When to Seek Medical Attention for a Fever

A fever commonly signals an underlying illness, indicating your immune system is actively combating the infection. 

At NewMed Immediate Care in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, Ruchir Thakkar, DO, and his team offer urgent care services so you can address fever concerns promptly.

Not all fevers require medical attention, but certain circumstances do. 

Dr. Thakkar explains when that's the case. 

What constitutes a fever?

A fever is a temporary elevation in your normal body temperature. While the average body temperature is 98.6° F, individual variations exist. A fever is an oral temperature of 100° F (37.8° C) or higher or an armpit temperature of 99° F (37.2° C) or higher.

Common causes of a fever:

• Viruses
• Bacterial infections
• Heat-related issues (heat exhaustion or heat stroke)
• Certain medications
• Post-immunization reactions (e.g., tetanus, pertussis, COVID-19, and seasonal flu vaccines)

Determining your cause may require testing, an in-person examination, or a telehealth consultation.

When to seek medical help for a fever

Managing a fever at home is usually sufficient for adults unless the temperature exceeds 103° F. Immediate medical attention is also necessary if accompanying symptoms include the following:

• Stiff neck
• Severe headache
• Skin rash
• Increased sensitivity to bright light
• Mental confusion
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Seizures

Our team should evaluate adults and children if their fevers coincide with any of the above-mentioned symptoms.

Extra caution for children and babies with fevers

In children, fevers accompanied by vomiting, irritability, and headaches warrant medical attention, and infants with a temperature of 100.4° F or higher should be seen by our team.

Considering the potential risks of untreated high fevers, especially in children, it is advisable to exercise caution with sudden or persistent fevers.

Treatment options for fevers

While many people can manage low-grade fevers with fluids and over-the-counter fever reducers, those with high fevers should contact NewMed Immediate Care. 

Antibiotics may be necessary if your fever is due to a bacterial infection — such as strep throat or a UTI. Some viral infections, such as COVID-19 or the flu, can be treated with antiviral medication if diagnosed quickly. 

NewMed Immediate Care offers rapid COVID-19 antibody testing and results within 24 hours. 

Other viruses-induced fevers can be remedied with self-care, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, cool baths, fluid intake, and rest.

If your fever is high, accompanied by other concerning symptoms, doesn't respond to the medication, or lasts longer than three days, book an appointment with Dr. Thakkar. Call us at (847) 386-2523 or use the online booking tool.