elevatedtemperature

Elevated temperature, commonly referred to as fever in medical contexts, refers to a core body temperature higher than the normal range. Normal body temperature varies by individual and time of day, typically about 36.5–37.5°C (97.7–99.5°F). Fever is generally defined as a sustained temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) measured orally or rectally, with slightly different cutoffs for other measurement sites.

Causes include infections (viral or bacterial), inflammatory or autoimmune conditions, heat exposure, certain medications, and malignancies. Fever often presents with symptoms such as sweating, shivering, malaise, headache, or muscle aches. It is important to distinguish fever, caused by a rise in the body's temperature set point, from hyperthermia, where body temperature rises due to environmental heat without a change in set point.

Assessment relies on history, examination, and sometimes laboratory tests to identify infection or inflammation. Most mild fevers in healthy adults resolve without targeted treatment. Persistent fever, high fever, or fever with severe symptoms warrants medical evaluation. Infants, young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals may require closer monitoring.

Management aims to alleviate discomfort and address the underlying cause. Treatments include rest, fluids, and antipyretics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen when appropriate. Avoid certain medications in children without medical advice. Seek care for fever in infants under three months, fever lasting more than a few days, or if accompanied by chest pain, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, or signs of dehydration.

Nonmedical uses: elevated temperature also describes environments, materials, or equipment with temperatures above a safe or design threshold, which can affect performance and safety and may require cooling or insulation.