As you may know, high fevers are a common sign that the body is valiantly fighting off an infection. Our inner thermostat ratchets up the heat to burn off whatever ails us. While they can be scary – particularly in children – they serve a purpose. At times, however, high fevers can also be a sign of more serious health issues.
While low-grade fevers can often be managed at home, knowing when to seek urgent care for high fever in adults is essential to avoid potential complications and ensure proper treatment.
What Is Considered a High Fever in Adults?
A fever is generally defined as a temporary increase in body temperature, typically above 100.4°F (38°C). High fever in adults is usually considered to be 103°F (39.4°C) or higher. While a fever itself isn’t usually dangerous, it can indicate an underlying issue that needs medical attention.
Possible Causes of a High Fever in Adults
High fevers can be triggered by a variety of infections or health conditions, including:
- Viral Infections: Fevers are a common response to viruses like the flu, COVID-19, or the common cold.
- Bacterial Infections: Serious bacterial infections like pneumonia, strep throat, or urinary tract infections can also cause high fever in adults.
- Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to dangerously high body temperatures. This condition is known as heatstroke.
- Inflammatory Conditions: Autoimmune disorders or inflammatory diseases can sometimes lead to elevated body temperature.
- Dehydration: Severe dehydration can contribute to high fevers, particularly if the body is unable to regulate its temperature properly.
Symptoms of a High Fever in Adults
High fevers often result in more than just an elevated temperature. Common symptoms accompanying a high fever in adults include:
- Sweating or Chills: Rapid shifts in body temperature may cause profuse sweating or shivering.
- Headache: A persistent or severe headache often accompanies high fevers.
- Muscle Aches: Body aches, particularly in the muscles and joints, are common when adults run high temperatures.
- Weakness or Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak may be a sign of a more serious infection.
- Dehydration: Dry mouth, dizziness, and reduced urination can occur with fever, especially if fluids are not replenished.
When You Should Visit Urgent Care for High Fever in Adults
While many fevers resolve on their own, some red flags surrounding fever suggest it’s time to head to the nearest urgent care:
- A Fever of 103°F (39.4°C) or Higher: A high fever of this magnitude can indicate a serious infection and should be evaluated promptly.
- Persistent Fever: If your fever lasts for more than three days or continues to rise, urgent care is recommended.
- Severe Headache or Stiff Neck: These can be signs of meningitis or other serious conditions.
- Confusion or Difficulty Breathing: These symptoms indicate the need for immediate medical attention.
- Unexplained Rash: A rash accompanying a fever can signal a serious viral infection like measles, mononucleosis, or the flu, or a bacterial illness like scarlet fever.
- Severe Dehydration: If you experience symptoms of dehydration such as extreme thirst, dry mouth, or dizziness, seek medical care.
How FirstCare Can Help with High Fever in Adults
The team at FirstCall Medical Center can quickly assess and treat high fever in adults. Here’s how our doctors can assist:
- Rapid Evaluation: Our providers will assess your symptoms to determine the underlying cause of your fever.
- Diagnostic Testing: Blood tests, X-rays, or other diagnostics may be performed to identify infections or conditions.
- Symptom Relief: We regularly provide medications to reduce fever and manage symptoms like headache or dehydration.
- Treatment for Underlying Causes: If your fever is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed to address the root cause.
If you have a high fever, especially one accompanied by the red flags mentioned above, visiting urgent care is a wise step.
At FirstCall Medical Center, we offer same-day treatments for patients who require immediate medical care, so you can get back to your busy life. Our practitioners will conduct a timely evaluation and help you address the cause of your fever. Swift treatment will ensure a smoother recovery and prevent complications.
Need to see a doctor? Stop by our walk-in urgent care clinics 7 days a week for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses.
