Fever is a universal symptom that both adults and children share, usually indicating that the body is struggling with an infection or other medical issue. A fever itself isn't an illness, but rather a reaction to a number of health issues. Knowing the most common causes of fever can inform proper treatment and show when a visit to the doctor is called for.
Infections: The Leading Cause
The most common etiology of fever in adults and children alike is infection. These may be:
- Viral Infections: These are the cause of most fevers, particularly in kids. Some examples are the common cold, influenza, COVID-19, and gastroenteritis. Viral infections tend to be self-limiting, getting better on their own with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter drugs for relief.
- Bacterial Infections: These are less frequent than viral infections but usually more severe and may necessitate antibiotics. Some of the common bacterial infections resulting in fever are strep throat, urinary tract infection (UTI), ear infections, pneumonia, and skin infections such as cellulitis.
- Other Infections: Sicker illness such as meningitis, sepsis, and appendicitis also feature with fever and need prompt medical intervention.
Immunizations
Fever in children—and sometimes adults—is possible after vaccination. It is typically mild and temporary, which means that the immune system is reacting to the vaccine as it should. Post-vaccine fevers are common following vaccines like MMR, DTaP, or flu vaccine.
Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are conditions resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, particularly compounded with dehydration. These conditions can lead to raised body temperature and need urgent cooling and hydration. Heatstroke, for instance, is a medical emergency and has the potential to be fatal.
Inflammatory and Autoimmune Disorders
Other conditions that result in fever because of systemic inflammation include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease. These are generally chronic illnesses with other symptoms such as joint discomfort, tiredness, or rash on the skin. Blood work and a specialist referral may be needed for diagnosis.
Medication Reactions
Some drugs have a side effect called "drug fever." This is when the body responds to a drug like a threat, causing a type of immune response. Some of the usual suspects include antibiotics, seizure drugs, and certain medications used to treat high blood pressure.
Cancer
In exceptional instances, fever can be a sign of cancer, mainly blood cancers such as leukemia or lymphoma. This normally comes with additional symptoms such as weight loss, night sweats, or tiredness, and necessitates extensive medical examination.
When to Seek Medical Care
A mild fever is usually treated at home, particularly if it disappears within a couple of days. However, you should visit a doctor if:
When to Seek Medical Care
- An infant less than 3 months old has a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C)
- Fever is above 104°F (40°C) regardless of age
- Fever is present for longer than three days
- Fever is accompanied by other symptoms such as confusion, rash, shortness of breath, or seizures
Fever is the body's natural defense process, but recurrent or extremely high fevers should not be disregarded. Prompt identification and treatment can avert complications and result in a quicker recovery.
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