When to Go to Urgent Care for a Fever

Fevers, often a sign of an underlying health issue or illness, can be unsettling for people of all ages. Knowing what to do if you have one is crucial for managing your well-being.

If you or a loved one are feeling under the weather, our experienced team at CareWell Urgent Care is here to help you navigate what to do if you have a fever.

Whether it's a mild temperature elevation or a more concerning spike, understanding the steps to manage your illness and how to reduce fever can make all the difference in your healing.

Managing Your Wellness: What to Do for a Fever

When you have a fever, it's essential to know what to do to manage it effectively.

 Here are some steps to consider:

• Monitor Your Temperature
  Begin by measuring your body temperature with a thermometer. A normal body temperature typically ranges between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C). A fever is generally defined as a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C).
• Stay Hydrated
  Dehydration can make a fever worse. Drink fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths, to stay hydrated.
• Rest
  Give your body the rest it needs to fight the underlying infection or condition.
• Take Over-the-Counter Medications
  Over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help lower your fever and alleviate discomfort. Follow the recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
• Apply Cool Compresses
  A cool, damp washcloth applied to your forehead and body can relieve fever-related discomfort. Avoid using ice or very cold water, as extreme temperature changes can be harmful to your health.

If you suspect your fever is due to a contagious illness, like the flu or COVID-19, it's crucial to isolate yourself to prevent spreading the infection to others.

If your fever is persistent, extremely high, or accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent vomiting, seek immediate medical attention. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.

When to Go to Urgent Care for a Fever: By Age

Knowing when to go to urgent care for a fever varies by age. While adults often seek medical attention for high fevers or ones that last several days, infants and young children might require urgent care for lower-grade fevers due to their vulnerability to serious infections.

When to Take a Baby to Urgent Care for Fever

Infants with fevers should be taken to the emergency room promptly.

When to Take a Toddler to Urgent Care for Fever

Urgent care for a fever in toddlers is typically necessary if the temperature is 102°F (38.9°C) or higher. Additionally, urgent medical attention is recommended if a toddler experiences a fever for more than 2 to 3 days or if the fever is accompanied by irritability, discomfort, difficulty breathing, vomiting, or other concerning symptoms.

When to Take a Child to Urgent Care for a Fever

If you have an older child or teenager who has a fever and feels unwell, it might be necessary to visit us. If the fever lasts more than a couple of days or goes above 102°F (38.9°C), the child should seek professional medical attention.

Also, if your child shows signs of difficulty breathing, severe headache, chest pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms alongside the fever, it's essential to visit urgent care promptly.

When to Go to Urgent Care for Fever in Adults

If a fever rises above 103°F (39.4°C) or persists for more than a few days, adults should visit urgent care.

Additionally, seeking medical attention is crucial if it is accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe headache, chest pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms.

ER or Urgent Care for a Fever: Here’s What to Know

Deciding whether to go to the emergency room (ER) or urgent care for a fever can be confusing.

Here's a breakdown to help you determine the best course of action:

When to Go to Urgent Care

• Fever of 102°F or higher: For adults, a fever above 102°F is generally considered high and warrants medical attention.
• Fever with other symptoms: If your fever is accompanied by severe headache, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a rash, it's best to seek urgent care.
• Fever lasting several days: A prolonged fever without improvement can indicate an underlying infection.

When to Go to the Emergency Room

• Fever in infants under 3 months: Any fever in an infant this young is considered a medical emergency.
• High fever with severe symptoms: If you have a fever accompanied by confusion, seizures, difficulty breathing, or severe pain, go to the ER immediately.
• Weakened immune system: People with compromised immune systems should seek immediate medical attention for any fever.

If you're unsure whether to see a healthcare provider for a fever or other symptoms, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional. Urgent care can be a good option for evaluating and treating fevers, especially if you have additional symptoms or concerns.

Visit CareWell Urgent Care for Fever Treatment Near You

At CareWell Urgent Care, your health matters to us.

We treat a variety of different ailments and conditions. Learn more about urgent care treatments and the symptoms that we can help with.

Our doors are open seven days a week, catering to individuals of all ages—from children to seniors.

If you have a fever, our numerous locations across Massachusetts and Rhode Island are here to provide the urgent care services you require, conveniently close to home.

Find your nearest CareWell location and get the treatment for your fever or any other health concerns today.