Fever – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors call it persistent unexplained fever when a person has a high temperature for more than three weeks and the cause is unclear. Infections like tuberculosis, endocarditis, or HIV, as well as inflammatory diseases or tumors, can cause this.
Doctors may order diagnostic tests such as a complete blood count, urinalysis, blood cultures, and imaging like chest X-ray or ultrasound. They may also use serologic testing and newer markers like procalcitonin or C-reactive protein to help find the source.
Table: Common Diagnostic Steps for Fever
| Test/Procedure | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Physical Exam | Check for obvious infections |
| Complete Blood Count | Look for infection/inflammation |
| Blood/Urine Cultures | Check for bacterial infection |
| Chest X-ray | Identify pneumonia or TB |
| Lumbar Puncture | Rule out meningitis |
| Serologic/Procalcitonin Tests | Detect specific causes |
Treatment
Nonprescription Medicines
If a fever goes above 102ยฐF (38.9ยฐC), medicines like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can lower temperature and ease discomfort. These drugs are called antipyretics.
Always use the recommended dose on the package, because too much acetaminophen or ibuprofen can harm the liver or kidneys.
Do not give aspirin to children because it can cause Reye’s syndrome, a serious condition. Some people, such as pregnant women, those with liver problems, or people with allergies, should avoid certain medicines.
| Medication | Warnings |
|---|---|
| Acetaminophen | Liver damage in high doses |
| Ibuprofen | Kidney risk, stomach upset |
| Naproxen | Stomach upset, kidney issues |
| Aspirin | Not for children or teens |
Doctor-Prescribed Medicines
Doctors may prescribe antibiotics if they believe bacteria are causing the fever. Certain oral antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections but do not help with viral illnesses.
Doctors decide which prescription medicines to use based on test results or how the patient improves. People should never take antibiotics without a prescription.
Care for Young Infants
Babies under two months need special care if they have a fever. Healthcare professionals often recommend hospital care for tests and treatments, which may include fluids and antibiotics through an IV.
Doctors watch infants closely because young babies can get sick quickly.
Ways to Care for Yourself
Drink plenty of fluids when you have a fever. Water, clear soups, or broths help replace fluids lost from sweating.
Babies under six months should have only breast milk or formula. Rest helps your body heal. Too much activity can raise your temperature.
Wear light clothes, keep the room cool, and use a thin sheet when resting. Use a digital thermometer to check temperature, as it is safer than a mercury thermometer.
Watch for signs of seizures or dehydration, especially in children with high fevers.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps to Take Before Your Appointment
Check for any special instructions. Ask the healthcare office if you need to follow any rules or stop certain foods or medicines before coming in.
Keep a symptom diary. Write down when the fever started, how high it has been, and where you measured it (mouth, armpit, or rectum). Note any other symptoms such as abdominal pain, cough, or fatigue.
List possible contact with illness. Record if you or your child has been near anyone who is sick, or if anyone in your house has felt unwell.
Add recent travel and history. Write down any trips, especially outside the country, and if anyone with you showed signs of illness.
Track medications and supplements. Bring a list of everything taken, including vitamins, over-the-counter products, and herbal remedies.
Prepare questions. List anything you want to ask, such as possible causes, need for lab tests, how to treat the fever, or if any restrictions are needed at home or school.
Sample Table for Tracking Information:
| Information to Record | Examples |
|---|---|
| Fever Start Date | April 20, 2025 |
| Measurement Method | Oral thermometer |
| Temperature | 101.5ยฐF |
| Other Symptoms | Abdominal pain, sore throat |
| Recent Travel | No, stayed locally |
| Sick Contacts | Sibling had cold symptoms earlier this week |
| Medications/Supplements | Acetaminophen, daily multivitamin |
Common Questions to Ask:
- What is causing the fever?
- Are tests or a physical examination required?
- Should the fever be treated with medicine?
- Are daily activities or diet limited right now?
Add other concerns as they come to mind during the visit.
Questions Your Provider May Ask You
- When did symptoms begin?
- How did you measure the temperature, and how high did it get?
- Did you have any exposure to illness, recent travel, or surgery?
- What other symptoms do you have, and how serious are they? For example, do you have abdominal pain or trouble breathing?
- Do you have any pre-existing health issues?
- What medicines and supplements do you use regularly?
- Has anything made the fever or symptoms better or worse?
- Do you or your family have a history of similar episodes?
Your care provider will also examine you and review your history to decide on the next steps. Be thorough and honest so Healthnile care providers can guide you well.
