When does a fever become worrisome?

If you are achy, have chills and feel a little nauseous, it’s likely you are experiencing a fever. The good news is that it’s a sign your body is actively working to eliminate an infection.

The average body temperature is approximately 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, though it can vary among individuals and fluctuate throughout the day. A fever is defined as a body temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and is the body’s natural response to infection.

Most fevers are not worrisome and resolve without medical intervention. However, certain situations are more serious.

“You should seek medical attention if you have a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for more than three days without improvement, reach a fever of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, recently traveled abroad, are immunocompromised, or recently had surgery or were discharged from the hospital,” explains Dr. Manasvi Kulshrestha, a family medicine physician at Advocate Health Care.

Seek medical evaluation for these accompanying symptoms:

• Seizures
• Lightheadedness, generalized weakness and loss of consciousness
• Confusion and behavior changes
• Stiff neck
• Rash
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe headache
• Painful urination
• Difficulty tolerating oral food or drink
• Persistent or worsening cough

Dr. Kulshrestha says these high-risk populations should seek medical attention if they experience the following:

• Infants under 3 months old with a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
• Adults aged 65 or older who have lower or absent fever but show signs of confusion, behavior changes or fast breathing.
• Individuals who are immunocompromised and have a low-grade fever which could be a sign of serious infection.

“It’s crucial to monitor a fever’s progression and accompanying symptoms,” says Dr. Kulshrestha. “Recognizing when to seek medical attention ensures timely intervention and reduces the risk of complications.”

Fortunately, she says most mild fevers can be treated at home by:

• Drinking plenty of fluids, specifically water, electrolyte solution and broth.
• Avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
• Resting to avoid elevating your body temperature so your body can recover.
• Taking a fever-reducing over-the-counter medication.
• Keeping your environment cool but comfortable. This includes dressing in breathable clothes and using a light blanket if chilled.

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