When to Seek Medical Care as an Adult with a Fever

A fever can be uncomfortable, but it’s not always a bad thing. In fact, a fever is often a sign that your immune system is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do — responding to an infection or other illness. Most fevers resolve on their own as the underlying problem improves.

The challenge is knowing when a fever is simply part of a routine illness and when it’s a sign that you should seek medical care.

At Michigan Avenue Primary Care in The Loop in Chicago, Illinois, we help you evaluate symptoms, identify underlying causes, and determine whether you need treatment. While you can safely manage many fevers at home, some require prompt medical attention.

What causes a fever?

A fever occurs when your body’s internal thermostat raises your temperature above its normal range.

Most fevers are caused by common illnesses and infections, including:

• Colds
• Influenza
• COVID-19
• Sinus infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Pneumonia
• Gastrointestinal infections

However, infections aren’t the only cause. Fever can also occur in response to inflammatory conditions, certain medications, heat-related illnesses, autoimmune diseases, and, less commonly, more serious underlying medical conditions.

In other words, a fever is a symptom, not a diagnosis.

What temperature counts as a fever?

Most healthcare providers consider a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher to be a fever. That said, the number on the thermometer isn’t the only thing that matters.

Two people can have the same temperature and feel very different. That’s why we look at the whole picture, including how long your fever has lasted, your other symptoms, your medical history, and how sick you feel overall.

When can you monitor a fever at home?

Many adults can safely monitor a mild fever at home for a short period. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter fever-reducing medications may help improve comfort while your body recovers.

In general, a short-lived fever associated with a cold, mild flu-like illness, or another self-limited infection may not require immediate medical attention. The keyword is “short-lived.”

If symptoms are improving and you’re otherwise healthy, watchful waiting is often reasonable.

When should you call a doctor?

A fever deserves medical attention when it persists, worsens, or occurs alongside concerning symptoms.

You should contact us if:

• Your fever lasts more than a few days
• Your temperature reaches 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
• Your symptoms are getting worse instead of better
• You have a chronic medical condition that increases your risk of complications
• You’re immunocompromised due to illness or medication

You should also seek evaluation if a fever is accompanied by symptoms that suggest a more serious illness.

When is a fever an emergency?

Certain symptoms warrant immediate medical care.

Seek urgent medical attention if a fever occurs along with:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Severe headache
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Persistent vomiting
• Severe dehydration
• Seizures
• Stiff neck
• New weakness or neurological symptoms

These symptoms may indicate a more serious infection or medical condition that requires prompt evaluation.

Why it’s important not to ignore persistent fevers

Most fevers merely indicate common infections that resolve with time and supportive care.

But occasionally, a persistent fever is your body’s way of alerting you to something that needs medical attention. Pneumonia, kidney infections, severe viral illnesses, autoimmune conditions, and other health concerns can all present with fever.

The sooner we identify the cause, the sooner appropriate treatment can begin. That’s especially important if you’re older, have underlying medical conditions, or aren’t recovering as expected.

How we can help

At Michigan Avenue Primary Care, we provide comprehensive primary care services for adults, including evaluation of acute illnesses, diagnostic testing, preventive care, and management of chronic conditions.

If you’re experiencing a fever and aren’t sure whether you should be concerned, we’re here to help. Sometimes, reassurance is all you need; other times, you need further evaluation.

If you have a persistent fever or concerning symptoms, call Michigan Avenue Primary Care to schedule an appointment or book online. We can help you determine what’s causing your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate next steps for recovery.