When it comes to common illnesses, fever often becomes an all-too-familiar symptom, raising concerns for caregivers and patients alike.
Understanding fever-associated illnesses are important for managing the situation effectively. For instance, recognizing when to seek medical help, and knowing when to consider a body temperature as a fever is key to proper caregiving.
A fever is the body's response to a variety of illnesses, including bacterial or viral infections. Here are some common ailments that may present with fever:
Often caused by a viral infection, colds and flu can lead to a mild to moderate fever. These are typically accompanied by cough, sneezing, sore throat, and body aches. While most symptoms usually resolve in about a week, a lingering cough can last for a few weeks. Preventive measures like regular hand washing and getting a seasonal flu vaccine can greatly reduce the chances of catching these illnesses.
While discomfort during urination is the hallmark of UTIs, a fever can also be present, signaling that the infection may have moved toward the kidneys.
UTIs are more common in women due to a shorter urethra, which allows bacteria to travel up to the bladder more easily. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding the delay of urination can help prevent UTIs.
Commonly known as stomach flu, it is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection and may involve fever along with vomiting and diarrhea. Hydration is critical during a bout of gastroenteritis, as the body can lose a significant amount of fluids and electrolytes.
Avoiding contaminated food and water and practicing good hygiene can help prevent gastroenteritis.
COVID-19
Fever is one of the key symptoms of COVID-19, along with cough, loss of taste or smell, and difficulty breathing. It is highly contagious and spreads mainly through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Vaccination, wearing masks, and social distancing are currently the most effective methods to prevent COVID-19.
Especially common in children, these can cause a fever along with ear pain and sometimes, reduced hearing. These infections are typically caused by bacteria or viruses and can be a result of another illness such as a cold or flu.
For most minor illnesses, the fever can be managed at home with over-the-counter fever reducers, hydration, and rest.
However, seeking medical help becomes necessary when:
The fever is persistent and lasts more than a few days.
The fever is very high (above 104°F).
The individual is excessively drowsy, irritable, or having trouble breathing.
The fever is accompanied by severe symptoms like severe headache, neck stiffness, repeated vomiting, or a rash.
In infants and young children, the threshold for seeking help is lower - any fever in a child younger than 3 months or a high or persistent fever in older children warrants a call to the doctor.
Now, for the million-dollar question, "Is 99.6 a fever ?" While the average body temperature is often cited as 98.6°F, normal body temperature can range between 97°F and 99°F, influenced by factors such as physical activity and time of day.
Most medical professionals consider an ear temperature of 100.4°F or higher to be a fever.
Hence, a temperature of 99.6°F may not be classified as a fever in most cases.
However, if an individual has a temperature of 99.6°F to 100.3°F and exhibits symptoms like feeling feverish, or has localized aches, including headache, it may be considered a low-grade fever.
Understanding common illnesses involving fever, knowing when to seek help, and correctly interpreting body temperature is critical for optimal health management.
Being informed allows us to respond promptly and appropriately, ensuring better outcomes for those under our care.
UNDERSTANDING FEVER: DIFFERENT ILLNESSES, CAREGIVER RESPONSES, AND FEVER THRESHOLDS
