Fevers

 

What Is a Fever?

A fever is when your body temperature rises above the normal range (about 98.6°F / 37°C). Usually:
100.4°F (38°C) or higher = fever
99–100°F (37.2–37.8°C) = low-grade fever
Instead of being “just sick,” fever is actually your body’s defense system in action.

🦠 Why Do We Get Fevers?

When germs (like viruses or bacteria) invade your body, your immune system sends out little messengers called pyrogens.
These pyrogens run to your brain’s “thermostat” (the hypothalamus) and raise your body's temperature.
Why? Because higher temperatures make it harder for germs to grow and help your immune cells work faster. Basically: a fever is your body’s way of fighting back.

⚠️ Common Causes of Fever

Infections (colds, flu, ear infections, strep throat) 🤒
Inflammation (autoimmune diseases, etc.)
Heat exhaustion or sunburn ☀️
Side effects from medicines or vaccines 💉
Very rarely, more serious illnesses

🩺 What Does a Fever Feel Like?

Chills (your body is raising its temp) ❄️
Sweating (cooling down once temp lowers) 💧
Headache and muscle aches
Tiredness, weakness, crankiness 😴
Sometimes loss of appetite

🧡 How Is Fever Treated?

Most fevers are harmless and go away on their own. But here’s what usually helps:
Rest & hydration 💧🛌
Light clothes and cool compresses
Fever-reducing meds (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen — if recommended)
Treating the cause (antibiotics only if it’s a bacterial infection!)

🚨 When to See a Doctor

If fever is 104°F (40°C) or higher
If it lasts more than 3 days
If you have trouble breathing, confusion, stiff neck, or seizures
If a baby under 3 months has a fever

🧾 Quick Recap

Fever = body’s thermostat turned up to fight germs
Caused by pyrogens triggering the hypothalamus
Usually helpful, but sometimes needs medical attention

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