Fever

Fever Care at 24/7 Heights Emergency Room in Houston, TX

Fever is a common medical condition characterized by an elevation in body temperature, often indicating an underlying infection or illness. At Heights Emergency Room in Houston, TX, we are committed to providing exceptional care and accurate information to help you manage and understand fevers effectively.

What is a Fever?

A fever is defined as a temporary increase in body temperature, usually due to an illness. A normal body temperature ranges from 97°F to 99°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C). A fever is typically considered present when body temperature rises above 100.4°F (38°C).

Common Causes of Fever

1. Infections:
   • Bacterial Infections: Conditions such as strep throat, urinary tract infections, and bacterial pneumonia.
   • Viral Infections: Common colds, influenza, COVID-19, and gastroenteritis.
2. Inflammatory Conditions:
   • Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease causing inflammation and fever.
   • Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
3. Heat Exhaustion:
   • Overexposure to high temperatures can cause fever and other symptoms of heat-related illness.
4. Medications:
   • Certain drugs, including antibiotics and vaccines, can induce fever as a side effect.
5. Other Causes:
   • Cancer: Certain cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma, can cause persistent fever.
   • Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus can lead to recurrent fevers.

Symptoms Accompanying Fever

• Sweating
• Chills and shivering
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Loss of appetite
• Irritability
• Dehydration
• General weakness

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most fevers resolve on their own, some require immediate medical attention. Visit Heights Emergency Room if you or a loved one experience:

• A fever above 104°F (40°C)
• Fever lasting more than three days
• Severe headache, rash, or sensitivity to light
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Seizures or confusion

Fever Treatments at Heights Emergency Room

1. Medical Evaluation:
   • Our experienced healthcare professionals will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the fever, including physical examination and diagnostic tests.
2. Hydration:
   • Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial. We provide intravenous (IV) fluids for severe cases of dehydration associated with high fever.
3. Medications:
   • Antipyretics: Medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are commonly used to reduce fever and alleviate discomfort.
   • Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is identified, appropriate antibiotic treatment will be administered.
4. Advanced Care:
   • For severe or complicated cases, our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to provide advanced medical care and monitoring.

Preventing Fever

• Vaccinations: Stay up-to-date with recommended vaccinations to prevent infectious diseases.
• Hygiene: Regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can reduce the risk of infections.
• Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can strengthen the immune system.

At Heights Emergency Room, located in the heart of Houston, TX, we prioritize your health and well-being. Understanding fever and knowing when to seek medical attention are crucial steps in managing this common condition. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of fever, don’t hesitate to visit our emergency room for prompt and professional care. Our team is here to provide the highest standard of medical attention, ensuring you receive the best possible treatment and support.