According to multiple sources, a fever in adults is generally considered to be present when the body temperature is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, when measured orally. However, its important to note that body temperature can vary from person to person and at different times of the day, so there is some variation in what is considered a fever. Its also worth noting that minor elevations in temperature between 98.6°F (37°C) and 99.9°F (37.7°C) are less likely to be a true indication of illness and are often within the range of normal variation. If your fever rises above 103°F (39.4°C), its recommended to call your healthcare provider for treatment. If you have a fever along with any of the following symptoms, its important to seek immediate medical attention as it may be a sign of a serious or life-threatening illness:
- Severe headache
- Rash
- Unusual sensitivity to bright light
- Stiff neck and pain when you bend your head forward
- Mental confusion, strange behavior or altered speech
- Persistent vomiting
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Abdominal pain
- Pain when urinating
- Convulsions or seizures