Fever of 100°F or Higher: When to See a Doctor - Symptoms & Advice

A fever is the body's natural response to infection. In most cases, a fever does not require medical attention and can be managed at home. However, if your fever is 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, you should contact a doctor for evaluation.

A high fever can be dangerous, especially in young children and the elderly. If you have a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, you should watch for the following symptoms:

- Severe headache

- Stiff neck

- Confusion

- Drowsiness

- Seizures

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

If you experience any of these symptoms in addition to a high fever, you should seek medical attention immediately.

There are a few things you can do at home to help reduce a high fever:

- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Follow the directions on the package carefully.

- Drink plenty of fluids. Fluids help to replace water that is lost through sweating and evaporation.

- Get plenty of rest. Resting can help your body fight the infection.

- Cool your body down. You can do this by taking a bath or shower in lukewarm water, applying cold compresses to your forehead and neck, or using a fan or air conditioner.

If your fever does not improve after 24 hours, or if it worsens, you should contact a doctor.