Fever in Adults: When to Worry?

Fever in adults can be a worrisome symptom depending on a range of factors such as the root cause, duration, and associated symptoms. While fever itself is an innate immune response to infections and other ailments, knowing when to seek medical attention is important for prompt treatment and management. 

Symptoms of fever in adults 

The symptoms of fever include: 

• Loss of appetite 
• Sweating 
• Headache 
• Aching muscle and joints 
• Chills and shivering 
• Fatigue 
• Weakness 
• Irritability 
• Dehydration 
• Dizziness 
• Chattering teeth 
• Flushed face  
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Rash 

Causes of fever in adults

Fever in adults can be caused by several factors, including: 

1. Infections: Bacterial infections such as bacterial infections like urinary tract infections, pneumonia, ear infections, or tonsillitis. Viral infections such as colds, flu, COVID-19, or other upper respiratory tract infections. Fungal infections and parasitic infections could also be potential causes. 
2. Inflammatory conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. 
3. Heat-related conditions: Heat exhaustion or heat stroke, usually in hot weather or after strenuous activity. 
4. Blood clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism  
5. Tropical Diseases: Malaria can cause recurring fever. 
6. Medications: Certain medications can cause fever as a side effect. 
7. Food poisoning: Food poisoning can also be a cause of fever. 
8. Other causes: Stress, trauma and some vaccines cause fever. 

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How do you know a fever is serious in adults?

Fever in adults is considered dangerous if it reaches 39.4°C or higher, lasts longer than three days, or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest discomfort, disorientation, severe headache, stiff neck, or frequent vomiting. Other warning signals include a fever among individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic medical issues, or if the fever climbs suddenly. Furthermore, if someone has recently travelled to a location with infectious illnesses or has been exposed to someone with a serious sickness, a fever may suggest a potentially severe infection. In these circumstances, obtaining medical aid immediately is critical in finding the underlying reason and receiving proper treatment.  

When to go to hospital with fever in Australia?

In Australia, you should consider going to the hospital or seeking immediate medical help if you have any of the following symptoms alongside a fever: 

1. High temperature: A fever lasting more than 39°C. 
2. Prolonged duration: If the fever lasts longer than three days. 
3. Severe symptoms: Severe symptoms include trouble breathing, chest discomfort, disorientation, severe headache, stiff neck, and recurrent vomiting. 
4. Underlying health issues: If you have a compromised immune system (because of HIV/AIDS, cancer, or diabetes) or chronic medical issues (e.g., heart disease, lung illness). 
5. Recent travel or exposure: If you have recently visited or returned from a place where infectious illnesses are prevalent, or if you have come into close contact with someone suffering from a serious illness. 

How high is a safe fever for adults?

A safe fever temperature for adults might vary slightly based on the individual and the technique of measurement. Generally:  

1. Oral Temperature: A fever is commonly defined as a temperature of 38°C or higher when measured orally.
2. Rectal Temperature: A fever is commonly defined as a temperature of 38.3°C or greater when measured rectally. 

It's crucial to remember that these are general guidelines, and tiny changes may occur based on the individual and the circumstances. Fever is often a sign that the body is battling an infection or sickness, and if you or someone you know has a fever, particularly if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it is best to get medical attention, especially if it persists or is extremely high.  

When to consult a doctor?

Consult a doctor if an adult's fever lasts more than three days and is followed by serious symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest discomfort, disorientation, and continuous vomiting. Furthermore, get medical attention if your temperature is high (above 39°C orally), you are pregnant, elderly, or have other major health issues. If the fever is caused by recent travel to an area with infectious illnesses or contact with someone with a contagious sickness, it is also recommended that you see a doctor immediately. Monitoring symptoms diligently and getting medical help promptly offers a correct diagnosis and treatment.   To discuss fever symptoms, speak to an Australian registered online doctor within 15 minutes without leaving your home. Book your telehealth appointment now. 

Is telehealth a good option for treating fever in adults?

Telehealth can be a beneficial choice for treating fever in adults. Through telehealth, healthcare professionals can evaluate symptoms, provide guidance on managing fever at home, suggest medications, and supervise the patient’s condition remotely. Telehealth facilitates immediate escalation in case of concerning symptoms, ensuring prompt access to proper medical care. However, for severe or prolonged fever, in-person evaluation is crucial to conducting physical examinations and tests. To sum it up, telehealth proves to be an effective tool in the initial assessment and treatment of fever, offering flexibility while ensuring patient safety and healthcare continuity.  Although fever in adults is usually a response to infections and other illnesses, recognising when to be concerned involves assessing the seriousness, the duration of the fever, accompanying symptoms, and individual health factors. When unsure, seeking advice from a healthcare provider ensures appropriate evaluation and treatment to prevent complications and promote recovery.