures, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash.
Underlying Conditions: Individuals with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems should consult a healthcare provider.

Fever Management:

Home Treatment: Fever can often be managed at home with rest, hydration, and medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and discomfort.
Medical Treatment: If the fever is due to a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be necessary. Treatment for underlying conditions like inflammatory diseases will depend on the specific diagnosis.