When to Go to Urgent Care for a Fever
Fevers, often a sign of an underlying health issue or illness, can be unsettling for people of all ages. Knowing what to do if you have one is crucial for managing your well-being.
If you or a loved one are feeling under the weather, our experienced team at CareWell Urgent Care is here to help you navigate what to do if you have a fever.
Whether it's a mild temperature elevation or a more concerning spike, understanding the steps to manage your illness and how to reduce fever can make all the difference in your healing.
Managing Your Wellness: What to Do for a Fever
When you have a fever, it's essential to know what to do to manage it effectively.
Here are some steps to consider:
- Monitor Your Temperature
Begin by measuring your body temperature with a thermometer. A normal body temperature typically ranges between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C). A fever is generally defined as a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). - Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can make a fever worse. Drink fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths, to stay hydrated. - Rest
Give your body the rest it needs to fight the underlying infection or condition. - Take Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help lower your fever and alleviate discomfort. Follow the recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns. - Apply Cool Compresses
A cool, damp washcloth to your forehead and body can relieve fever-related discomfort. Avoid using ice or very cold water. Extreme temperature changes can be harmful to your health.
If you suspect your fever is due to a contagious illness, like the flu or COVID-19, it's crucial to isolate yourself to prevent spreading the infection to others.
If your fever is persistent, extremely high, or accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent vomiting, seek immediate medical attention. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.
When to Go to Urgent Care for a Fever: By Age
Knowing when to go to urgent care for a fever varies by age. While adults often seek medical attention for high fevers or ones that last several days, infants and young children might require urgent care for lower-grade fevers due to their vulnerability to serious infections.
When to Take a Baby to Urgent Care for Fever
For babies, it's recommended to seek urgent care for a fever if they have a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. This is especially true for babies under three months or if the infant has other concerning symptoms such as irritability, difficulty feeding, or unusual lethargy.
When to Take a Toddler to Urgent Care for Fever
For toddlers, urgent care for a fever is typically necessary if the toddler's temperature is 102°F (38.9°C) or higher. Additionally, urgent medical attention is recommended if a toddler experiences any fever for more than 2 to 3 days or if their fever is accompanied by irritability, discomfort, difficulty breathing, vomiting, or other concerning symptoms.
When to Take an Older Child to Urgent Care for a Fever
If you have an older child or teenager who has a fever and feels unwell, it might be necessary to visit the doctor. If their fever lasts more than a couple of days or goes above 102°F (38.9°C), they should seek professional medical attention.
Also, if your child shows signs of difficulty breathing, severe headache, chest pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms alongside the fever, it's important to visit the doctor promptly.
When to Go to Urgent Care for Fever in Adults
Visiting urgent care for a fever is recommended for adults if the temperature rises above 103°F (39.4°C) or persists for more than a few days.
Additionally, seeking medical attention is crucial if it is accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe headache, chest pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms.
Visit CareWell Urgent Care for Fever Treatment Near You
At CareWell Urgent Care, your health matters to us.
Our doors are open seven days a week, catering to individuals of all ages—from children to seniors.
If you're dealing with a fever, our numerous locations across Massachusetts and Rhode Island are here to provide the urgent care services you require, conveniently close to home.
Find your nearest CareWell location and get the treatment for your fever or any other health concerns today.
