What To Do When You Have a Fever

posted: Dec. 20, 2021.

Many people think that a fever is anything above a “normal” temperature of 98.6° (F), but temperatures can vary with 98.6 being more of an average temperature for humans. Medically, a fever is any temperature above 100.4°. Some fevers should be taken more seriously than others.

Understanding the cause of your fever and additional symptoms can determine whether you should visit an urgent care facility. PanCare Health and its team of doctors serve the Florida panhandle with a range of urgent care and healthcare services. Their expertise helps diagnose the seriousness of your fever and offers treatment options.

When to Seek Help for a Fever

A fever is often the body’s response to fighting infection. For mild fevers, you can make yourself more comfortable by drinking fluids, eating a light diet, and getting plenty of rest. Many over-the-counter medications can relieve a fever: ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen or aspirin can alleviate fever symptoms.

If these measures don’t provide some relief, it may be time to visit PanCare Health. For fevers of 104°, or lower grade fevers with additional, more serious symptoms, it is recommended that you seek medical care. Some concerning symptoms may include:

A stiff neck
Breathing trouble
Feeling disoriented
Severe pain, swelling, or inflammation
Loss of consciousness
Seizures

What to Tell Your Medical Care Professionals

When you visit urgent care, your medical care professional will ask questions to determine the possible cause of your fever. If you have recently had surgery, injuries, vaccinations, or traveled internationally., be prepared to give details about these topics. Let the Florida panhandle urgent care doctors treat you by sharing how you are feeling - even if you think it is unrelated to your fever.

Bring a list of medications you are taking – especially new prescriptions, with the name, dosage, and frequency of each drug. When in doubt, bring your most current prescription container with you to urgent care.

PanCare Health has medical, dental, and behavioral health services available in over a dozen cities. Services vary by location, so visit our website and contact us at the following offices throughout the Florida panhandle: