Mild, moderate, ongoing, or recurring fever
Many viral illnesses, especially the flu, can cause fevers of 102°F (39°C)or higher for up to 48 hours.
If you do not have other symptoms, a fever of 102°F (39°C)or less that lasts 3 to 4 days is usually not a cause for concern.
Ongoing fevers
You may need to see a health professional to determine what is causing your fever in the following situations:
- Adults older than 60 may have an increased risk for a more serious problem if a fever higher than 100°F (37.8°C)does not go away after 2 full days of home treatment.
- A fever that occurs after an operation or other medical procedure may be caused by an infection.
- An ongoing fever that does not get better with home treatment may mean you have a more serious illness, such as a bacterial infection.
- A fever develops in anyone who has certain health risks.
- A fever without an obvious cause lasts longer than 4 full days.
- A fever without an obvious cause comes back more than once within 3 weeks.
- A recurrent or ongoing fever develops within 6 weeks of travel outside your country.
Recurrent fevers are those that occur 3 or more times within 6 months and are at least 7 days apart. If you have frequent or recurrent fevers, it may be a symptom of a more serious problem. Talk to your doctor about your fevers.
Remember, fever is only a symptom. Often the importance of a fever can only be determined when other symptoms are considered. A careful evaluation of your health may help you identify other symptoms that may be related to the fever.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: April 24, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine | |
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