The Signs, Causes, and Treatment Measures of Fever
You will be seen as having a fever if your temperature is above 38.0 °C. Fevers below 38.0°C are considered to be low grade. They do not need medical attention unless you begin showing troubling symptoms. Fever shouldn’t be confused with hypothermia, which is the way your body responds to heat.
Fever could also be a symptom of stomach flu or colds. In children, immunization or teething could result in a fever. Sometimes a fever can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection that could be contagious. Under such conditions, you are advised to visit an emergency room near you for treatment.
How to Take Fever Temperature
There are various ways and different gadgets used to take your body temperature. They include oral, ear, rectal and forehead thermometers.
Our doctors at Altus Emergency Center in Waxahachie recommend you avoid using glass thermometers since they are prone to accidents. When using the rectal thermometers, apply a generous amount of petroleum jelly on the bulb before inserting about 1 inch of the thermometer in your rectum to avoid any discomfort. Hold it for at least three minutes to get accurate results.
The oral thermometer is placed under the tongue for at least three minutes. Close your mouth for accurate results. It can also be placed on your armpits. Let it rest for at least five minutes in your armpits before removing.
Digital thermometers will beep if they have the temperature. If you are not sure about the type of thermometer to use, contact our 24-hour emergency clinic at Waxahachie for more information.
Causes of Fever
There are various reasons why you will start experiencing fever symptoms. They include:
- Viral or bacterial infections such as chickenpox, pneumonia, strep throat, and inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
- Fever induced by medications such as antibiotics or those used in seizures and high blood pressure treatments
- Food poisoning
- Sunburns
Symptoms of Fever
The symptoms usually depend on the cause. Some of these signs include:
- Rapid heartbeats
- Shaking chills and shivers
- Excess sweating which leads to dehydration
- Loss of appetite, which could lead to reduced weight
- Weakness
- Headaches, muscle, and joint aches
- Flushed skin and sore eyes
Symptoms that will prompt you to seek immediate care at an ER near you.
- Severe headaches
- Skin rash
- Stiff or aching neck
- Pain while urinating
- Chest pain
- Swollen throat
- Abdominal pain
- Seizures
You might experience hallucinations and confusion if the fever is very high. Be sure to seek immediate medical attention at an emergency clinic near you in Waxahachie.
How to Diagnose and Treat Fever
Fever is a symptom. The doctor makes a diagnosis by checking your temperature and examining the cause. You will be asked about the symptoms you have been experiencing and your medical history. Tests will be made to confirm the diagnosis. Some of the tests done are:
- Urine test.
- Imaging test.
- Blood test.
Treatment is done depending on the cause, and at times, prescribed drugs from your local pharmacy should do.
However, there are several steps you can take to reduce the discomfort caused by the fever. They include:
- Reduce the amount of clothing you have on you to prevent the temperature from elevating. If you start feeling cold, wear more clothes.
- Have sponge baths with water of 30°C. Do not soak in iced water. A nice warm bath will also help soothe your joints.
- Open up the windows to allow the circulation of fresh air into the room. Place a damp washcloth on the forehead.
- Hydrate. Water or soups will help your body to prevent dehydration.
You will require a lot of rest to help your body to regain and heal properly.
How to Prevent Fever
- Limited exposure to viruses or bacteria will reduce your chances of getting a fever.
- Avoid sharing utensils such as cups and spoons with other people without thoroughly washing them with soap.
- Do not put your hands on your mouth or eyes to prevent bacteria and viruses from entering your body and cause infections.
- Wash your hands before eating, after visiting the toilet, or after being in a crowded place. You could have collected a lot of bacteria and viruses.