10 Fever Symptoms

By alysha

Reviewed: dr. vanta

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. ’Fever.’ Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 13 May 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20352759
• 2. 'Chills: Causes & Treatment.' Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21476-chills
• 3. 'Dehydration.' Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 19 Sept. 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086
• 4. Leung, Alexander Kc, et al. 'Febrile Seizures: an Overview.' Drugs in Context, BioExcel Publishing Ltd, 16 July 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6052913/

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A fever occurs when the body's core temperature is elevated above its normal range due to a medical condition or illness. Fevers are commonly caused by a viral or bacterial infection, where the body's natural response is to increase its temperature to kill the microbes.

A fever can cause an individual to feel unwell and bring with it a host of other symptoms. Although mild fevers usually go away on their own after a few days, some medications can help lower fevers sooner or alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Drinking plenty of fluids, getting enough rest and wearing lightweight clothing may also help speed up recovery.¹’Fever.’ Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 13 May 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20352759

Higher Than Normal Body Temperature

The hallmark symptom of fever is a high body temperature. The average normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees, however, this can vary between individuals. A temperature within the range of 97 to 99 degrees is generally considered normal. Typically, adults don't need to be concerned unless their temperature reaches 103 degrees or higher. However, when a baby or child has a higher-than-normal temperature, it may be a sign of a more severe infection.

Different types of thermometers can be used to take a person's temperature, such as oral, rectal, ear and forehead thermometers.¹’Fever.’ Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 13 May 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20352759