how many days fever is normal - #20418
I am really confused about what’s going on with me right now. Last week, I came down with a fever that hit 102°F. At first, I thought maybe it was just a mild virus or something, but it's now been five days, and I'm still running a low-grade fever. I mean, I feel exhausted and achy, but it’s not unbearable or anything. I’ve been drinking fluids and taking over-the-counter meds to keep it down, but it just won't go away!! I’ve read conflicting stuff online about how many days fever is normal, and it's making me anxious. Like, is it normal for a fever to last this long? My friend said her daughter had a fever for a week once, and they thought it was just a bad cold, but should I be worried? What if this is something more serious? I don't have any rash or severe symptoms, just this pesky fever. Should I wait it out a bit longer or see a doctor? I just want to know how many days fever is normal vs when I need to take action. This is messing with my work and life!
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Doctors' responses
A fever that persists for more than a few days can certainly be concerning, especially when it starts affecting your daily life. Generally speaking, a fever due to a common viral infection might typically last three to five days. However, if your fever has been going on for five days and isn’t showing signs of improvement, it might be a good idea to get it checked out by a doctor. Some viral illnesses can have fevers that last longer, but it’s important to rule out other causes like bacterial infections or other conditions that might require different treatment. Since you’re experiencing achiness and fatigue along with the fever, these are common symptoms of viral infections, but without any more severe symptoms like a rash or difficulty breathing, it doesn’t immediately point to something extremely urgent.
However, it’s essential to consider several factors: if the fever is consistently above 101°F, if you’re experiencing additional symptoms that worsen or new symptoms appear, or if your overall health is compromised, these are signs that a visit to the doctor is warranted. For self-care that you’re already doing—like staying hydrated, using over-the-counter fever reducers, and getting plenty of rest—are helpful, but they do not replace a medical evaluation if the fever continues. Also, keep an eye on symptoms that could indicate a more pressing issue, like severe headache, persistent vomiting, or confusion. Given your situation, consider scheduling a visit or reaching out to your healthcare provider. They might suggest further testing or examinations to get to the bottom of what’s going on, ensuring you can safely resume your usual activities without the fever hanging over you. If the fever persists or conditions worsen, do seek medical attention promptly to ensure your health and peace of mind.
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