ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled
| Filter | Status | Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP status | PASS | download_http_code = 200 | HTTP 200 |
| Age cutoff | PASS | download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH | 0.7 months ago |
| History drop | PASS | isNull(history_drop_reason) | No drop reason |
| Spam/ban | PASS | fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0 | ml_spam_score=0 |
| Canonical | PASS | meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed | Not set |
| Property | Value | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| URL | https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764 | ||||||||||||
| Last Crawled | 2026-04-01 05:24:54 (22 days ago) | ||||||||||||
| First Indexed | 2017-10-12 21:12:13 (8 years ago) | ||||||||||||
| HTTP Status Code | 200 | ||||||||||||
| Content | |||||||||||||
| Meta Title | Fever - Diagnosis & treatment - Mayo Clinic | ||||||||||||
| Meta Description | Medications can lower a fever, but sometimes it's better left untreated. Fever may play a role in helping your body fight off infections. | ||||||||||||
| Meta Canonical | null | ||||||||||||
| Boilerpipe Text | Diagnosis
To evaluate a fever, your care provider may:
Ask questions about your symptoms and medical history
Perform a physical exam
Take nasal or throat samples to test for respiratory infections
Order tests, such as blood tests or a chest X-ray, as needed, based on your medical history and physical exam
Because a fever can indicate a serious illness in a young infant, especially two months of age or younger, your baby might be admitted to the hospital for testing and treatment.
Fever of unknown origin
When a fever lasts for more than three weeks — constantly or on several occasions — and there is no clear cause, it's usually called a fever of unknown origin. In these cases, you may need to see specialists in one or more medical fields for further evaluations and tests.
More Information
Treatment
For a low-grade fever, your care provider may not recommend taking medications to lower your body temperature. These minor fevers may be helpful in reducing the number of microbes causing your illness. Fevers above 102 F (38.9 C) tend to cause discomfort and often require treatment.
Over-the-counter medications
In the case of a high fever or a fever that causes discomfort, your care provider may recommend nonprescription medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others).
Use these medications according to the label instructions or as recommended by your health care provider. Be careful not to take too much. High doses or long-term use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen may cause liver or kidney damage, and acute overdoses can be fatal. Don't give aspirin to children, because it may trigger a rare, but potentially fatal, disorder known as Reye's syndrome.
These medications will usually lower your temperature, but you may still have a mild fever. It may take 1 to 2 hours for the medication to work. Call your care provider if your fever doesn't improve, even after taking medication.
Prescription medications
Your health care provider may prescribe other medications based on the cause of your illness. Treating the underlying cause may lessen signs and symptoms, including fever.
Treatment of infants
Infants, especially those younger than two months old, might need to be admitted to the hospital for testing and treatment. In babies this young, a fever could indicate a serious infection that requires intravenous (IV) medications and round-the-clock monitoring.
More Information
Self care
You can try a number of things to make yourself or your child more comfortable during a fever:
Drink plenty of fluids.
Drinking fluids will improve heat loss from the skin and replace water lost through sweating. Water and clear broth are healthy choices. Infants under 6 months should only have breast milk or formula.
Rest.
You need rest to recover, and activity can raise your body temperature.
Stay cool.
If you aren't shivering, dress in light clothing, keep the room temperature cool, and sleep with only a sheet or light blanket.
More Information
Preparing for your appointment
Your appointment may be with your family doctor, pediatrician or other care provider. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment and know what to expect from your care provider.
What you can do
Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions.
When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance.
Write down information about the fever,
such as when it started, how and where you measured it (orally or rectally, for example) and any other symptoms. Note whether you or your child has been around anyone who's been ill.
Write down key personal information,
including possible exposure to anyone who's been ill or recent travel out of the country.
Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements
that you or your child is taking.
Write down questions to ask
the care provider.
For a fever, some basic questions to ask your provider include:
What's likely causing the fever?
What kinds of tests are needed?
What treatment approach do you recommend?
Is medicine necessary to lower the fever?
Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment as they occur to you.
What to expect from your doctor
Be prepared to answer questions, such as:
When did the symptoms first occur?
What method did you use to take your or your child's temperature?
What was the temperature of the environment surrounding you or your child?
Have you or your child taken any fever-lowering medication?
What other symptoms are you or your child experiencing? How severe are they?
Do you or your child have any chronic health conditions?
What medications do you or your child regularly take?
Have you or your child been around anyone who's ill?
Have you or your child recently had surgery?
Have you or your child recently traveled outside the country?
What, if anything, seems to improve the symptoms?
What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms? | ||||||||||||
| Markdown | [Skip to content](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764#main-content)
[](https://www.mayoclinic.org/)
[](https://www.mayoclinic.org/)
- [Request appointment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments)
- [Log in](https://onlineservices.mayoclinic.org/content/staticpatient/showpage/patientonline)
- Search
- Menu
[Request appointment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments)
[Donate](https://give.mayoclinic.org/give/609586/#!/donation/checkout)
[Diseases & conditions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions)
[Find a doctor](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments/find-a-doctor)
- Care at Mayo Clinic
[Patient-Centered Care](https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-centered-care)
[About Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic)
[Request Appointment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments)
[Find a Doctor](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments/find-a-doctor)
[Locations](https://www.mayoclinic.org/locations)
[Clinical Trials](https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials)
[Connect to Support Groups](https://connect.mayoclinic.org/)
[Patient & Visitor Guide](https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide)
[Billing & Insurance](https://www.mayoclinic.org/billing-insurance)
[Departments & Centers](https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers)
[International Services](https://www.mayoclinic.org/international)
[Contact Us](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic/contact)
[Patient & Visitor Guide](https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide)
- Health Library
[Diseases & Conditions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions)
[Symptoms](https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms)
[Tests & Procedures](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures)
[Drugs & Supplements](https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements)
[Healthy Lifestyle](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle)
[Mayo Clinic Health Letter & Books](https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/product/healthletter/?utm_source=MC-DotOrg-PC-Top&utm_medium=PromoCard&utm_campaign=HealthLetter&utm_content=HL_1)
[Mayo Clinic Health Letter & Books](https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/product/healthletter/?utm_source=MC-DotOrg-PC-Top&utm_medium=PromoCard&utm_campaign=HealthLetter&utm_content=HL_1)
- For Medical Professionals
[Medical Professional Resources](https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals)
[Refer a Patient](https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/provider-relations/refer-patient)
[Continuing Medical Education](https://ce.mayo.edu/)
[Mayo Clinic Laboratories](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/)
[Video Center](https://medprofvideos.mayoclinic.org/)
[Journals & Publications](https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/publications)
[Mayo Clinic Alumni Association](https://alumniassociation.mayo.edu/)
[Continuing Medical Education](https://ce.mayo.edu/)
- Research & Education at Mayo Clinic
## Research
[Research at Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayo.edu/research)
[Research Faculty](https://www.mayo.edu/research/faculty)
[Laboratories](https://www.mayo.edu/research/labs)
[Core Facilities](https://www.mayo.edu/research/core-facilities/overview)
[Centers & Programs](https://www.mayo.edu/research/centers-programs)
[Departments & Divisions](https://www.mayo.edu/research/departments-divisions)
[Clinical Trials](https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials)
[Institutional Review Board](https://www.mayo.edu/research/institutional-review-board/overview)
[Postdoctoral Fellowships](https://jobs.mayoclinic.org/search-jobs/postdoctoral%20fellowships/33647/1)
[Training Grant Programs](https://www.mayo.edu/research/training-grant-programs)
## Education
[Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science](https://college.mayo.edu/)
[Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences](https://college.mayo.edu/academics/biomedical-research-training/)
[Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine](https://college.mayo.edu/academics/mayo-clinic-alix-school-of-medicine/)
[Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education](https://college.mayo.edu/academics/residencies-and-fellowships/)
[Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences](https://college.mayo.edu/academics/health-sciences-education/)
[Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development](https://ce.mayo.edu/)
[Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science](https://college.mayo.edu/)
- Giving to Mayo Clinic
[Give Now](https://give.mayoclinic.org/campaign/740556/donate)
[Giving to Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/giving-to-mayo-clinic)
[Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/giving-to-mayo-clinic/contact-us/frequently-asked-questions)
[Contact Us to Give](https://www.mayoclinic.org/giving-to-mayo-clinic/contact-us)
[Make a Donation](https://give.mayoclinic.org/campaign/740556/donate)
Search for a disease or condition . Type 3 or more letters to display suggested search options.
When results are available, use up and down arrow keys to navigate. Press space key to fill the input with the suggestion or enter key to search with the suggestion.Search by keyword or phrase
Search
[Diseases & Conditions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions)
1. [Diseases & Conditions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions)
# Fever
[Request an appointment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments)
***
- [Symptoms & causes](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20352759)
- [Diagnosis & treatment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764)
- [Doctors & departments](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/doctors-departments/ddc-20352766)
## On this page
- [Diagnosis](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764#diagnosis)
- [Treatment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764#treatment)
- [Self care](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764#self-care)
- [Preparing for your appointment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764#preparing-for-your-appointment)
***
## Diagnosis
To evaluate a fever, your care provider may:
- Ask questions about your symptoms and medical history
- Perform a physical exam
- Take nasal or throat samples to test for respiratory infections
- Order tests, such as blood tests or a chest X-ray, as needed, based on your medical history and physical exam
Because a fever can indicate a serious illness in a young infant, especially two months of age or younger, your baby might be admitted to the hospital for testing and treatment.
### Fever of unknown origin
When a fever lasts for more than three weeks — constantly or on several occasions — and there is no clear cause, it's usually called a fever of unknown origin. In these cases, you may need to see specialists in one or more medical fields for further evaluations and tests.
### More Information
- [X-ray](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/x-ray/about/pac-20395303)
***
## Treatment
For a low-grade fever, your care provider may not recommend taking medications to lower your body temperature. These minor fevers may be helpful in reducing the number of microbes causing your illness. Fevers above 102 F (38.9 C) tend to cause discomfort and often require treatment.
### Over-the-counter medications
In the case of a high fever or a fever that causes discomfort, your care provider may recommend nonprescription medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others).
Use these medications according to the label instructions or as recommended by your health care provider. Be careful not to take too much. High doses or long-term use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen may cause liver or kidney damage, and acute overdoses can be fatal. Don't give aspirin to children, because it may trigger a rare, but potentially fatal, disorder known as Reye's syndrome.
These medications will usually lower your temperature, but you may still have a mild fever. It may take 1 to 2 hours for the medication to work. Call your care provider if your fever doesn't improve, even after taking medication.
### Prescription medications
Your health care provider may prescribe other medications based on the cause of your illness. Treating the underlying cause may lessen signs and symptoms, including fever.
### Treatment of infants
Infants, especially those younger than two months old, might need to be admitted to the hospital for testing and treatment. In babies this young, a fever could indicate a serious infection that requires intravenous (IV) medications and round-the-clock monitoring.
[Request an appointment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments)
### More Information
- [Fever treatment: Quick guide to treating a fever](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/in-depth/fever/art-20050997)
***
## Self care
You can try a number of things to make yourself or your child more comfortable during a fever:
- **Drink plenty of fluids.** Drinking fluids will improve heat loss from the skin and replace water lost through sweating. Water and clear broth are healthy choices. Infants under 6 months should only have breast milk or formula.
- **Rest.** You need rest to recover, and activity can raise your body temperature.
- **Stay cool.** If you aren't shivering, dress in light clothing, keep the room temperature cool, and sleep with only a sheet or light blanket.
### More Information
- [Thermometers: Understand the options](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/in-depth/thermometers/art-20046737)
***
## Preparing for your appointment
Your appointment may be with your family doctor, pediatrician or other care provider. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment and know what to expect from your care provider.
### What you can do
- **Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions.** When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance.
- **Write down information about the fever,** such as when it started, how and where you measured it (orally or rectally, for example) and any other symptoms. Note whether you or your child has been around anyone who's been ill.
- **Write down key personal information,** including possible exposure to anyone who's been ill or recent travel out of the country.
- **Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements** that you or your child is taking.
- **Write down questions to ask** the care provider.
For a fever, some basic questions to ask your provider include:
- What's likely causing the fever?
- What kinds of tests are needed?
- What treatment approach do you recommend?
- Is medicine necessary to lower the fever?
- Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment as they occur to you.
### What to expect from your doctor
Be prepared to answer questions, such as:
- When did the symptoms first occur?
- What method did you use to take your or your child's temperature?
- What was the temperature of the environment surrounding you or your child?
- Have you or your child taken any fever-lowering medication?
- What other symptoms are you or your child experiencing? How severe are they?
- Do you or your child have any chronic health conditions?
- What medications do you or your child regularly take?
- Have you or your child been around anyone who's ill?
- Have you or your child recently had surgery?
- Have you or your child recently traveled outside the country?
- What, if anything, seems to improve the symptoms?
- What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms?
[Request an appointment](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments)
***
[By Mayo Clinic Staff](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/meet-our-medical-editors)
December 24, 2025
[Print](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764?p=1)
Show References
1. Kliegman RM, et al. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Elsevier; 2020. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
2. Bennett JE, et al. Temperature regulation and the pathogenesis of fever. In: Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Elsevier; 2020. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
3. Schmitt BD. Pediatric Telephone Protocols: Office Version. 17th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2021.
4. Fever. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/biology-of-infectious-disease/fever. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022.
5. Dinarello CA. Pathophysiology and treatment of fever in adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
6. Goldman L, et al., eds. Approach to fever or suspected infection in the normal host. In: Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Elsevier; 2020. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
7. Millichap JJ. Treatment and prognosis of febrile seizures. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 8, 2022.
8. Ward MA. Fever in infants and children: Pathophysiology and management. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
9. Febrile seizures fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Febrile-Seizures-Fact-Sheet. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022.
10. Fever. American College of Emergency Physicians. https://www.emergencyphysicians.org/article/know-when-to-go/fever. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022.
11. When and how to wash your hands. U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022.
12. How to protect yourself & others. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022.
13. AskMayoExpert. Infant fever (age 60 days or younger). Mayo Clinic; 2020.
14. AskMayoExpert. Fever of unknown origin. Mayo Clinic; 2021.
15. Wilkinson JM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Jan. 10, 2024.
- [Symptoms & causes](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20352759)
- [Doctors & departments](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/doctors-departments/ddc-20352766)
1. [Diseases & Conditions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions)
2. Fever - Diagnosis & treatment - Mayo Clinic
***
## More Information
- [Fever treatment: Quick guide to treating a fever](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/in-depth/fever/art-20050997)
- [Thermometers: Understand the options](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/in-depth/thermometers/art-20046737)
***
## Associated Procedures
- [X-ray](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/x-ray/about/pac-20395303)
***
## Products & Services
- [A Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Home Remedies](https://order.store.mayoclinic.com/flex/mmv/hremed1/?altkey=HRSORG&utm_source=MC-DotOrg-PS&utm_medium=Link&utm_campaign=HomeRemedies-Book&utm_content=HOM)
CON-20305540
[Skip Advertisement](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764#advertising-disclaimer)
## Advertisement
Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.
### Advertising & Sponsorship
- [Policy](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/advertising-sponsorship-policy.html)
- [Opportunities](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/advertising-sponsorship.html)
- [Ad Choices](https://optout.aboutads.info/)
***
## Mayo Clinic Press
Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from [Mayo Clinic Press](https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/?utm_source=MC-DotOrg-Text&utm_medium=Link&utm_campaign=MC-Press&utm_content=MCPRESS).
- [Mayo Clinic on Incontinence](https://order.store.mayoclinic.com/flex/mmv/incon01/?utm_source=MC-DotOrg-Text&utm_medium=Link&utm_campaign=Incontinence-Book&utm_content=INC)
- [The Essential Diabetes Book](https://order.store.mayoclinic.com/flex/mmv/ESDIAB1/?altkey=ESMCPRC&utm_source=MC-DotOrg-Text&utm_medium=Link&utm_campaign=Diabetes-Book&utm_content=EDIAB)
- [Mayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance](https://order.store.mayoclinic.com/flex/mmv/HRBAL02/?altkey=HRMCPRC&utm_source=MC-DotOrg-Text&utm_medium=Link&utm_campaign=Hearing-Book&utm_content=HEAR)
- [FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment](https://diet.mayoclinic.org/us/diet-assessment/diet-assessment/?profile=true&promo=65-qtr&utm_source=Mayo&utm_medium=Display&utm_campaign=text_link)
- [Mayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book](https://order.store.mayoclinic.com/flex/mmv/HLFBOOK/?altkey=HLFBORG&utm_source=MC-DotOrg-Text&utm_medium=Link&utm_campaign=HealthLetter-Digital&utm_content=HL_FREEBOOK)
[Skip Advertisement](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764#promo)
## Advertisement
Close
Advertisement
## National Doctors’ Day is March 30\!
[Give Now\!](https://give.mayoclinic.org/campaign/769678/donate?utm_source=devappeal&utm_medium=devweb&utm_campaign=devdoctorsday&preset1=50&preset2=100&preset3=250&preset4=1000&amount=100¤cy=USD&c_src=26R031WG1MWV90Z11B)
Your gift to celebrate this day advances our doctors’ lifesaving work.
[Give Now\!](https://give.mayoclinic.org/campaign/769678/donate?utm_source=devappeal&utm_medium=devweb&utm_campaign=devdoctorsday&preset1=50&preset2=100&preset3=250&preset4=1000&amount=100¤cy=USD&c_src=26R031WG1MWV90Z11B)
- [Find a doctor](https://www.mayoclinic.org/appointments/find-a-doctor)
- [Explore careers](https://jobs.mayoclinic.org/)
- [Sign up for free e-newsletters](https://links.e.response.mayoclinic.org/preferencecenter)
## [About Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic)
- [About this Site](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site)
- [Contact Us](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic/contact)
- [Locations](https://www.mayoclinic.org/locations)
- [Health Information Policy](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/health-information-policy)
- [Medicare Accountable Care Organization (ACO)](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic/aco)
- [Media Requests](https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/newsroom/)
- [News Network](https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/)
- [Price Transparency](https://www.mayoclinic.org/billing-insurance/price-estimates/chargemaster)
## [Medical Professionals](https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals)
- [AskMayoExpert](https://askmayoexpert.mayoclinic.org/)
- [Clinical Trials](https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials)
- [Mayo Clinic Alumni Association](https://alumniassociation.mayo.edu/)
- [Refer a Patient](https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/provider-relations/refer-patient)
## [Businesses](https://businessdevelopment.mayoclinic.org/)
- [Executive Health Program](https://www.mayoclinic.org/executive-health)
- [International Business Collaborations](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic/international-business-collaborations)
- [Facilities & Real Estate](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic/facilities-and-real-estate)
- [Supplier Information](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic/supplier-information)
## [Students](https://college.mayo.edu/)
- [Admissions Requirements](https://college.mayo.edu/admissions-and-tuition/)
- [Degree Programs](https://college.mayo.edu/academics/)
- [Student & Faculty Portal](https://edlinkplus.mayo.edu/)
## [Researchers](https://www.mayo.edu/research)
- [Research Faculty](https://www.mayo.edu/research/faculty)
- [Laboratories](https://www.mayo.edu/research/labs)
## [International Patients](https://www.mayoclinic.org/international)
- [Appointments](https://www.mayoclinic.org/international/contact)
- [Financial Services](https://www.mayoclinic.org/international/costs-and-insurance)
- [Representative Offices](https://www.mayoclinic.org/international/support/representative-offices)
## [Charitable Care & Financial Assistance](https://www.mayoclinic.org/billing-insurance/financial-assistance)
[Community Health Needs Assessment](https://www.communityengagement.mayoclinic.org/community-health-needs-assessment)
- [Financial Assistance Documents – Arizona](https://www.mayoclinic.org/billing-insurance/financial-assistance/arizona-documents)
- [Financial Assistance Documents – Florida](https://www.mayoclinic.org/billing-insurance/financial-assistance/florida-documents)
- [Financial Assistance Documents – Minnesota](https://www.mayoclinic.org/billing-insurance/financial-assistance/minnesota-documents)
***
## Follow Mayo Clinic
- [X](https://x.com/mayoclinic)
- [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/mayoclinic)
- [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/MayoClinic)
- [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/mayo-clinic)
- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mayoclinic/)
## Get the Mayo Clinic app
- [](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mayoclinic.patient&hl=en%27)
- [](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mayo-clinic/id523220194)
- [Terms & Conditions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/terms-conditions-use-policy)
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/privacy-policy)
- [Notice of Privacy Practices](https://mcforms.mayo.edu/mc5200-mc5299/mc5256-01.pdf)
- [Notice of Nondiscrimination](https://mcforms.mayo.edu/mc2500-mc2599/mc2570-61.pdf)
- [Digital Accessibility Statement](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/accessibility-statement)
- [Advertising & Sponsorship Policy](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/advertising-sponsorship-policy)
- [Site Map](https://www.mayoclinic.org/site-help/site-map)
- [Manage Cookies](https://www.mayoclinic.org/)
- [Terms and Conditions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/terms-conditions-use-policy)
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/privacy-policy)
- [Notice of Privacy Practices](https://mcforms.mayo.edu/mc5200-mc5299/mc5256-01.pdf)
- [Notice of Nondiscrimination](https://mcforms.mayo.edu/mc2500-mc2599/mc2570-61.pdf)
- [Digital Accessibility Statement](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/accessibility-statement)
- [Advertising and Sponsorship Policy](https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-this-site/advertising-sponsorship-policy)
- [Site Map](https://www.mayoclinic.org/site-help/site-map)
- [Manage Cookies](https://www.mayoclinic.org/)
***
Language:
English
- [English](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764)
- [Español](https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764)
- [العربية](https://www.mayoclinic.org/ar/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764)
- [简体中文](https://www.mayoclinic.org/zh-hans/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764)
© 1998-2026 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved.
Language:
English
- [English](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764)
- [Español](https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764)
- [العربية](https://www.mayoclinic.org/ar/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764)
- [简体中文](https://www.mayoclinic.org/zh-hans/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764) | ||||||||||||
| Readable Markdown | Diagnosis
To evaluate a fever, your care provider may:
- Ask questions about your symptoms and medical history
- Perform a physical exam
- Take nasal or throat samples to test for respiratory infections
- Order tests, such as blood tests or a chest X-ray, as needed, based on your medical history and physical exam
Because a fever can indicate a serious illness in a young infant, especially two months of age or younger, your baby might be admitted to the hospital for testing and treatment.
### Fever of unknown origin
When a fever lasts for more than three weeks — constantly or on several occasions — and there is no clear cause, it's usually called a fever of unknown origin. In these cases, you may need to see specialists in one or more medical fields for further evaluations and tests.
More Information
Treatment
For a low-grade fever, your care provider may not recommend taking medications to lower your body temperature. These minor fevers may be helpful in reducing the number of microbes causing your illness. Fevers above 102 F (38.9 C) tend to cause discomfort and often require treatment.
### Over-the-counter medications
In the case of a high fever or a fever that causes discomfort, your care provider may recommend nonprescription medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others).
Use these medications according to the label instructions or as recommended by your health care provider. Be careful not to take too much. High doses or long-term use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen may cause liver or kidney damage, and acute overdoses can be fatal. Don't give aspirin to children, because it may trigger a rare, but potentially fatal, disorder known as Reye's syndrome.
These medications will usually lower your temperature, but you may still have a mild fever. It may take 1 to 2 hours for the medication to work. Call your care provider if your fever doesn't improve, even after taking medication.
### Prescription medications
Your health care provider may prescribe other medications based on the cause of your illness. Treating the underlying cause may lessen signs and symptoms, including fever.
### Treatment of infants
Infants, especially those younger than two months old, might need to be admitted to the hospital for testing and treatment. In babies this young, a fever could indicate a serious infection that requires intravenous (IV) medications and round-the-clock monitoring.
More Information
Self care
You can try a number of things to make yourself or your child more comfortable during a fever:
- **Drink plenty of fluids.** Drinking fluids will improve heat loss from the skin and replace water lost through sweating. Water and clear broth are healthy choices. Infants under 6 months should only have breast milk or formula.
- **Rest.** You need rest to recover, and activity can raise your body temperature.
- **Stay cool.** If you aren't shivering, dress in light clothing, keep the room temperature cool, and sleep with only a sheet or light blanket.
More Information
Preparing for your appointment
Your appointment may be with your family doctor, pediatrician or other care provider. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment and know what to expect from your care provider.
### What you can do
- **Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions.** When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance.
- **Write down information about the fever,** such as when it started, how and where you measured it (orally or rectally, for example) and any other symptoms. Note whether you or your child has been around anyone who's been ill.
- **Write down key personal information,** including possible exposure to anyone who's been ill or recent travel out of the country.
- **Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements** that you or your child is taking.
- **Write down questions to ask** the care provider.
For a fever, some basic questions to ask your provider include:
- What's likely causing the fever?
- What kinds of tests are needed?
- What treatment approach do you recommend?
- Is medicine necessary to lower the fever?
- Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment as they occur to you.
### What to expect from your doctor
Be prepared to answer questions, such as:
- When did the symptoms first occur?
- What method did you use to take your or your child's temperature?
- What was the temperature of the environment surrounding you or your child?
- Have you or your child taken any fever-lowering medication?
- What other symptoms are you or your child experiencing? How severe are they?
- Do you or your child have any chronic health conditions?
- What medications do you or your child regularly take?
- Have you or your child been around anyone who's ill?
- Have you or your child recently had surgery?
- Have you or your child recently traveled outside the country?
- What, if anything, seems to improve the symptoms?
- What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms? | ||||||||||||
| ML Classification | |||||||||||||
| ML Categories |
Raw JSON{
"/Health": 999,
"/Health/Health_Conditions": 946,
"/Health/Health_Conditions/Infectious_Diseases": 926,
"/Health/Health_Conditions/Infectious_Diseases/Other": 916
} | ||||||||||||
| ML Page Types |
Raw JSON{
"/Article": 730,
"/Article/How_to": 372
} | ||||||||||||
| ML Intent Types |
Raw JSON{
"Informational": 997
} | ||||||||||||
| Content Metadata | |||||||||||||
| Language | en | ||||||||||||
| Author | null | ||||||||||||
| Publish Time | not set | ||||||||||||
| Original Publish Time | 2017-10-12 21:12:13 (8 years ago) | ||||||||||||
| Republished | No | ||||||||||||
| Word Count (Total) | 1,710 | ||||||||||||
| Word Count (Content) | 820 | ||||||||||||
| Links | |||||||||||||
| External Links | 37 | ||||||||||||
| Internal Links | 79 | ||||||||||||
| Technical SEO | |||||||||||||
| Meta Nofollow | No | ||||||||||||
| Meta Noarchive | No | ||||||||||||
| JS Rendered | Yes | ||||||||||||
| Redirect Target | null | ||||||||||||
| Performance | |||||||||||||
| Download Time (ms) | 446 | ||||||||||||
| TTFB (ms) | 265 | ||||||||||||
| Download Size (bytes) | 105,913 | ||||||||||||
| Shard | 40 (laksa) | ||||||||||||
| Root Hash | 1608882045018104440 | ||||||||||||
| Unparsed URL | org,mayoclinic!www,/diseases-conditions/fever/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352764 s443 | ||||||||||||