Fever Symptoms is a common symptom of many illnesses and can range in severity from mild to severe. It occurs when the body’s temperature rises above its normal range of 97-99 degrees Fahrenheit. While fever is usually not a cause for alarm, there are instances when you should seek medical attention. In this article, we will discuss when to see a doctor as an adult for fever symptoms, when you should be concerned, and what to do when it becomes scary and unimaginable.
When to see a doctor
In general, a fever is not a cause for concern, and it can be treated at home. However, there are certain circumstances when you should see a doctor. These include:
- High fever: If your temperature rises above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, you should seek medical attention immediately. High fever can be a sign of a serious illness, and it can lead to seizures, confusion, and other complications.
- Long-lasting fever: If your fever persists for more than three days, it is important to see a doctor. A prolonged fever can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires treatment.
- Difficulty breathing: If you experience difficulty breathing along with your fever, seek medical attention right away. This could be a sign of a serious respiratory illness, such as pneumonia.
- Severe headache: If you experience a severe headache along with your fever, it could be a sign of meningitis, which is a serious infection that requires prompt medical attention.
- Abdominal pain: If you experience severe abdominal pain along with your fever, it could be a sign of a serious condition such as appendicitis.
When to be concerned
In addition to the above situations, there are other circumstances when you should be concerned about your fever. These include:
- Age: If you are an older adult or have a weakened immune system, you may be more susceptible to serious illnesses that can be accompanied by fever. In these cases, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience a fever.
- Recent travel: If you have recently travelled to a foreign country or have been in contact with someone who has, you may be at risk for illnesses such as malaria or dengue fever. If you experience a fever after travelling, it is important to seek medical attention.
- Medications: Certain medications can cause fever as a side effect. If you are taking any medications and experience a fever, it is important to talk to your doctor.
What to do when it becomes scary and unimaginable
If your fever becomes scary and unimaginable, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. This could be a sign of a serious illness, and prompt treatment is essential.
In the meantime, there are some things you can do to help reduce your fever and alleviate your symptoms. These include:
- Rest: It is important to get plenty of rest when you have a fever. This will help your body fight off the infection and recover more quickly.
- Hydration: It is important to drink plenty of fluids when you have a fever. This will help prevent dehydration and keep your body hydrated.
- Medications: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help reduce fever and alleviate other symptoms such as headaches and body aches.
- Cool compresses: Placing cool compresses on your forehead and other areas of your body can help reduce fever and alleviate discomfort.
In conclusion, fever is a common symptom of many illnesses and can range in severity from mild to severe. While fever is usually not a cause for alarm, there are instances when you should seek medical attention. If your fever becomes scary and unimaginable, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. In the meantime, rest, hydration, medications, and cool compresses can help