Fever and flu are very common types of illnesses. People do not take it very seriously and avoid going to a doctor for these problems. Neglecting fever and flu is not a good sign. You may invite some serious infections. It is better to consult a doctor and get these unimportant illnesses cured.
What Is a Fever?
Fever is defined as a rise in body temperature. The standard body temperature is 98.6 °F and the temperature above this is characterized as fever. Do not take this rise of temperature easily because our immune system responds to certain serious illnesses in the form of fever. Diseases like Tuberculosis and cancer have fever as a primary symptom. Here are some common types of fevers that you should be worried about.
Different Types of Fevers
Fevers are classified based on their period and their intensity. Depending upon these two factors, here are the names you should know:
Fevers and Severity
Based on severity or intensity, fevers are
- Low fevers in which the temperature varies from 100.5 °F to 102 °F
- Moderate fevers in which your body temperature rises to 102 °F to 104 °F
- High fevers are more disturbing because the temperature reaches 104 °F to 106 °F
- The most severe and troubling type is hyperpyrexia in which the body temperature is 106 °F or above.
This temperature variation helps the doctor to identify the exact factor responsible for fever. Low fevers are usually caused by weather changes but the rest are alarms from the immune system. Hit the emergency room near you right away.
Fever and Duration
You can categorize fevers based on duration. Some fevers last for a small timespan but some do not leave you easily. Fevers even come and go. For your ease, here is a list of such fevers.
- The fever that lasts for seven days is called acute fever
- 14 days span of fever is called the sub-acute type of fever
- Persistent or chronic fevers last for more than 14 days
- Another type is the fever of undetermined origin (FUO) that last for weeks and even months
Diagnosis
You know the procedure. It is simple and a thermometer is the best device to do that. If you have been suffering from fever for two days, it is better that you visit a doctor. Low fevers are tolerable but if they are consistent for three days or more, find an ER near you immediately. Most fevers are symptoms of other diseases. The doctor will prescribe some tests that will further assist the doctor in prescribing medicines to cure you.
Preventive Measures for Fevers
Fevers can be prevented if you take good care of hygiene. Hygiene is the key factor for many diseases. Therefore, take all necessary measures to keep you and your surroundings healthy.
What Is a Flu?
Contagious respiratory viral infections are termed as flu or influenza. These are not just some casual sneezes. The condition needs immediate attention. The common symptoms are headaches, muscle pain, and fatigue.
How Influenza Virus Enters the Body?
There are three types of flu viruses, Influenza virus A, B, and C. The main paths are the nose, eye, and mouth for a flu virus to enter the body. The mucous membrane in these parts is the best habitat for growing and easily entering the body. If you are suffering from flu, you should get yourself checked at any emergency room in 79605.
Common Symptoms of Flu
The common symptoms include
- Sneezes
- Stuffy nose
- Sometimes the patient feels cold as well
- Body pain
- An overall drowsy feeling
How to Find a Doctor and When to Visit?
Fever is a warning for you to visit a doctor. If the flu lasts longer than three days, you should go to a doctor. Maybe you have some other problems and the flu is a symptom. Sometimes the viral attack is severe and immediate professional help is mandatory.
Our doctors at Express ER can help you out. Our doctors are ENT specialists and are available at the emergency room in Abilene every time. The influenza virus can cause other serious problems if you let it stay in the body. Rush to the emergency room and get help from our doctors. We know how to make you feel better and prevent any other illnesses as well.
