Fever

Fevers: When to Worry

Fevers can be caused by any number of illnesses and can play an essential role in assisting your body fight a variety of infections. Depending on the cause of your fever, it may also be accompanied by several other symptoms, including sweats, chills, muscle aches, weakness, headache, loss of appetite, dehydration, and irritability. A fever in itself may not always be cause for concern, but there are some circumstances in which you should seek medical attention for yourself or for your child.

Seeking Medical Attention for a Fever

A fever occurs when an individual’s temperature is above the normal range, which is around 98.6 F. Those who are suffering from a fever may experience chills and body shivers that ultimately generate more body heat. Although 98.6 F is generally considered a body’s normal temperature, 97 F to 99 F are normal as well.

In some cases, the cause of a fever cannot be identified. However, they are generally caused by a bacterial infection, virus, certain medications and immunizations, heat exhaustion, and some inflammatory conditions.

Moreover, the age of the individual should also play a part in when you decide to seek medical attention. If your child is over the age of 2 and responsive, but feverish, there may not be a cause for immediate concern.

If your child exhibits the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention:

  • Vomiting, stomachache, severe headache, listlessness, or any other symptoms that cause great discomfort
  • Fever has lasted for more than three days
  • Cannot maintain eye contact

For adults, if you have a temperature of 103 F or higher, you should call a doctor.

Additionally, seek medical attention if your fever is accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Severe headache
  • Painful urination
  • Convulsions
  • Confusion
  • Trouble breathing
  • Skin rash
  • Chest pain
  • Stiff neck

Preventing a Fever

Given that fevers are often caused by infectious diseases, there are some healthy habits you can employ to avoid them.

Here are some tips that can help you prevent fevers:

  • Wash your hands
  • Keep hand sanitizer with you
  • Do not share water bottles, cups, or utensils
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
  • Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing

Quality Emergency Care Available 24/7

Not every fever is cause for concern, but when they are, you will need quality medical care to meet your emergency needs. At ER of Texas, we are equipped to handle a vast range of treatment procedures and emergency medical care.

If you are in need of emergency medical attention, contact us at or dial 911.

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