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URLhttps://health.clevelandclinic.org/whats-happening-in-my-body-when-i-have-a-fever
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Meta TitleWhat Happens When Your Body Has a Fever?
Meta DescriptionDuring a fever, your body raises its temperature to fight infection, activating your immune system, and causing chills, sweating and fatigue while suppressing pathogens.
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Most of us associate a fever with someone touching our forehead and saying: “You’re feeling a little warm.”  Medically speaking, a fever is measured by temperature: specifically, 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher. This happens not because of the infection or virus. Rather, because the virus or bacteria is seen as an attack, which triggers a response from your body’s immune system. “We tend to think of a fever as something bad that we want to bring down — it’s very uncomfortable. But the funny thing is, it’s our own body starting to fight off what’s invading us,” explains family medicine specialist John Hanicak, MD .  Here, Dr. Hanicak breaks down exactly what happens to your body when you have a fever, and how to find relief. What’s happening to my body when I have a fever? When you have a fever, warming up is your body’s natural response to fighting a virus. Think of it like a fire alarm that goes off when there’s a sign of smoke. Normally, your body temperature is around 98.6 F (37 C). When it hits 100.4 F (38 C) or higher, it’s signaling that something is wrong. “If a virus gets into our system, it’s in the mucus membranes and it starts to show up in the bloodstream,” says Dr. Hanicak. “Then, our immune system releases inflammatory chemicals that increase our core temperature. “That higher temperature makes it very uncomfortable for the virus to live. Your body is literally trying to cook the virus out.” Some other things that happen when you have a fever: An increase in metabolism. During a fever, your body uses more oxygen, increases your heart and respiratory rates, and uses more protein as an energy source. Your immune system goes into overdrive. Your immune system works better in higher temperatures, and your white blood cells become more active. This helps your cells respond quicker against the infection. Your muscles contract. This can cause you to shiver or feel chills (even if you’re sweating or feeling hot at the same time). Your blood vessels constrict. When you have a fever, your vessels narrow to elevate your body’s temperature and fight infection. Low-grade vs. high-grade fever There are different types of fevers that tell us the severity of the infection. If your temperature goes slightly above the normal range, it’s not always a cause for concern. A low-grade fever is between 99 F and 100.9 F ( 37.2C to 38.3 C). “What we call a low-grade fever may actually represent a different set of illnesses than something that gives a high fever,” clarifies Dr. Hanicak. You can get a low-grade fever with any virus, as well as other issues like an ear infection or strep throat . The symptoms of a low-grade fever are typically on the milder side, like slight fatigue, headache and/or chills. On the other hand, a high fever is usually a sign of a more serious infection or inflammatory condition. A high-grade fever is 103 F (29.4 C) or higher. It can be seen with something like influenza (the flu) , pneumonia or COVID-19 .  With a high fever, you may feel symptoms like severe chills, confusion, rapid breathing and increased heart rate. This is when you should seek medical attention if the temperature doesn’t go down within a day or two. How to fight a fever According to Dr. Hanicak, you don’t always have to get rid of a fever because it’s a natural part of our immune response. But that doesn’t make it any less uncomfortable to deal with. If the fever is making you very uncomfortable, then it is worth treating. “At that point, the goal is to get more comfortable so you’re not losing as much fluid and can sleep and rest and, therefore, get better faster,” he adds. Here’s what he recommends: Medications. “We do recommend that you take something like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) or Alleve® (naproxen) to bring down the temperature because you can get dehydrated easily when your body is warm,” explains Dr. Hanicak. Consume lots of fluids. You’re sweating more and your immune system is running in high gear, which makes you lose fluids, so it’s important to drink more than usual. That’s why our caregivers bring us water, tea and chicken soup. Rest. Whether it’s a low or high fever, now is the time to take it easy. Remember, your body is hard at work fighting off an infection, so don’t make it do any more than it needs. Focus on getting bed rest and staying off your feet at least until the fever starts to drop. Cool down. If you’re feeling especially warm, try applying a cool, damp cloth to your forehead or the back of your head. Keep your clothes light and loose so your body has a lot of room to breathe . When should I see a doctor for a fever? How do you know when to go to the doctor? Dr. Hanicak says that if your temperature is below 100.4 F, you’re probably OK. But you should see a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing: A high-grade fever. If the fever is above 103 F (39.4 C) in adults or 100.4 F (38 C) in infants , you should see a provider. A persistent fever. Even if your fever isn’t technically rising, it’s still not a good sign if it’s not going down. If the fever lasts more than three days, it’s best to see a healthcare provider. Other symptoms. If your fever is paired with severe symptoms like a stiff neck, confusion, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, a rash or any concerning symptoms, it’s important to see a provider.
Markdown
Locations: [Abu Dhabi](https://www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae/)\|[Canada](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/canada)\|[Florida](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/florida)\|[London](https://clevelandcliniclondon.uk/)\|[Nevada](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations/nevada)\|[Ohio](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)\| ![Gray gradient](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/gray-gradient-left-16.59910877.svg?w=32&q=75)![Gray gradient](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/gray-gradient-right-32.dd7ce4e5.svg?w=64&q=75) - [Health Essentials](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/) - [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health) - [Find a Provider](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/providers) - [Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/information/access) - [News](https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/) - [Careers](https://jobs.clevelandclinic.org/) - [Contact Us](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/contact-us) [![Cleveland Clinic logo](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/logo-ccf.1e52a22b.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)[![Cleveland Clinic icon](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/CCFLogo.000428c6.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/) [![Health Essentials logo](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/HealthEssentials.b811bb06.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/) ![](https://zdbb.net/l/Dnl1wmWs8xCCpvWNCt9Egf/?w=16&q=75) ![Search Icon](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/search--green.d4218f47.svg?w=64&q=75) Search Advertisement Advertisement December 16, 2024/[Health Conditions](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions)/[Cold, Flu & Respiratory Illnesses](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/cold-flu-respiratory-illnesses) # What Happens When Your Body Has a Fever When your body is fighting infection, your internal temperature rises as a defensive response ![Person sitting up in bed holding hot mug, with thermometer in mouth, with perspiration](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/LargeFeatureImage/8d718a53-6bfd-4b3e-bd67-2afa9a32d4f1/in-bed-with-fever-1189107436) **Image content:** This image is available to view online. View image online (https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/8d718a53-6bfd-4b3e-bd67-2afa9a32d4f1/in-bed-with-fever-1189107436) Person sitting up in bed holding hot mug, with thermometer in mouth, with perspiration Most of us associate a fever with someone touching our forehead and saying: “You’re feeling a little warm.” Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising) Medically speaking, a fever is measured by temperature: specifically, 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher. This happens not because of the infection or virus. Rather, because the virus or bacteria is seen as an attack, which triggers a response from your body’s immune system. “We tend to think of a fever as something bad that we want to bring down — it’s very uncomfortable. But the funny thing is, it’s our own body starting to fight off what’s invading us,” explains family medicine specialist [John Hanicak, MD](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/staff/15223-john-hanicak). Here, Dr. Hanicak breaks down exactly what happens to your body when you have a fever, and how to find relief. ## What’s happening to my body when I have a fever? When you have a fever, warming up is your body’s natural response to fighting a virus. Think of it like a fire alarm that goes off when there’s a sign of smoke. Normally, your body temperature is around 98.6 F (37 C). When it hits 100.4 F (38 C) or higher, it’s signaling that something is wrong. “If a virus gets into our system, it’s in the mucus membranes and it starts to show up in the bloodstream,” says Dr. Hanicak. “Then, our [immune system](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21196-immune-system) releases inflammatory chemicals that increase our core temperature. “That higher temperature makes it very uncomfortable for the virus to live. Your body is literally trying to cook the virus out.” Advertisement Some other things that happen when you have a fever: - **An increase in metabolism.** During a fever, your body uses more oxygen, increases your heart and respiratory rates, and uses more protein as an energy source. - **Your immune system goes into overdrive.** Your immune system works better in higher temperatures, and your white blood cells become more active. This helps your cells respond quicker against the infection. - **Your muscles contract.** This can cause you to shiver or feel chills (even if you’re sweating or feeling hot at the same time). - **Your blood vessels constrict.** When you have a fever, your vessels narrow to elevate your body’s temperature and fight infection. ### Low-grade vs. high-grade fever There are different types of fevers that tell us the severity of the infection. If your temperature goes slightly above the normal range, it’s not always a cause for concern. A low-grade fever is between 99 F and 100.9 F ( 37.2C to 38.3 C). “What we call a low-grade fever may actually represent a different set of illnesses than something that gives a high fever,” clarifies Dr. Hanicak. You can get a low-grade fever with any virus, as well as other issues like an [ear infection](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/home-remedies-for-ear-infection) or [strep throat](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/strep-throat-sore-throat-best-ways-can-tell/). The symptoms of a low-grade fever are typically on the milder side, like slight fatigue, headache and/or chills. On the other hand, a high fever is usually a sign of a more serious infection or inflammatory condition. A high-grade fever is 103 F (29.4 C) or higher. It can be seen with something like [influenza (the flu)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu), [pneumonia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4471-pneumonia) or [COVID-19](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-covid-still-dangerous). With a high fever, you may feel symptoms like severe chills, confusion, rapid breathing and increased heart rate. This is when you should seek medical attention if the temperature doesn’t go down within a day or two. ### How to fight a fever According to Dr. Hanicak, you don’t always have to get rid of a fever because it’s a natural part of our immune response. But that doesn’t make it any less uncomfortable to deal with. If the fever is making you very uncomfortable, then it is worth treating. “At that point, the goal is to get more comfortable so you’re not losing as much fluid and can sleep and rest and, therefore, get better faster,” he adds. Here’s what he recommends: - [**Medications.**](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11086-non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory-medicines-nsaids) “We do recommend that you take something like [acetaminophen](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18829-acetaminophen-capsules-or-tablets) (Tylenol®) or anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) or Alleve® (naproxen) to bring down the temperature because you can get dehydrated easily when your body is warm,” explains Dr. Hanicak. - **Consume lots of fluids.** You’re sweating more and your immune system is running in high gear, which makes you lose fluids, so it’s important to drink more than usual. That’s why our caregivers bring us water, tea and chicken soup. - **Rest.** Whether it’s a low or high fever, now is the time to take it easy. Remember, your body is hard at work fighting off an infection, so don’t make it do any more than it needs. Focus on getting bed rest and staying off your feet at least until the fever starts to drop. - **Cool down.** If you’re feeling especially warm, try applying a cool, damp cloth to your forehead or the back of your head. Keep your clothes light and loose so [your body has a lot of room to breathe](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/night-sweats-how-you-can-find-relief). Advertisement ### When should I see a doctor for a fever? How do you know when to go to the doctor? Dr. Hanicak says that if your temperature is below 100.4 F, you’re probably OK. But you should see a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing: - **A high-grade fever.** If the fever is above 103 F (39.4 C) in adults or [100\.4 F (38 C) in infants](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-fevers-when-to-worry-when-to-relax), you should see a provider. - **A persistent fever.** Even if your fever isn’t technically rising, it’s still not a good sign if it’s not going down. If the fever lasts more than three days, it’s best to see a healthcare provider. - **Other symptoms.** If your fever is paired with severe symptoms like a stiff neck, confusion, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, a rash or any concerning symptoms, it’s important to see a provider. Advertisement [![Cleveland Clinic logo](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/logo-ccf.1e52a22b.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)[![Cleveland Clinic icon](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/CCFLogo.000428c6.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/) [![Health Essentials logo](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/HealthEssentials.b811bb06.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/) ![Subscription icon](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/482db8cd-aa1e-45b5-a2a4-cf6aa5e5d2d4/Health-Essentials?w=256&q=75) ## Better health starts here Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more. [Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026)[Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up) [Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up)[Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026) Learn more about our [editorial process](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/editorial-policy). Health Library Fever [Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#overview) [Possible Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#possible-causes) [Care and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#care-and-treatment) [When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#when-to-call-the-doctor) [Additional Common Questions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#additional-common-questions) Health Library Fever [Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#overview) [Possible Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#possible-causes) [Care and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#care-and-treatment) [When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#when-to-call-the-doctor) [Additional Common Questions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever#additional-common-questions) Advertisement ## Related Articles [![Person wearing cancer head scarf sitting with hand up to their face, feeling unwell](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/5f2ffb11-6211-4377-9036-f3ec1aa8cefc/cancer-sick-1469767571?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-cancer-patients-should-take-fevers-seriously) November 20, 2025/[Cancer Care & Prevention](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/cancer-care-prevention) ### [When You Have Cancer, Take a Fever Seriously](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-cancer-patients-should-take-fevers-seriously) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-cancer-patients-should-take-fevers-seriously Any fever, especially one of 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, should trigger a call to your oncologist — and maybe a trip to the ER [![Person lying in bed sick, with assorted supplies around, like tissues, pills and hot beverage](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/0547321d-c36f-4bc8-9546-40a80f2d4b1d/person-bed-fever-1212623832?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/breaking-a-fever) October 29, 2025/[Primary Care](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/living-healthy/primary-care) ### [Hot Tips: How To Break a Fever](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/breaking-a-fever) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/breaking-a-fever A combination of rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications can help you feel better fast [![Caregiver holding thermometer and a sick child wrapped in blanket](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/8fe1b825-0621-454b-8968-3c24b8bf06bb/momChildFever-1294031305-770x533-1-jpg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-fevers-when-to-worry-when-to-relax) October 24, 2024/[Children’s Health](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/living-healthy/childrens-health) ### [When Should You Worry About Your Child’s Fever?](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-fevers-when-to-worry-when-to-relax) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-fevers-when-to-worry-when-to-relax Most cases are mild and can be treated at home, but some situations may require medical care or a trip to the ER [![Child with fever has wet washcloth on forehead.](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/d2dc681c-68db-4677-837a-4b82d4ace71c/child-Fever-Wet-Cloth-173886940-770x533-1_jpg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/rubbing-alcohol-for-fever) April 27, 2023/[Cold, Flu & Respiratory Illnesses](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/cold-flu-respiratory-illnesses) ### [Never Use Rubbing Alcohol To Bring Down a Fever](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/rubbing-alcohol-for-fever) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/rubbing-alcohol-for-fever It can cause alcohol poisoning and other serious health issues, especially in kids [![parent caring for child's fever in bed](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/3a5a0b5f-c86c-49d9-92e0-4b1e5fa33e81/Childrens-Fever-1367295240-770x533-1-scaled_jpg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/reduce-fever-naturally) April 17, 2023/[Children’s Health](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/living-healthy/childrens-health) ### [How To Treat Your Child’s Fever Naturally (and When To Let It Run Its Course)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/reduce-fever-naturally) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/reduce-fever-naturally It’s important not to give them fever-reducing medications right off the bat [![woman wrapped in blanket cold](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/6eb18c70-6e4f-4f3c-b462-4b4791ce719a/wmnColdBlanket-1162624132-770x533-1_jpg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-am-i-always-cold) March 9, 2022/[Primary Care](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/living-healthy/primary-care) ### [Why Am I Always Cold?](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-am-i-always-cold) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-am-i-always-cold Is it just a passing chill or something more serious? 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Readable Markdown
Most of us associate a fever with someone touching our forehead and saying: “You’re feeling a little warm.” Medically speaking, a fever is measured by temperature: specifically, 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher. This happens not because of the infection or virus. Rather, because the virus or bacteria is seen as an attack, which triggers a response from your body’s immune system. “We tend to think of a fever as something bad that we want to bring down — it’s very uncomfortable. But the funny thing is, it’s our own body starting to fight off what’s invading us,” explains family medicine specialist [John Hanicak, MD](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/staff/15223-john-hanicak). Here, Dr. Hanicak breaks down exactly what happens to your body when you have a fever, and how to find relief. ## What’s happening to my body when I have a fever? When you have a fever, warming up is your body’s natural response to fighting a virus. Think of it like a fire alarm that goes off when there’s a sign of smoke. Normally, your body temperature is around 98.6 F (37 C). When it hits 100.4 F (38 C) or higher, it’s signaling that something is wrong. “If a virus gets into our system, it’s in the mucus membranes and it starts to show up in the bloodstream,” says Dr. Hanicak. “Then, our [immune system](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21196-immune-system) releases inflammatory chemicals that increase our core temperature. “That higher temperature makes it very uncomfortable for the virus to live. Your body is literally trying to cook the virus out.” Some other things that happen when you have a fever: - **An increase in metabolism.** During a fever, your body uses more oxygen, increases your heart and respiratory rates, and uses more protein as an energy source. - **Your immune system goes into overdrive.** Your immune system works better in higher temperatures, and your white blood cells become more active. This helps your cells respond quicker against the infection. - **Your muscles contract.** This can cause you to shiver or feel chills (even if you’re sweating or feeling hot at the same time). - **Your blood vessels constrict.** When you have a fever, your vessels narrow to elevate your body’s temperature and fight infection. ### Low-grade vs. high-grade fever There are different types of fevers that tell us the severity of the infection. If your temperature goes slightly above the normal range, it’s not always a cause for concern. A low-grade fever is between 99 F and 100.9 F ( 37.2C to 38.3 C). “What we call a low-grade fever may actually represent a different set of illnesses than something that gives a high fever,” clarifies Dr. Hanicak. You can get a low-grade fever with any virus, as well as other issues like an [ear infection](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/home-remedies-for-ear-infection) or [strep throat](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/strep-throat-sore-throat-best-ways-can-tell/). The symptoms of a low-grade fever are typically on the milder side, like slight fatigue, headache and/or chills. On the other hand, a high fever is usually a sign of a more serious infection or inflammatory condition. A high-grade fever is 103 F (29.4 C) or higher. It can be seen with something like [influenza (the flu)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu), [pneumonia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4471-pneumonia) or [COVID-19](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-covid-still-dangerous). With a high fever, you may feel symptoms like severe chills, confusion, rapid breathing and increased heart rate. This is when you should seek medical attention if the temperature doesn’t go down within a day or two. ### How to fight a fever According to Dr. Hanicak, you don’t always have to get rid of a fever because it’s a natural part of our immune response. But that doesn’t make it any less uncomfortable to deal with. If the fever is making you very uncomfortable, then it is worth treating. “At that point, the goal is to get more comfortable so you’re not losing as much fluid and can sleep and rest and, therefore, get better faster,” he adds. Here’s what he recommends: - [**Medications.**](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11086-non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory-medicines-nsaids) “We do recommend that you take something like [acetaminophen](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18829-acetaminophen-capsules-or-tablets) (Tylenol®) or anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) or Alleve® (naproxen) to bring down the temperature because you can get dehydrated easily when your body is warm,” explains Dr. Hanicak. - **Consume lots of fluids.** You’re sweating more and your immune system is running in high gear, which makes you lose fluids, so it’s important to drink more than usual. That’s why our caregivers bring us water, tea and chicken soup. - **Rest.** Whether it’s a low or high fever, now is the time to take it easy. Remember, your body is hard at work fighting off an infection, so don’t make it do any more than it needs. Focus on getting bed rest and staying off your feet at least until the fever starts to drop. - **Cool down.** If you’re feeling especially warm, try applying a cool, damp cloth to your forehead or the back of your head. Keep your clothes light and loose so [your body has a lot of room to breathe](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/night-sweats-how-you-can-find-relief). ### When should I see a doctor for a fever? How do you know when to go to the doctor? Dr. Hanicak says that if your temperature is below 100.4 F, you’re probably OK. But you should see a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing: - **A high-grade fever.** If the fever is above 103 F (39.4 C) in adults or [100\.4 F (38 C) in infants](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-fevers-when-to-worry-when-to-relax), you should see a provider. - **A persistent fever.** Even if your fever isn’t technically rising, it’s still not a good sign if it’s not going down. If the fever lasts more than three days, it’s best to see a healthcare provider. - **Other symptoms.** If your fever is paired with severe symptoms like a stiff neck, confusion, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, a rash or any concerning symptoms, it’s important to see a provider.
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