Getting sick is never fun, no matter what kind of illness you have or the symptoms you are experiencing! If you do fall ill, one common symptom you could have is a fever. Fevers can occur without any secondary effects, or they can make you feel really sick.

Even if you end up feeling miserable with your fever, most fevers are actually a good thing and are helping your body heal! If that seems confusing, read on as our AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte team explains the benefits of fevers below.

Are Fevers Common?

When you get sick, your body has to work hard to overcome whatever is causing your illness. For example, if you have an infection of some kind, your body needs to attack the infection in order for you to feel better! In order to do this, your body temperature may rise. This rise in temperature can make it harder for the infectious virus or bacteria in your body to replicate and grow. It can also encourage more white blood cells to rush to the site and start the healing process. Bodies are so cool!

A fever is diagnosed when your body temperature reaches 100.4 degrees or higher. If you start to feel sick because of your fever, you can certainly treat these symptoms! Just remember that while your fever may go away, your treatment of choice is only lowering your body temperature, not treating your infection.

Secondary Symptoms of a Fever

• Chills, shivering or shaking
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Sweating or flushed skin

What Is the Chance my Fever is Dangerous?

It is not very likely to experience a truly dangerous fever. Most fevers only appear while your body begins its immune response and then fade away once you start to turn a corner and feel better.

If your fever doesn’t go away after a few days or reaches 103 degrees or higher, a visit to a medical provider is necessary. A truly dangerous fever could start to impact the function of your organs and even cause brain damage. Remember, this is a rare occurrence, but keeping an eye on any symptom progression while you are sick is always an important part of taking care of yourself.

Warning Signs Accompanying a Fever

• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• High fever with a rash
• Seizures

Do you have a fever that just won’t break? Come see us at AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte.