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Uncomplicated fever

Very low urgency
Very common-

Body temperature higher than 38 °C that doesn't entail any risk for the organism.

Generally, it is secondary to an infection, although there are non-infectious causes that increase body temperature.

Fever is the main symptom, but sometimes it goes along with chills, feeling thirsty and general malaise.

It is diagnosed by ruling out other fever related causes.

Treatment consists solely of antipyretic medication and promoting the loss of body heat with physical measures (removing the clothing, wet cloths, a fan, etc.).

Bibliographic references
  1. Reuven Porat, Charles A Dinarello. Pathophysiology and treatment of fever in adults. UpToDate. Jul 26, 2016.
  2. Dinarello CA. Infection, fever, and exogenous and endogenous pyrogens: some concepts have changed. J Endotoxin Res 2004; 10:201.
  3. ATKINS E. Pathogenesis of fever. Physiol Rev 1960; 40:580.
  4. Charles A. Dinarello, Reuven Porat. Fiebre. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 1. 19ª Edición. 123:125.
  5. J. García San Miguel, A. Pumarola. Enfermedad infecciosa. Fiebre. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen II. Duodécima edición. 2179:2180.
Author
Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Tachycardia

    Faster breathing rate

    Feeling generally unwell

    Red face

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever that doesn't subside with antipyretics (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
Abdominal pain that increases rapidly
Difficulty breathing
Neck stiffness
Mental confusion
Dehydration signs: more fatigued than usual, dizziness, dry mouth and tongue.
Rash
Joint pain or inflammation

Self-care

If there is fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC) take over-the-counter antipyretics.
Place cold cloths on forehead, armpits and groin to lower body temperature.
Maintain hydration of 2 litres per day.
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