A fever is one of the most common symptoms of illness. It can range in severity from mild to severe and, depending on its cause, can be a sign of something minor or a more serious health issue. If you’re feeling unwell and have a fever, it’s important to learn about the condition and understand what to do. Let’s take a look at what you should know about fever.

What Is Fever?
A fever is defined as an elevated body temperature—usually above 100°F (37.8°C). While this may seem like a small difference, it can have a major impact on your overall health. The average body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), but this can vary slightly depending on gender and age. When your body temperature rises above the normal range, you develop a fever.

What Causes Fever?
There are many potential causes of fever including infection, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, heat exhaustion, certain medications and even some cancers. Common infections that cause fevers include colds, flu, strep throat and urinary tract infections (UTIs). In some cases, such as with UTIs in children under two years old or adults over 65 years old who have had recent hospitalizations or surgeries, antibiotics may be prescribed for treatment of the infection causing the fever.

How Can I Treat Fever?
If you develop a mild fever at home without any other concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, there are several steps you can take to reduce it naturally: rest; drink plenty of fluids; take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen; cool baths or showers; dress lightly; keep indoor temperatures cool by using fans or air conditioning; avoid hot beverages and spicy foods; and get plenty of sleep. If these steps don't help reduce your fever within 24 hours or if your symptoms worsen suddenly seek medical attention right away.

Conclusion:
Fevers are one of the most common signs of illness—but they don’t always mean that something serious is wrong with you. Generally speaking they are caused by infection or inflammation but they can also be triggered by other conditions such as heat exhaustion and certain medications. If you experience any concerning symptoms in addition to having a fever consult with your doctor immediately for further testing and treatment if necessary. Otherwise home remedies like getting rest drinking fluids taking over-the-counter medications cooling baths/showers dressing lightly keeping indoor temperatures cool avoiding hot beverages/spicy foods and getting plenty of sleep should help reduce your fever within 24 hours. By understanding what causes fevers how to treat them at home when possible and when medical attention is necessary patients will be better equipped to handle fevers safely effectively and appropriately when they occur!