A fever is usually a temporary symptom of an underlying illness, like a cold, and a sign your immune system is fighting something off.
At Revival Health Clinic, Amneh Amro, PA-C, offers urgent care services through a convenient telemedicine platform. This means you can seek medical attention if you’re concerned about a fever without having to leave home.
While not all fevers warrant medical attention, in some instances you should contact our clinic to discuss your health needs.
What to know about a fever
A fever describes a rise in your usual body temperature. The average body temperature Is 98.6, but it can vary from person to person.
There are many reasons why you may develop a fever; some reasons are more serious than others. Issues that can trigger a fever include:
- Viruses
- Bacterial infections
- Heat exhaustion or heat stroke
- Use of certain medications
You may also develop a slight fever after receiving immunizations to protect against contagious diseases, like tetanus, pertussis, COVID-19, and the seasonal flu.
The right time to get medical help for a fever
Adults typically can treat a fever at home unless their temperature is 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. You should also get medical attention right away if you have other symptoms along with a fever, such as:
- Stiff neck
- Severe headache
- Skin rash
- Increased sensitivity to bright light
- Mental confusion
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Seizures
In children, fevers accompanied by vomiting, irritability, and headaches require medical attention. Infants with a temperature of 100.4 F or higher should be seen by a doctor.
While the underlying causes of fever may not always be identifiable, it’s always best to err on the side of caution when dealing with a sudden or lasting fever. Untreated high fevers that persist for days can lead to seizures, especially in children.
Treatment options for fevers
A thermometer is the most accurate way to determine if you have a fever. There are oral, rectal, and digital thermometers available that make checking your temperature throughout the day easy.
Amneh can meet with you virtually through the telemedicine platform to determine if you need additional diagnostic testing. She customizes a treatment plan for your needs based on the potential causes of your fever.
Many people are able to treat a low-grade fever with plenty of fluids and over-the-counter fever reducers. However, if you have a high fever, Amneh can provide more guidance for successfully treating it at home.
In addition to taking fever-reducing medications, you may also need a course of antibiotics to clear a bacterial infection. Few drugs are available to treat viral infections, so you may need to manage your fever by taking cool baths, drinking lots of fluids, and resting. Make sure to wear light clothing to keep you cool.
If you have concerns about a high fever or a fever that won’t go away, call Revival Health Clinic to schedule a telemedicine visit today, or book an appointment online.