Fever

A fever occurs when your body is fighting off a cold or other illness. If you spike a high fever that won’t go away, you can rely on the expert care available at AssociatesMD. The experienced physicians offer on-site diagnostic testing to better understand the cause of your fever. They also customize a care plan to reduce your temperature, so you feel like yourself again. Call the office today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.

What causes a fever?

A fever is a protective immune system response that causes an increase in your body temperature. The hypothalamus region of your brain regulates your body temperature, which fluctuates throughout the day but averages about 98.5℉.

When your immune system detects bacteria or other substances, the hypothalamus increases your body temperature to fight it. One of the most common causes of a fever is a bacterial or viral infection.

You can also develop a fever as a side effect of:

• Cancer
• Vaccines
• Heat exhaustion
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Certain medications

When should I seek medical care for a fever?

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at AssociatesMD if you have a persistent fever that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications and rest, or if you have symptoms such as:

• Skin rash
• Stiff neck
• Intense headache
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Abdominal pain
• Seizures

You should also seek care if your temperature is 103℉ or higher.

How is a fever treated?

Treatment depends on the root cause of your fever and body temperature. Home care for low-grade fevers might include staying cool, resting, and staying hydrated. For high fevers, the team may recommend ibuprofen or other over-the-counter medications. They can prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections.

Call AssociatesMD to schedule a diagnostic evaluation today.