Fever

A fever indicates an underlying health problem, like a viral or bacterial infection. Most fevers resolve with at-home treatment, but if your temperature reaches 103℉ or higher, it’s crucial to seek professional help. At Mercy Medical Urgent Care, urgent care specialist Bilal Khodr, MD, provides same-day diagnosis and treatment of fevers. To make an appointment for yourself or your child, call the office in Lake City, Florida, or book online today. Walk-ins are also welcome.

What is a fever?

If you have a fever, your body temperature is higher-than-normal. For adults, a fever occurs at 100.4℉. For children, a fever is 99.5℉ (or higher) measured orally.

A fever is your body’s way of fighting off infection. But if your temperature remains too high for an extended period, it can increase your risk of complications.

What are the symptoms of a fever?

The symptoms of a fever include:

• Higher-than-average body temperature (100.4℉ or higher)
• Chills, shivering, or shaking
• Body aches
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Intermittent sweating

As the fever worsens, you might also experience hot, red skin or a flushed complexion.

What causes a fever?

Fevers occur for various reasons, including:

• Cold and flu
• Ear infections
• Bronchitis
• Strep throat
• COVID-19
• Urinary tract infection

Sometimes, a fever doesn’t indicate any underlying health problem. Your body temperature fluctuates throughout the day and varies depending on your stress levels and emotions. If you have a fever and feel healthy, you’re probably okay.

When should I visit an urgent care for a fever?

Visit Mercy Medical Urgent Care if you develop a fever, which occurs alongside other symptoms, like a stiff neck, confusion, or irritability. That’s especially true if the fever lasts for longer than two days, is accompanied by a rash, or makes you dehydrated.

How is a fever diagnosed?

To diagnose a fever, your Mercy Medical Urgent Care provider reviews your health history, asks about your symptoms, and performs a physical exam. They also order lab work, including blood tests and a urinalysis to determine if you have a virus or a bacterial infection.

After pinpointing the cause of your fever, your Mercy Medical Urgent Care provider makes treatment recommendations.

How is a fever treated?

Treatment of a fever depends on various factors, including your age, the intensity of your symptoms, and the underlying cause. Your Mercy Medical Urgent Care provider might recommend:

• Getting plenty of rest
• Drinking lots of fluids
• Taking over-the-counter pain medicine
• Prescription antiviral medication
• Prescription antibiotics

The goal of treatment is to bring your temperature back down and provide lasting relief.

To receive treatment for a fever, make an appointment at Mercy Medical Urgent Care by calling the office, booking online, or walking in today.