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Definition
Fever is the temporary increase in the body's temperature, in response to some disease or illness.
A child has a fever when their temperature is at or above one of these levels:
- 100.4 °F (38 °C) measured in the bottom (rectally)
- 99.5 °F(37.5 °C) measured in their mouth (orally)
- 99 °F (37.2 °C) measured under their arm (axillary)
An adult probably has a fever when their temperature is above 99 - 99.5 °F (37.2 - 37.5 °C), depending on what time of the day it is.
See also:
Alternative Names
Elevated temperature; Hyperthermia; Pyrexia
Considerations
Normal body temperature may change during any given day. It is usually highest in the evening. Other factors that may affect body temperature are.
- In the second part of a woman's menstrual cycle, her temperature may go up by 1 degree or more.
- Physical activity, strong emotion, eating, heavy clothing, medications, high room temperature, and high humidity can all increase your body temperature.
Fever is an important part of the body's defense against infection. Many infants and children develop high fevers with minor viral illnesses. While a fever signals to us that a battle might be going on in the body, the fever is fighting for the person, not against.
Most bacteria and viruses that cause infections in people thrive best at 98.6°F. Many infants and children develop high fevers with minor viral illnesses. While a fever signals to us that a battle might be going on in the body, the fever is fighting FOR the person, not against.
Brain damage from a fever generally will not occur unless the fever is over 107.6 °F (42 °C). Untreated fevers caused by infection will seldom go over 105 °F unless the child is overdressed or trapped in a hot place.
Febrile seizures do occur in some children. However, most febrile seizures are over quickly, do not mean your child has epilepsy, and do not cause any permanent harm..
Unexplained fevers that continue for days or weeks are called fevers of undetermined origin (FUO).
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Reviewer Info: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Rachel A. Lewis, MD, FAAP, Columbia Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (2/27/2008).; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 04/17/2009 |
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