Fevers can be uncomfortable, even frightening— but they’re working for you, not against you.

A fever (a higher-than-normal body temperature) is not an illness. Rather, it’s the body’s response to an infection.

Fevers help you fight an infection by turning on your immune system. They can also thwart the bacteria and viruses that cause infection because a fever can make it harder for these germs to survive.

Although body temperature varies based on the time of day, adults most likely have a fever when their temperature is above 99 to 99.5 degrees.

Causes
Infections cause most fevers. Body temperature can also be raised by certain medications, cancer, autoimmune disease, heat exhaustion, exercise (especially in high heat or humidity), strong emotions, and wearing heavy clothing.

Infections that are likely to cause a fever include:

• Colds, flu, sore throat, and infections of the ear, sinuses, and urinary tract n Viral or bacterial stomach flu
• Pneumonia, appendicitis, and meningitis
• Arthritis, lupus, colitis, and Crohn’s disease

Self-Care
If a fever is mild and has no worrisome symptoms, drinking plenty of fluids and getting lots of rest is treatment enough. If someone with a fever is uncomfortable, vomiting, not sleeping well, or feeling dehydrated, take these steps to lower the fever:

• Get rid of excess clothing and blankets. Keep the room temperature moderate, and turn on a fan if the room is stuffy.
• Give the person a lukewarm bath or sponge bath.
• Have the person take an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Make sure you follow the package directions, carefully heeding dose size and frequency. Don’t give aspirin to children.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Call a doctor if an adult:

• Has a fever that stays at 103 degrees
• Has a fever that lasts more than 48 to 72 hours
• Has a fever that comes and goes for a week
• Has a heart condition, diabetes, a chronic lung condition, or other serious illness
• Has a fever along with a rash, bruises, or pain with urination The treatment your doctor prescribes will depend on the cause, length, and symptoms of the fever.

For more information, visit the American Academy of Family Physicians at www.familydoctor.org.

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