Fever
A fever is a body temperature higher than the normal average of 98.6 °F (37 °C), typically signaling that the body is fighting an illness or infection.
Overview
A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. A normal temperature can vary from person to person, but it is usually around 98.6 °F (37 °C). A fever is not a disease; it is usually a sign that your body is trying to fight an illness or infection.
Causes
Infections cause most fevers. You get a fever because your body is trying to kill the virus or bacteria that caused the infection. Most of those bacteria and viruses do well when your body is at your normal temperature, but it is harder for them to survive if you have a fever. Fever also activates your body's immune system.
Other causes of fevers include:
- Medicines, including some antibiotics, blood pressure medicines, and anti-seizure medicines
- Heat illness
- Cancers
- Autoimmune diseases
- Some childhood vaccines
Treatment and Management
Treatment depends on the cause of your fever. If the fever is very high, your health care provider may recommend taking an over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Adults can also take aspirin, but children with fevers should not take aspirin. It is also important to drink enough liquids to prevent dehydration.