Getting sick is possible during any time of the year, but it is more common in the fall and winter seasons. Believe it or not, those seasons are already approaching again!

There are always different conditions and illnesses circulating, and many of them can cause fevers if you contract them. But before you panic and run to your medicine cabinet, you should know that most fevers are actually helping your body.

Read on to learn more about fevers and their benefits from our AFC Urgent Care Statesville team.

Is Anything Above 98.6 Degrees Automatically a Fever?

Did you know that our bodies fluctuate in temperature throughout the day? Our temperatures can go up and down a few degrees depending on our surroundings and what we are doing. This is why an official fever is not diagnosed until the thermometer reaches 100.4 degrees or higher.

Fevers are a healthy immune response to an infection or other illness. An elevated body temperature inhibits the growth of viruses and bacteria while simultaneously supporting your immune system to let your body heal faster. If you have a temperature but otherwise feel fine, find a place to rest and let your body do the hard work for you. However you are always encouraged to take OTC fever-reducing medication if you are feeling miserable.

Illnesses That Can Produce Fevers

• Influenza
• Ear infections
• Chickenpox
• Respiratory infections
• Urinary tract infections

When Are Fevers Considered Dangerous?

Most fevers aren’t actually dangerous. While you may feel pretty sick for a few hours or a day, your body temperature will start to fall again when your body overcomes the infection. However, certain conditions can cause dangerously high or persistent fevers and that is when a doctor’s visit is recommended.

If your fever reaches 103 degrees or higher, won’t be treated with OTC medication or it lasts for three days or longer, come see us. Some conditions can start out with minimal symptoms but then progress into more serious situations, so a quick visit with us will ensure you are being cared for appropriately.

Symptoms of a Dangerous Fever

• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion
• A spreading rash
• Seizures
• Stiff neck

Fevers can be frustrating to deal with at home. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Statesville any day of the week.