1. Fever is Important
Fever is a protector that your body uses against invaders that cause infection, such as bacteria. Fever kills some of the bacteria and signals your body to start its immune system for even more potent protection. As an adult, you can stand a fever of 103 for a few days, and it may even help you fight the infection causing the fever.
2. Learn What is Normal
98.6 is your normal body temperature. However, some people normally run one degree higher or lower. You have a fever if your rectal temperature is 100 degrees or higher. Your oral temperature will usually be one degree lower. If you have a fever, you might sweat, shiver, experience a headache or muscle aches, feel weak or get dehydrated. High fevers of 103 to 106 sometimes cause hallucinations, convulsions and confusion.
3. Fever Warnings for Children
If your baby is younger than three months and has a rectal fever of 100.4, or is older than three months and has a fever of 102 or higher, call the doctor. If moving your baby causes crying or extreme irritability or if they are lethargic or unresponsive, it could signal meningitis, in which case it's crucial to see the doctor immediately. Older children can tolerate fevers and if their fever lasts less than three days and they're eating and responding to you, there is no need for a doctor. Take your child if he is irritable, vomits or complains of a headache or stomach ache. Children under five can get a seizure if they contract a fever that rises quickly, but normally there are no long lasting consequences.
4. Adult Fever Concerns
It is okay for an adult to have a fever for a few days. If your temperature is more than 103 or lasts for more than three days, see your doctor to be sure you don't have a serious infection. If you have a fever and a splitting headache, a swollen throat, a skin rash or if your eyes are sensitive to light or your neck is stiff, see your doctor. Visit your doctor also if you have confusion, vomiting, chest pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, pain when urinating or difficulty breathing.
5. Take Your Rectal Temperature
Taking a rectal temperatures is the best way to know if your infant's temperature is too high. Lay your baby on her tummy, put a bit of petroleum jelly on the bulb of the rectal thermometer, insert the tip about 1/2 to 1 inch and leave for 3 minutes.
