After Hours GP Advice to Manage A Fever

Fevers are characterised by body temperatures higher than 38ºc. While usually harmless, fevers often indicate the body is fighting an infection. Typically, mild fevers accompany a cold, while higher fevers come with a more serious type of infection. So, here the After Hours GP team provide advice to help you manage a fever.

The Causes of a Fever

The ideal body temperature is 37ºc, but this can depend on factors such as activity level, current weather conditions, and the age and gender of the individual. However, any temperature above 38ºc is considered a fever. This is often caused by the release of certain chemicals due to an immune system response. People can become susceptible to fevers as a side effect of chronic illness or certain drugs.

The increase in body temperature is actually a positive, as it indicates the body is fighting the infection. A higher body temperature makes it more difficult for viruses and bacteria to survive and spread throughout the body.

The fever may be accompanied by a feeling of thirst, lightheadedness, increased breathing, sweating, hot skin and shivering.

Managing Fevers

It is not possible to cure a fever, but you can seek relief from the discomfort of the symptoms.

It is essential to drink lots of fluids to replenish lost liquid and prevent dehydration, but you should also try to get plenty of rest. Over the counter medications such as paracetamol can help to reduce the fever and relieve accompanying pain related symptoms such as headaches. Try to keep your room at a comfortable temperature and avoid heavy quilts or blankets that have the potential to overheat you. If necessary, turn off your heating or open windows to maintain the optimum temperature. While you may wish to feel cooler, avoid taking cold baths or showers. Your skin will react to the temperature decrease by constricting your blood vessels. This will trap body heat and cause you to shiver, which will generate more heat.

Taking a Temperature

The easiest way to monitor temperature is by using a digital thermometer. Readings can be taken from the ear, mouth or armpit. A normal reading from an ear is usually more than 38ºc, while a normal reading from the mouth or armpit is 37ºc.

To take a reading, reset the thermometer and place the silver tip high in the armpit or under the tongue for two minutes. Your thermometer may beep to alert you that it has had sufficient time for a reading. You can also purchase specialised ear thermometers that can read the eardrum temperature. These can give a reading within just a few seconds, but it may not be the most accurate reading.

When to Call An After Hours GP?

If the fever doesn’t improve within three days or if there are unusual symptoms such as palpitations, vomiting or hallucinations, it is time to call an After Hours GP. If the fever has not improved despite home treatment, the GP will be able to provide an assessment and tailored treatment plan.

If you are in need of an After Hours GP, Perth residents should call us. The After Hours team is here to help and would be happy to address any of your concerns or queries.

If you would like further guidance to improve your health and wellbeing from an after hours GP, Perth residents should call us.