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A fever is a common medical symptom that can be caused by a variety of conditions, most commonly infections. It's a natural defense mechanism of the body, but it can also be a sign of a serious illness. Understanding what a fever is, what causes it, how it's diagnosed and treated, and when to seek medical attention is important for maintaining health and wellbeing. <br/ > <br/ >#### What is a fever? <br/ >A fever, also known as pyrexia, is a temporary increase in body temperature, often due to an illness. It's a common symptom of many medical conditions, including infections like the flu, immunological diseases, certain medications, and even severe trauma or injury. Fevers can be beneficial, as they help the body fight off infections. However, a high fever can be dangerous, especially for small children and infants. Therefore, it's important to monitor and manage a fever properly. <br/ > <br/ >#### What causes a fever? <br/ >Fever is usually caused by an infection or other illness. When your body detects that it's being threatened by a virus, bacteria, or other pathogens, it responds by raising its temperature to create an environment that's less hospitable for these invaders. This is a natural defense mechanism. Other causes of fever can include certain medications, severe trauma or injury, and certain chronic conditions like arthritis or cancer. <br/ > <br/ >#### How is a fever diagnosed? <br/ >A fever is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms and medical history. The most common way to measure body temperature is by using a thermometer. Normal body temperature can vary depending on the person, the time of day, and the weather, but it's usually around 98.6°F (37°C). A fever is generally agreed to be a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. <br/ > <br/ >#### How is a fever treated? <br/ >The treatment for a fever depends on its cause. If it's caused by an infection, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help lower a fever and relieve any discomfort. It's also important to stay hydrated and rest. If a fever is very high or persistent, it's important to seek medical attention. <br/ > <br/ >#### When should you seek medical attention for a fever? <br/ >You should seek medical attention for a fever if it's 103°F (39.4°C) or higher, or if it lasts for more than a few days. In infants and young children, seek medical attention if a fever is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Also seek medical help if a fever is accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, severe pain, confusion, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration. <br/ > <br/ >In conclusion, a fever is a symptom that should not be ignored. It's a sign that the body is fighting off an infection or other illness. While it can be beneficial in helping the body combat disease, a high or persistent fever can be dangerous and should be treated promptly. Understanding the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of a fever, as well as knowing when to seek medical attention, can help ensure appropriate care and recovery.