Levels of Fever
Typically, body temperature is measured if it is greater than 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. However, a significant fever is not deemed until the body temperature rises above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Children aged 3 months or older with a temperature of nearly 100.4°F must be evaluated by a medical professional. The children may not exhibit any symptoms other than fever, but they must be evaluated promptly.
Low-level Fever
The medical community defines fever as a body temperature above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. If the body’s temperature is between 100.4 and 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit, it is referred to as a low-grade fever.
Low-grade fever does not necessitate extensive treatment unless the patient is a juvenile or the fever recurs in a young infant. There are numerous causes of low-grade fever, including the common cold and influenza, which are significant contributors to fever. Low-grade fever is characterized by warm skin, headache, muscle aches, perspiration, and glassy eyes.
This temperature can be reduced without the use of medication. There are many ways to lower the body’s temperature, including donning minimal clothing, bathing in lukewarm water, drinking plenty of fluids, staying hydrated, and getting sufficient rest.
Severe Fever
When the body’s temperature rises above 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit, it indicates a more severe infection. The majority of fevers resolve within a few days with appropriate care and medication.
However, there are certain conditions that require immediate medical observation.
If the fever persists for more than a few days, medical attention is required.
Antibiotics and fever-reducers, such as acetaminophen, have failed to alleviate the fever.
The patient is experiencing photophobia, cervical stiffness, and confusion.
The symptoms, including increased regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and extreme weakness, are worsening.
A very young neonate with a rectal temperature of at least 100.4°F.
Any temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit in a child can cause convulsions.
A child older than two years old is experiencing fever, rashes, migraines, diarrhea, and irritability.
Any adult with a fever over 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
All of these conditions must be treated seriously, and the patient must see a physician before the condition worsens.
