Fever

What is it?

Fever is a signal that all is not quite well. It is a symptom, not a disease in itself. Body temperature varies throughout the day. It is usually lower in the morning and higher in the late afternoon and evening. Body temperature is affected by exercise and the temperature around us. A fever is a body temperature over 99.6 degrees by mouth.

What causes it?

A fever is the body’s response to various infections and certain other conditions.

What should you do about it?

The following treatment will help you feel more comfortable:

• Don’t wear an excess of clothing or bundle in heavy blanket. This may make the fever go higher. Instead, use usual clothing and covers.
• You may take acetaminophen or ibuprofen in the usually doses recommended over the counter to reduce temperature – usually 1000 mg of acetaminophen or 400 mg of ibuprofen every 4 hours for an adult.
• Bathing or showering with lukewarm water can also reduce fever. Avoid cold or hot showers or baths.

Remember…

• A fever, although uncomfortable, is not usually harmful in itself.
• Treating fever will not affect the underlying problem; it will make you feel more comfortable.

Call us if…

• You temperature is 101 degrees or more.
• Your fever lasts more than 2 days.
• You have trouble breathing or chest pain.
• You have a skin rash.
• You have pain on urination, bloody diarrhea, severe sore throat, ear pain, or joint pains.
• You have a severe headache and/or stiff neck.
• You have trouble staying awake and feel dazed.
• You have any questions or are worried about your condition.