When is a Fever too High?
December 20, 2017Every adult can tell you that having a fever makes you feel miserable. Every
parent can tell you that when their child has a fever, nothing makes them
feel more helpless. Fevers are a necessary, and often misunderstood, part of
many illnesses. However, it’s important to know when a fever is helpful, and
when it requires medical attention.
A fever is the body’s natural defense against infection. Infections such as
cold, flu, and gastroenteritis are the most common causes for fever,
although some causes for fever are not associated with infection.
A small area of the brain, known as the hypothalamus, acts as the body’s
thermostat. When something isn’t right in the body, the hypothalamus
reacts by causing us to shiver, resulting in the chills we often feel when we
have a fever. This shivering raises the body’s temperature, and a fever
occurs. Our normal body temperature runs around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit
– any temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit is considered a fever.
Depending on the reason for the fever, other signs to watch for include:
• Sweating
• Body Aches
• Irritability
• General weakness
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
When to Seek Medical Treatment
It can be difficult to know when a fever is helpful in fighting an illness, and
when to seek treatment. Factors such as age, overall health, and the
underlying cause of the fever should all be considered. A child or adult with a
low-grade fever (under 102 F) who is responsive and drinking fluids does not
usually require medical attention. However, some general guidelines do exist
as to when it is necessary to see a medical professional:
• The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you seek
medical treatment if a child under 3 months of age has a rectal
temperature of 100.4 F or higher
• Any child with a fever of 104 F or higher should be evaluated by a
medical professional
• Seek medical attention if a child less than 2 years old has a fever for
more than 1 day
• Any child older than 2 years old with a fever lasting more than 3 days
should see a medical professional
• If a child’s fever is accompanied by any of the following, it is best to
seek medical advice
o Listlessness, irritability, or failure to make eye contact
o Repeated vomiting
o Severe headache or stomachache
o Appearance of being very sick
o Has had a seizure
o Displays other symptoms such as an earache, stiff neck, rash, or
sore throat
• Adults with a fever higher than 103 F should be evaluated
• If an adult’s fever is accompanied by any of the following, it is time to
seek medical attention
o A rash that seems to spread quickly
o Frequent vomiting
o Severe headache
o A feeling of confusion or being “in a fog”
o A stiff neck associated with pain when the head is bent forward
o A sensitivity to bright light that is out of the ordinary
o Seizures, convulsions, or difficulty breathing
o Severe abdominal pain or pain with urination
Treatment of Fever
A fever that does not require immediate medical attention can be managed
at home. The most common treatment for fever is over-the counter
medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. It is important to use
these medications as directed by the labels. Too much of either medication
can cause liver or kidney damage, and an overdose can be fatal. If high
fever persists after the medications have been given, seek medical attention.
If you or your child has a fever that requires medical advice, Quick Care Med
is here to help. We’re open late and on weekends, because we know fevers
don’t follow a schedule. Visit www.quickcaremed.com for hours of operation
and to find a location near you.
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The entire staff was very caring. I had my toddler with me and she was a bit rowdy and they gave her crayons with coloring pages and stickers and even a lollipop to help keep her occupied.
My son scribbled on a piece of paper and handed it to one of the woman in the front, saying that is say how his ears hurt, she accepted it and posted it on the artwork wall, when the PA came in to see him he was made to feel like a big deal because he had known about the paper. This is a place where the staff really cares about their patients and go the extra mile for them
Have been there a few times and hey have always been very fast, kind, courteous and welcoming. Always very helpful especially the front desk. The employee Heather helped me with pharmacy, paperwork and everything I needed help with. Only quick care I go too because of her.
I absolutely love our nurse Tiffany. She made our visit so comfortable. I had two very sick little boys who did not want to go to the Dr. She made the at ease in an instant and she took such great care of them. This was at the Quick care on 441 in Ocala Fl. I'll go back to this one because of her. And recommended to all my friends and family. Thanks so much!
A Big THANK YOU, to the Staff at Quick Care Med, in Dunnellon!! My Husband was seen, for a couple different ailments, during his visit,, and the Two Practitioners who worked with Him, were AWESOME! They treated my Big, 200 pound, 6 ft. "Baby",, with Respect, Dignity, and Professionalism, and just the right amount of Calming Firmness!! Lol... he's afraid of Needles, and Doctor Offices, in general and I must say, that GWEN, & DEBBIE, were very good to him! Prices for services rendered, were ve
Great sweet people
I was there yesterday and I've never felt so shocked. The 3 girls I interacted with were the most pleasant and friendly caregivers I've ever dealt with. Idr the rep's name, but she was quick and prompt at taking all my info and with minimal Qs (kinda hard to answer when I have a cold), then Alexis took over. Very sympathetic, nice, and helpful. Then the physician saw me and was charismatic and very funny. Trying to keep me in good spirits. It was like all 3 were happy to be at their posts and to
Anytime, we've ever been there, all of the physicians are very caring and helpful, they don't rush or make you feel unimportant... I wish we could have them as our GP
Very friendly,professional. Very caring of patients.Victoria was excellent. Took time to listen and made you feel comfortable.
We had Zaib Kahn as the provider and NEVER have I seen such a good bedside manner, as they call it! AND he personally called this a.m. to ask how my husband is feeling! (The pharmacy was closed when we left the ofc., and they asked us to allow until 11 to pick up the RXs, but that's NOT YOUR fault ;D I'm thrilled w/ Mr. Kahn's service and may well use your clinic for ALL my medical needs!!!! THANK YOU
Professional staff, caring and organized. Prompt service for DOT related visits.
The absolute BEST! Everyone here is so nice! We've had to come in a few times & they've always taken great care of us. We're usually out within 20-30 min. All the girls up front are very nice & helpful (you don't find that too often), so is the girl that takes your vitals. Dr B is the amazing! He takes his time to listen to what's wrong & always has a big smile. If we could have this office as our primary care location we would
