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Isn’t an illness
- A fever itself isn’t an illness. Rather, it’s a symptom of a wide range of health conditions. When your body temperature rises a few degrees above normal, it can be a sign that your immune system has been activated, often to fight an infection. It can also be a side effect of some medications and vaccinations.
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever
A fever itself isn’t an illness. Rather, it’s a symptom of a wide range of health conditions. When your body temperature rises a few degrees above normal, it can be a sign that your immune system has been activated, often to fight an infection.
May 7, 2022 · It's one part of an overall response from the body's immune system. A fever is usually caused by an infection. For most children and adults, a fever may be uncomfortable. But it usually isn't a cause for concern. For infants, however, even a low fever may mean there's a serious infection.
Aug 21, 2024 · Fever is an elevation in the body's temperature. It's not a disease but rather a sign or response to something occurring within the body, most commonly an infection. Noninfectious conditions or scenarios like inflammatory diseases or medication reactions can also cause a fever.
- Colleen Doherty, MD
Overview. A fever is the body's normal and healthy reaction to infection and other illnesses, both minor and serious. It helps the body fight infection. A fever is a symptom, not a disease. In most cases, having a fever means that you have a minor illness. When you have a fever, your other symptoms will help you know how serious your illness is.
Jun 20, 2024 · A fever is when your body temperature is higher than usual, often due to an infection or illness. Doctors generally consider a fever to be an oral temperature of 100 F (37.8 C) or higher.
Nov 15, 2023 · Fever Symptoms. A fever is a sign of an illness or infection. When you have one, you may notice these symptoms: Chills or shivering; Sweating; Body aches; Headache; Lethargy (feeling...
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A fever does not tell you what is causing it, or even that a disease is present. It may be a bacterial or viral infection. Or, it could be a reaction from an allergy to food or medicine. Becoming overheated at play or in the sun can also result in fever.