When you’re feeling sick or slightly “off,” one of the first things you should do is use a thermometer to check your temperature.
A fever is your immune system's way of changing the battleground to help itself fight. When your body recognizes an invader (like bacteria or a virus), your immune system raises your body temperature as a defense. Your immune system works much better in hotter temperatures, while invaders do worse. Fevers may feel terrible to you, but they help your body destroy invaders and get back to its healthy self.
Fevers defined
Normal body temperatures sit between 97 F to 99 F. A fever is a temperature of 100.4F or higher. There are low-grade fevers and more serious fevers, depending on the sick person's age. A serious fever is warmer than 103 F in young adults.
Which thermometer reading is best
- Mouth: This is the best choice for when you’re in your dorm, apartment or on campus. Oral readings are accurate and easy to take
- Armpit: Placing an oral thermometer in the armpit is less accurate and will be about 1 degree lower than a mouth reading
- Forehead: Though these are convenient and fast, they aren’t as accurate. No-touch forehead thermometers are the least accurate
Home treatments for fevers
You don't always have to treat a fever, especially if it’s low-grade.
A fever is part of your normal immune response. Lowering your body temperature with medication can limit your immune system's fighting power. However, if your symptoms are intolerable, acetaminophen, ibuprofen or any other over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) can effectively treat a fever.
Other at-home remedies can make you feel more comfortable and help with accompanying symptoms:
- Decreasing the temperature in your dorm, apartment or home
- Using a fan
- Using fewer blankets or wearing fewer layers
- Trying soothing honey or lemon teas
- Drinking cold beverages for sore throat
- Using a humidifier for cough
Above all, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.
If you experience a fever, isolate and do not attend class. Remember to email your professor and let them know your situation.
When to get medical attention
Most fevers don’t require medical attention. However, any of these symptoms along with a fever means it's time to seek medical help.
| Symptoms | Nebraska Medicine - UNO Health Center | Emergency Room |
|---|---|---|
| Seizure | X | |
| Severe headache | X | X |
| Mental confusion | X | |
| Persistent vomiting | X | X |
| Difficulty breathing | X | |
| Stiff neck | X | X |
| Sensitivity to light | X | X |
| Chest pain or shortness of breath | X | X |
| Pain when urinating | X | X |
Remember, a fever is also one of the symptoms of COVID-19. If you have symptoms and suspect you have COVID-19, self-isolate, and call 402.554.2374 to schedule a telehealth virtual video visit with a UNO Health Center provider.
Testing may be ordered depending on your symptoms.