Fever, Age 4 and Older
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Do you have a mild to moderate fever?
See significance of a fever if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Note:
- Be sure to try home treatment when you or your child has a fever. Sometimes home treatment is all that is needed to help lower a fever and help you or your child feel better.
Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Have you had an operation or a medical procedure within the past 2 weeks?
Yes Do you have diabetes?
Yes Do you have a medical condition or take a medicine that impairs your immune system?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Do you still have a fever of 103°F (39.4°C) to 104°F (40°C) after 12 hours of home treatment?
Yes Do you think you still have a moderate fever after 12 hours of home treatment, but you are unable to measure your temperature?
You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Do you have an ongoing fever of 102°F (39°C) to 103°F (39.4°C) after 24 hours of home treatment?
Yes Are you older than 60 with an ongoing fever over 100°F (37.8°C) after 24 hours of home treatment?
Yes Have you had an ongoing fever of 101°F (38°C) to 102°F (39°C) after 3 full days of home treatment?
Yes Have you had an ongoing fever of 100°F (37.8°C) to 101°F (38°C) after 4 full days of home treatment?
Yes Do you think you have a mild ongoing fever for more than 3 days but you are unable to measure your temperature?
You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Have you been sweating more than usual or having night sweats for longer than 1 week?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| 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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