A fever is defined as the temporary rise in body temperature, typically due to an illness. It is a sign that something is not right with your body. While uncomfortable, fever is not a cause of concern until it reaches 103 Fahrenheit or above. 

However, in toddlers and infants, even a slight fever may be a sign of severe infection. And, he or she might have to rush to the San Antonio emergency room Brooks City Base. Generally, the fever goes away within a couple of days. There are a number of medications that can lower the temperature.

Symptoms Indicating Fever 

The average body temperature is 98.6 Fahrenheit. The temperature that is above this level is the first sign of fever. And, based on what the reason behind the fever is, you may have the following symptoms:

  • Headaches 
  • Sweating 
  • Chills and shivering 
  • Muscle aches 
  • Headaches 
  • Irritability 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • General weakness 
  • Dehydration 

Moreover, children who are between 6-months and five years old can also experience febrile seizures. In this situation, you will have to take the child to the San Antonio emergency room, Brooks City Base. 

Causes of Fever 

Fever occurs in the hypothalamus region of the brain, also known as the thermostat of the body. When it pushes the body temperature beyond a set point, it results in fever. 

When this occurs, you may feel any of the above symptoms. The most common sign is feeling chills or shivers to generate more body heat. 

Throughout the day, your body temperature changes. It is lower in the morning and rises as the day continues to unfold. Some of the common causes of fever include: 

  • A bacterial infection 
  • A virus 
  • Heat exhaustion 
  • A malignant tumor 
  • Inflammatory conditions 
  • Certain medications 
  • Some types of immunizations 

Children who are around six months to 5 years may experience febrile seizures or fever-induced convulsions that typically involve shaking limbs or fainting. While it can be an alarming situation for parents, a majority of febrile seizures do not leave any lasting impacts.

In case of seizure, follow these steps:

  • Lay down your child on the side of the stomach on the ground 
  • Ensure there are no sharp objects nears him or her 
  • Loosen up any tight clothing 
  • Hold your child to eliminate the chances of injury 
  • Do not try to stop the seizure or place anything in his or her mouth

These seizures stop on their own. Make sure to get your child to the doctor immediately to identify the cause of the fever. If the seizure lasts for more than five minutes, call for emergency medical assistance.

The treatment of fever varies depending on what caused it in the first place. Along with over the counter medications, you can lower the temperature by drinking the right amount of clear liquids like water, juices, broth, etc. and taking proper rest, keeping yourself calm, and taking a lukewarm bath. 

An acute fever can last for under seven days, whereas a subacute illness can go up to 14 days. And lastly, you can experience a chronic fever for over 14 days. 

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should get yourself checked. While it might be nothing serious, and the fever goes on its own in a couple of days, it is better to stay assured about your well-being.