What constitutes a high fever?
A fever is considered “high” when it reaches above 103 degrees Fahrenheit. High fever might indicate a serious infection has triggered the immune system. Fevers are the immune systems attempt to kill the infection.
Symptoms of a high fever:
It’s common for the following to accompany a high fever:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Change in bowel habits
- Chills
- Aches
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Warmth in the body
- Excessive sweating
- Blisters or rash
- Shaking, seizure, or convulsion – This symptom can be common among children under the age of 5.
When should I see a doctor for a high fever?
You should seek medical care if you or someone you are with has a high fever that is accompanied by serious symptoms -like seizures, difficulty breathing, severe pain, stiff neck, trouble swallowing, confusion, dizziness, or headache. Or if the fever causes you concern or persists despite treatment.
High Fever in Children
For children, fever is considered high if it reaches 101 degrees Fahrenheit. Generally speaking, the younger the child, the quicker the response to a fever should be. Infants under 3 months, for example, should seek medical attention if the fever reaches 100.4 degrees of Fahrenheit. Children 3 months to 3 years should seek medical attention if the fever reaches 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
Oftentimes when children have a fever they aren’t fussy, or visibly uncomfortable. If your child is running a fever but continues to play normally, eat and drink consistently, is awake and aware of their surroundings, and there is no change in skin color or overall appearance, the fever is likely not serious and can run its course.
Serious fever symptoms in children include:
- Seizures
- Lethargy
- Irritability
- Too weak to speak and stand
- Trouble breathing
- Purple or blood-colored dots on the skin
- Trouble swallowing
- Shaking
- Constant crying
The staff was great. They were friendly and efficient with my care. I was in a lot of pain and they got my diagnosis and treatment plan done within an hour and a half. I was discharged within the next hour and able to go home. I appreciate their effort in making me feel better!
– Monica
