We need to remember that the baseline temperature of most people is approximately 37 degrees C or 98.6 degrees F. However, some people tend to have slightly lower or higher depending on numerous factors.

Remember that fluctuations tend to happen depending on the time during the day. However, it is quite normal, so you do not have to worry along the way. The idea is to find the proper thermometer that will allow you to get precise results.

If you wish to determine the temperature by using a temporal artery, ear, rectal, or oral, you will be able to register numbers higher than 100.4 degrees F. Click here and you will be able to learn more on how to fight this particular condition.

On the other hand, armpit or auxiliary thermometer will read approximately one degree lower, so if you have 37 degrees C or 99.4 degrees F, it means that you have a fever.

When it comes to checking out the temperature for babies and infants, most pediatricians tend to recommend a rectal thermometer. Of course, we recommend you to discuss with your doctor or pediatrician on which one you should use for your particular situation.

It is vital to let them know which one you have so that you can get the correct explanation on how to conduct everything properly.

When Should You Visit a Doctor?

Treating a fever depends on your age, which is the most crucial consideration. Remember that if you leave it untreated, it can lead to severe issues and complications in people with compromised immune systems such as older adults and children.

Toddlers and Infants

• Up to 3 Months Old –You should know that if your baby has a fever at least 100.4 degrees F, it means that you should see a doctor even when you cannot determine the other symptoms along the way.
• Between 3 and 6 Months Old – You will be able to break the fever unless the number goes to 102 degrees F. Of course, if your baby has a fever in combination with other symptoms, you should visit your pediatrician immediately.
• Between 6 Months and 2 Years Old – Children can have temperature from time to time because their immune system is still weak. Of course, if the number reaches 102 degrees, you should talk with your doctor and give it OTC meds that will break everything down. You need to let know your doctor if the fever lasts longer than one day with meds to change the routine.

Children and Adolescents

• Between 2 and 17 Years Old – Generally, you do not have to give them OTC medications unless the fever reaches the high point such as 102 degrees F. Similarly as with younger children, you should implement proper meds in case they experience symptoms such as muscle aches or irritability. If the condition goes over 102 degrees, you need to use meds to bring it down as soon as possible. Remember that high temperatures can lead to severe discomfort, which is why you need to be next to your beloved ones during this time.

Adults

• Over 18 Years Old – Generally, for mild temperatures and fevers, you do not have to use meds at all. Everything will pass in a matter of days. However, you should continuously monitor the situation, and if the number reaches 103 degrees F, it means that you should call a doctor to use the proper treatment that will help you. The typical adult symptoms include severe body ache, stiff neck, shortness of breath, as well as other issues that require immediate attention.
• Over 65 Years Old – If the fever comes with shortness of breath as well as confusion, you should address it as soon as possible. It means that you are experiencing symptoms that require medical attention, and you do not want to wait too long. Consult the doctor, and you will be able to start using meds to try to bring the fever down in the next two days. If the problem persists, you can begin using OTC meds, but try to avoid combining it with the medication that you are currently using.

Learn more about OTC drugs on this site: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/types-applications/drug-applications-over-counter-otc-drugs.

Things to Do When You Have a Fever

Having this particular problem is occasionally nothing you should worry about. It is vital to understand the various treatments that will help you along the way, which is why we created a guideline for each age period.

• Lie Down and Rest – The first thing you need to do is to lie down and rest so that you can prevent further issues. Remember that drinking water and tea will help you stay hydrated so that you can improve your immune system to fight the perpetrator. You can also use over-the-counter meds such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen that will help you reduce the fever. Of course, check out the right dosage and do not combine them but choose which one is the best for you and take it based on the instructions. Avoid using aspirin if you are already drinking clogging medicines. At the same time, children and infants should not use aspirin without prior consultation. It is vital to avoid giving ibuprofen to infants.
• Take Baths – You can use lukewarm baths to improve the overall comfort and convenience. Understand that this particular process requires specific treatment, which means that you should avoid ice cube baths, cold baths, and alcohol baths because they can be severely dangerous.

Having a fever means your body is fighting against a particular infection caused by bacteria or viruses. It can also happen due to immunizations or sunburn. Do not worry because anyone can have it, but if you suffer from a compromised immune system, you should talk with the doctor.

Fevers come with particular symptoms that are different from person to person. Therefore, it depends on your comfort levels and other factors so that you can understand how to assess this situation.

You should check out Athena-Security company’s official website to understand everything about coronavirus symptoms.

If you have a rash in combination with fever, it is the sign of a complicated issue that you have to check out in the medical facility. The doctor will determine the reasons why it happened, which will help you address the problem and prevent it in the future.