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Nov 10, 2020 · Causes of Fever in Elderly Individuals. Fevers without a known cause are relatively common among younger adults. But among seniors, fevers are more likely to indicate a serious viral or bacterial infection.
- What Is Considered A Fever in Adults?
- High Fever in Adults
- When to Worry About Fever
- Causes of Fever
- Accompanying Symptoms
- Diagnosing The Cause of A Fever
- How to Treat A Fever at Home
The average body temperature is 98.6° F (37°C). But "normal" body temperature varies from person to person. It also changes during the day, rising a bit after you eat or exercise. Body temperature is often higher in the afternoon than it is when you wake up in the morning. Fever means a body temperature of 100.4° F (38°C) or higher.
While any temperature above your normal temperature range is considered a fever, there are different levels of fever severity: 1. Low-grade:99.1 to 100.4 F (37.3 to 38.0 C) 2. Moderate-grade:100.6 to 102.2 F (38.1 to 39.0 C) 3. High-grade:102.4 to 105.8 F (39.1 to 41 C).
If you have a fever over 104°F (40°C), you should call your doctor. Seek medical help right away if you have a fever along with any of these symptoms: 1. seizure 2. loss of consciousness 3. confusion 4. stiff neck 5. trouble breathing 6. severe pain anywhere in the body 7. swelling or inflammation of any part of the body 8. vaginal discharge that i...
An infection, such as the flu, is the most common cause of fever. Other conditions can also cause a fever. These include diseases that produce inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis; reactions to drugs or vaccines; and even certain types of cancers.
The following symptoms may also accompany fever: 1. sweats 2. chills 3. headache 4. achy muscles 5. lack of desire to eat 6. rash 7. restlessness 8. weakness. A very high fever can cause confusion, extreme sleepiness, irritability, and seizures.
To help determine why you have a fever, your doctor will ask you about: 1. other symptoms such as coughing, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or pain when urinating 2. recent surgeries or injuries 3. recent vaccinations 4. new drugs you may be taking 5. recent travel, particularly travel abroad.
By itself, fever is usually harmless, though a high fever can be miserable. These steps may help you feel better: 1. Drink plenty of fluids to help cool your body and prevent dehydration. 2. Eat light foods that are easy to digest. 3. Get plenty of rest. 4. Take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or others), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, or others), or acetami...
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Dec 16, 2020 · To stay in the know about what causes fever in your age group and when to seek prompt medical attention, we’ve put together this guide—which highlights some surprising causes behind fevers in seniors.
Seek medical attention if a senior’s fever reaches 103 F (39.4 C) or higher. Get immediate medical help if the fever is accompanied by: Headache; Disorientation or confusion; Chest pain; Difficulty breathing; Convulsions or seizures; Vomiting; A sudden rash; For the most accurate reading of a senior’s temperature, use a digital in the mouth ...
Jul 1, 2000 · 01 July 2000. Article history. Cite. Permissions. Share. Abstract. Infections in the elderly, similar to other acute illnesses in this age group, may present in atypical, nonclassical fashions. Fever, the cardinal sign of infection, may be absent or blunted 20%–30% of the time.
- Dean C. Norman
- 2000
May 7, 2022 · A fever is a temporary rise in body temperature. 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.
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What causes a fever in the elderly?
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What causes low body temperature in elderly people? As we’ve said, it’s common for older people be cold when others are comfortable in a room. Why do the elderly feel cold more easily? There are several possible reasons: A slower metabolism. Less fat under the skin, especially in the hands and feet. Poor circulation. Dryer skin.
