Fever, pyrexia and febrile response, is defined as having a temperature above the normal range due to an increase in the body's temperature set-point. There is not a single agreed-upon upper limit for normal temperature with sources using values between 99.5 and 100.9 °F. The increase in set-point triggers increased muscle contraction and causes a feeling of cold. This results in greater heat production and efforts to conserve heat. When the set-point temperature returns to normal a person feels hot, becomes flushed, and may begin to sweat. Rarely a fever may trigger a febrile seizure. This is more common in young children. Fevers do not typically go higher than 41 to 42 °C (105.8 to 107.6 °F).
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Anorexia
- Sleepiness
- Hyperalgesia
- Inability to concentrate.
To find the source of the fever different questions made:
· Patient History
· Immunization status
· Recent travel History
· Exposures to sick people at work or at home
· Any medications taken or illicit drug use
· Exposure to animals
· Sexual history
· Recent surgeries
· Any underlying medical illnesses
· Allergies
Diagnostics ordered by treating Physician include:
· Blood test to measure the white blood cell count
· Strep throat culture
· Sputum sample
· Blood culture
· Urine analysis
· Urine culture
· Stool sample
· Spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
· X-ray films or ct scan
· Liver function tests
· Thyroid function tests
Medications
Medications that lower fevers are called antipyretics e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen (paracetamol) etc.
Please consult your physician for suitable medication.
