A fever happens when your core body temperature rises above the average and can occur both independently and in conjunction with another infection or illness. You will be able to tell your precise temperature by checking it with a digital thermometer in your ear or under your tongue for the most accurate reading. Being able to tell what the cause of the fever is can be critical to determining whether or not you will need to see a doctor at urgent care for treatment.

Causes & Symptoms of Fever

A fever’s symptoms may vary based on the degree and cause. Most fevers include sweating due to the heightened bodily temperature, as well as aches and weakness. You may experience shivering and body chills as your temperature continues to rise, as well as symptoms of dehydration. You may also lose your desire to eat until the fever breaks. A fever can be caused by a number of factors, primarily a separate illness. A fever is often your body’s first sign of a problem and can be a symptom for illnesses including the common cold, influenza, food poisoning, infections, and autoimmune diseases. You may also experience mild fevers as a result of drug and vaccination side effects. Your temperature will be at or around 98.6°, with healthy ranging between 97.7°F and 99.5°F.

When Should I Visit Urgent Care with a Fever?

If you are experiencing side effects of a fever or your temperature has spiked to an especially high number, you should seek medical attention at your local urgent care center as soon as possible. Temperatures over 102° may require medicine in order to break and can lead to complications. If you have recently traveled to a faraway destination recently, your fever may be a result of a virus contracted during your trip such as malaria, changing the course of treatment your doctor will follow. If you begin to exhibit the following side effects of a fever, you should visit your local urgent care center immediately:

• Discomfort
• Ear pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Sore throat

Additional symptoms that can be treated at an urgent care include a fever that lasts more than two days or if your fever continues to worsen and will not break. If you begin to exhibit stiffness, light sensitivity, chest pain, and congestion and feel like you are in a daze or extreme confusion, you should visit an emergency room immediately.
If your fever has not broken on its own or has been going on for several days, visit AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove for treatment and diagnosis of further issues.