Experiencing a fever that comes and goes can be a confusing experience. While fevers typically indicate the body is fighting off an infection or illness, intermittent fevers– those that rise, fall, and recur over time– can result from various causes. This includes infections, chronic conditions, and immune responses. Understanding the reasons behind fluctuating fevers can help you determine when a professional medical evaluation is necessary.
For same-day illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek. Our medical team is available seven days a week to diagnose and treat your condition with no appointment necessary. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, simply pre-register below!
Common Causes of Intermittent Fevers
1. Infections
One of the most common causes of an intermittent fever is an infection, especially a viral one. Certain viruses can cause fever cycles where the body’s temperature rises, subsides, and then rises again. Bacterial infections can also cause similar patterns. Certain bacterial conditions may lead to periodic fevers, often accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue or body aches.
2. Chronic Illnesses
Chronic illnesses, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), may also cause intermittent fevers. Chronic illnesses that cause recurring fevers are often a result of the body’s immune response. Inflammation in the digestive tract can also cause temperature fluctuations. These chronic conditions can vary widely in their symptoms so it’s important to seek a professional evaluation.
3. Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis may cause recurring fevers as the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. This immune response can trigger inflammation, resulting in fevers that come and go– especially during flare-ups.
4. Environmental Factors
Occasionally, fluctuating body temperatures could be related to external factors like exposure to extreme weather or dehydration. Heat exposure, for instance, can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke– conditions that can cause feverish symptoms that come and go as the body attempts to regulate its temperature.
When To Seek Medical Attention
If your fever persists for several days, is higher than 103°F, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like a severe headache, shortness of breath, or chest pain, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious infection or condition that requires urgent evaluation and treatment. Urgent care centers can help assess the underlying cause of your intermittent fever. These facilities offer diagnostic testing, physical exams, and treatment options to help relieve symptoms and identify potential infections or other conditions. If your fever comes and goes and you’re unsure of the cause, visit an urgent care center for a quick and effective evaluation.
Get Walk-In Illness Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek
While fevers that come and go can be common with certain infections, persistent or ongoing recurrent fevers should not be ignored. By consulting with a healthcare provider, you can gain clarity on your symptoms and get the treatment you need. A fluctuating fever is your body’s way of signaling that something may be off, so listen to it and take action when necessary. At AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek, we provide same-day care for a wide range of non-life-threatening conditions. Appointments are never required– simply walk-in today! We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact our medical team directly at (303) 692-8000.
