Health Topics for Symptoms

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Fever And Chills

The temperature of the body is controlled by a section of the brain that acts like a "thermostat." Fever results when the body's thermostat is reset higher. Body temperature can "reset" for any number of reasons. Fever is not an illness. It is a sign that the body is fighting infection. Fever is a helpful response to infection.

If the temperature is set higher, the body feels cold and may send out a signal to the muscles. The muscles begin to shake repeatedly. This involuntary shaking, or chills, makes body heat that helps produce fever. Chills can be constant for up to one hour, or they can come and go.

Oral thermometer readings for fever are:

• LOW: 99 to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (or 37.2 to 38 degrees Centigrade)

• MODERATE: 100.5 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (or 38 to 40 degrees Centigrade)

• HIGH: above 104 degrees Fahrenheit (or above 40 degrees Centigrade)

Keep a temperature log when you have a fever. Record answers to these questions:

• When did the fever begin?

• What was the highest reading?

• Is it constant, or did it go away and come back?

• Is the person feeling tired, any pain, or chills?

• Does the fever respond to medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen?

• Has the person recently been sick or injured?

• Is the person taking any drugs?

• Has the person recently had medical tests or surgery?

Seek medical care if fever is accompanied by any other major symptoms, such as:

• confusion or other unusual behavior or thinking

• a stiff neck

• trouble breathing

• no production of urine

• forceful vomiting

• complaints of moderate to severe pain or

• redness, pain, or other sign of infection on the body

Fever can usually be controlled by acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin. NEVER GIVE ASPIRIN TO A CHILD UNDER 18 YEARS. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be given instead. Check with your pharmacist or the drug label for the correct dose.

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