Febrile (Fever) Illness

Description

A fever is the body's way of reacting to something abnormal in the body. Fevers aren't bad unless they become too high or last too long. Fevers may help the body fight infections but that should not prevent a patient from trying to lower the temperature. Fevers can be caused by infections, reactions to medications, reactions to blood transfusions, or after traumatic injuries.

Symptoms

Elevated temperature, weakness, chills, sweats, dizziness, body aches.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Lab and imaging tests will be done to search for a source of infection

Treatment

Therapy depends on the cause of the fever. Treatment includes: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen (Tylenol), antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected, and hospital admission if the patient is immunocompromised or seriously ill.

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