What Temperature is a Fever in Adults?
A fever, also known as pyrexia, is a body temperature that is higher than normal. In adults, a fever is generally defined as a temperature of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher.
Types of Fever
Fevers can be classified into three different types based on their severity:
- Low-grade fever: 100.4°F to 102.2°F (38.0°C to 39.0°C)
- Moderate fever: 102.3°F to 104.0°F (39.1°C to 40.0°C)
- High-grade fever: 104.1°F or higher (40.1°C or higher)
Causes of Fever
Fevers are usually caused by the body’s immune response to an infection or illness. The most common causes of fever in adults include:
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, such as the flu, pneumonia, or urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics or antihistamines, can cause fever as a side effect
- Medical conditions: Underlying medical conditions, such as cancer or autoimmune diseases, can also lead to fever
- Immunizations: Getting vaccinated can sometimes cause a low-grade fever
Symptoms of Fever
In addition to an elevated body temperature, fever can also cause a range of other symptoms, including:
- Chills
- Sweating
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion or delirium (especially in high-grade fevers)
When to Seek Medical Attention
Most fevers are not serious and will resolve on their own within a few days. However, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- A fever that lasts for more than three days
- A fever that is accompanied by severe symptoms, such as confusion, delirium, or stiff neck
- A fever that does not respond to over-the-counter fever reducers
- A fever that occurs after a recent injury or surgery
- If you have a weakened immune system or underlying medical conditions
Treatment for Fever
The main goal of fever treatment is to reduce the body temperature and relieve discomfort. Treatment options include:
- Over-the-counter fever reducers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help to lower fever and relieve pain
- Rest: Getting plenty of rest can help the body to fight off infection and recover
- Fluids: Staying hydrated is important to prevent dehydration, which can worsen fever symptoms
- Cool compress: Applying a cool compress to the forehead or armpits can help to lower body temperature
- Prescribed medications: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications to treat the underlying infection
Prevention of Fever
While it is not always possible to prevent fever, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing a fever, such as:
- Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of infection
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
- Get vaccinated against common infections, such as the flu and pneumonia
- If you have a fever, stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the infection to others
Conclusion
Fever is a common symptom of illness and infection. In adults, a fever is generally defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher. While most fevers are not serious and will resolve on their own within a few days, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any severe symptoms or if your fever does not improve with home treatment.
