infection with fever

Overview

An infection happens when germs like viruses or bacteria enter the body and make you sick. Fever is a high body temperature. It is often a sign that your immune system is fighting off the infection.

Yes. Infection with fever is very common. Most people experience it several times a year, especially children.

It can affect anyone at any age. Children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are more at risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Temperature above your normal level
• Chills and shivering
• Sweating
• Headache
• Muscle aches and pains
• Feeling very tired
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms in children

• Being more fussy or sleepy than usual
• Poor feeding or drinking less
• Ear pain or pulling at ears
• Rash on the skin
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Signs of dehydration: fewer wet nappies, dry mouth, no tears when crying

Symptoms in older adults

• The fever may be lower or even absent, even with a serious infection
• Confusion or sudden changes in behavior
• Feeling weak or unsteady
• Dizziness or falling
• Not wanting to eat or drink

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections, like the common cold, flu, or COVID-19
• Bacterial infections, like strep throat, urinary tract infections, or pneumonia
• Fungal or parasitical infections in some cases

Risk factors

• Being a young child or an older adult
• Having a weakened immune system due to illness or medicine
• Living with a chronic condition like diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease
• Taking certain medicines that lower the immune system
• Having recent surgery or a wound

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• See a doctor urgently if you have the urgent or emergency symptoms listed above.
• If you are an older adult and have a fever with confusion, weakness, or shortness of breath, seek same-day care.
• If your child has a fever and is very drowsy, refuses to drink, or has a rash, contact a doctor immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a fever that lasts more than 3 days
• If you have a fever with no other symptoms and you feel unwell
• If you are worried or unsure about your symptoms

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, check your temperature, and do a physical exam. They will look for signs of infection and may order tests to find the cause.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for infection and inflammation
• Urine test to check for a urinary tract infection
• Throat swab to test for bacteria like strep
• Chest X-ray if there is a cough or trouble breathing

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor may ask you to undress to your underwear for an exam. They may listen to your chest, feel your stomach, and look in your throat, ears, and nose. Tests are usually painless or cause only slight discomfort.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of the infection. Many infections are caused by viruses and do not need special medicine. Your body will heal on its own with rest and fluids. If a bacteria is the cause, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. Always follow the doctor's advice and finish the full course.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of fluids like water, clear soup, or herbal tea
• Rest as much as possible
• Wear light clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature
• Use a cool, damp cloth on your forehead for comfort
• Avoid heavy or spicy foods, and eat light foods if you feel hungry
• Monitor your temperature if you are concerned, but don't take temperature too often

Medical treatments

Your doctor will decide if you need treatment. For bacterial infections, antibiotics may be given. For some viral infections, antiviral medicines may be used. These are only prescribed by a doctor. Never take someone else's medicine. For fever itself, your doctor may recommend a medicine that lowers fever, but you should always ask before giving or taking any medicine.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for an infection. It may be necessary if there is a pocket of pus (abscess) that needs to be drained, or if an infected tissue needs to be removed.

Living with this condition

While you have a fever, focus on resting and drinking fluids. Monitor your symptoms and watch for warning signs. Most people recover within a week.

Lifestyle tips

• Get enough sleep at night
• Keep your hands clean to avoid spreading germs
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol as they can slow recovery
• Try to keep stress low while you are ill

Diet and exercise

Eat light, nutritious foods when you feel like it. Do not force yourself to eat. You can return to normal activity gradually as your fever goes and your energy returns. Start with gentle activities like short walks.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being ill can feel isolating and frustrating. It is normal to feel down. Remember that fever and infection are temporary. Reaching out to friends or family by phone can help you feel connected.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of infection by washing your hands often, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, staying away from people who are sick, and keeping wounds clean.

Vaccines

Vaccines can protect against many infections that cause fever, such as flu, COVID-19, and some bacterial infections. Talk to your local health service about recommended vaccines.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for fever or infection. If you have repeated infections, your doctor may check your immune system.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration from not drinking enough fluids
• Sepsis, a serious condition where the body's immune response damages its own organs
• The infection can spread to other parts of the body, like the lungs, blood, or brain

Long-term outlook

Most people recover fully from an infection with fever within one to two weeks. Even serious infections can be treated successfully if medical care is sought early. The outlook is very good with proper care and self-care.

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