Causes of periodic or constant slight increase in body temperature. Increased body temperature

Heat- a typical symptom in many diseases. It is by focusing on the temperature that we often determine whether a person is sick or not. But this is not entirely correct, because temperature is only a manifestation of the disease, and not the disease itself. Therefore, to bring down the temperature does not mean to recover. It is necessary not only to fight high fever, but to determine which disease caused it, and treat it. And for this you need to see a doctor.

Signs of high fever

The following signs (symptoms) may indicate that the temperature is rising:

  • suddenly piled on fatigue, general morbid condition;
  • chills (mild chills at slightly elevated temperatures and severe chills at high temperatures);
  • dry skin and lips;
  • , body aches;
  • loss of appetite;
  • sweating (“throws into sweat”);

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to get yourself a thermometer.

What is high temperature?

The normal temperature is usually considered to be 36.6°C. But in fact, normal is the temperature in a fairly wide range.

During the day, body temperature fluctuates quite a lot. The lowest temperature is observed in the morning, immediately after waking up; maximum - in the evening, at the end of the day. The difference can be somewhere around 0.5°C. Physical activity, stress, ordinary food intake, drinking alcohol, staying in a bathhouse or on the beach can raise the temperature. In women, temperature fluctuations are also associated with ovulation. A few days before ovulation, the temperature decreases, and when ovulation occurs, it increases.

On average, a temperature between 35° and 37°C is considered normal. In children under the age of 3 years, a temperature of up to 37.5 ° C is also considered a normal variant. It matters where you measure the temperature. You can focus on 36.6 ° C if you put a thermometer under your arm. If the thermometer is held in the mouth ( oral temperature), then the normal temperature is 0.5°C higher (36.8-37.3°C). In order to obtain normal values ​​when measuring the temperature in the rectum ( rectal temperature), it will be necessary to add another half a degree (the norm is 37.3-37.7 ° C). Based on the measurement of temperature under the arm, an elevated temperature is a temperature in the range of 37-38°C, a high temperature is above 38°C.

Causes anxiety or a temperature that has risen above 38°C, or a temperature of up to 38°C that persists for a long time ( subfebrile temperature).

When is fever dangerous?

High body temperature is an undoubted sign that some pathological process is developing in the body, usually of an inflammatory nature. The higher the temperature, the faster it rises, or the longer it lasts, the more serious the problem that caused it may be. That is why high temperatures are scary.

Meanwhile, in itself, an increase in temperature in most cases is a protective reaction to the penetration of infection. At high temperatures, the activity of pathogens decreases, and the body's defenses, on the contrary, are intensified: metabolism and blood circulation are accelerated, antibodies are released faster. But this increases the load on many organs and systems: cardiovascular, respiratory. High temperature depresses the nervous system, leads to dehydration. Perhaps the occurrence of circulatory disorders in the internal organs (due to an increase in viscosity and blood clotting). Therefore, a high temperature that persists for a long time can be dangerous in itself. Extremely high temperatures (above 41°C) are also dangerous.

Is it necessary to lower the temperature or not?

There is no need to rush to bring down the temperature. First of all, the patient must be examined by a doctor. You should follow the recommendations of the doctor: if he advises to bring down the temperature, then it is necessary to bring down. The doctor makes decisions based on the overall picture of the disease and assessment of the patient's condition, that is, recommendations are always individual.

However, if the patient is intolerant of fever and the temperature is high (39°C or higher), an antipyretic may be given, strictly following the instructions on the package. It is important to understand that you are fighting a symptom, not a disease.

The correct course of treatment involves establishing the cause of the high temperature and carrying out a set of measures aimed at treating the disease that caused its increase.

Causes of high temperature

Any inflammatory process can cause an increase in temperature. The nature of inflammation in this case can be different - bacterial, viral, fungal. In most cases, the temperature is in the nature of a concomitant symptom: for example, with otitis media, the ear hurts (“pulls”) and the temperature is elevated ...

Temperature is of particular concern when no other symptoms are present. The temperature against the background of the standard signs of SARS is common, but only one high temperature is frightening.

Diseases that may cause high fever without other symptoms:

    chronic diseases of the urinary system (chronic,), in women -. Along with subfebrile temperature, abdominal pain and urination disorders can be observed;

    chronic myocarditis and endocarditis. In this case, the usual symptom is pain in the region of the heart;

    autoimmune diseases (rheumatism, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.).

This, of course, is not a complete list of diseases that can cause fever.

High temperature in a child

The child will not say that he has a high temperature. Even already relatively large children, including students in primary school, as a rule, cannot correctly assess their well-being. Therefore, parents need to carefully monitor the condition of the child. An increase in temperature can be suspected by the following signs:

  • the child becomes suddenly lethargic or, conversely, restless and capricious;
  • he is tormented by thirst (all the time he asks for a drink);
  • mucous membranes become dry (dry lips, tongue);
  • a bright blush or, conversely, an unusual pallor;
  • eyes redden or sparkle;
  • the child is sweating;
  • heart rate and respiration increase. The normal heart rate is 100-130 beats per minute during sleep and 140-160 while awake. By two years, the frequency decreases to 100-140 beats per minute. The normal respiratory rate also depends on age, for a two-month-old child it is 35-48 breaths per minute, for the age of one to three 28-35 breaths.

You can measure body temperature in the armpit or inguinal cavity with a mercury thermometer (it most accurately shows the temperature), rectally - only electronic. Rectally, you can measure the temperature only in a small child (up to 4-5 months), older children resist the procedure, as it is unpleasant. For rectal temperature measurement, the tip of the thermometer is lubricated with baby cream, the child's legs rise, as if washing. The tip of the thermometer is inserted into the rectum to a depth of 2 cm.

It should not be forgotten that in children under one year old, a temperature of up to 37.5 ° C is considered normal, and even up to 3 years, such a temperature does not always mean that the child is sick. You can not measure the temperature when the child is very worried, crying, or he is heavily wrapped up - the temperature in these cases will be expectedly higher. A hot bath or too high a temperature in the room can also increase body temperature.

In young children, the temperature can rise up to 38.3°C for non-disease reasons such as:

  • overheating (due to excessive wrapping, exposure to direct sunlight or violation of the drinking regimen), especially under the age of 3 months;
  • cry;
  • (if the child pushes, the temperature may rise);
  • (one of the most common reasons).

If it does not seem that the temperature is caused by one of these reasons, it keeps and does not subside, or, moreover, it grows, you should immediately consult a doctor. If the temperature is above 38°C, you should always consult a doctor.

What to do with high temperature

While the temperature rises, the patient is chilled, he is cold. I want to dress as warmly as possible, wrap myself in a blanket, and this is natural. But as soon as the temperature rises and the patient becomes hot, care should be taken that there is no excessive overheating: it is necessary to change clothes (or change clothes for a sick child) in light cotton clothes. You can cover yourself with a sheet.

Bed rest is recommended, but if the child, despite the temperature, is active, he should not be forced into bed, although it should be kept from excessive activity, which can raise the temperature even more.

The air in the room where the patient is located should be fresh and cool. The room must be ventilated, removing the patient for the time of ventilation in another room.

At high temperatures, you need to drink more. You can drink a little, but constantly. Fruit drinks, compotes, diluted juices, tea with lemon, green tea are excellent.

Do not take a shower or bath. You can wipe yourself with room temperature water or vinegar (9% vinegar solution is diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 1). Wiping small children with vinegar is not recommended. Rubbing with cold water or alcohol can lead to an increase in fever.

Antipyretic drugs should be taken as prescribed by a doctor, strictly following the instructions.

In some cases, high temperature should call an ambulance:

  • if against the background of temperature it is observed;
  • if the temperature is accompanied by the appearance of a rash;
  • with febrile convulsions and other serious conditions;
  • if at a temperature above 38.5 ° C, lethargy, drowsiness are observed;
  • if the temperature continues to rise or does not subside, despite the antipyretic drugs taken;
  • at temperatures above 39.5°C.

Constantly elevated temperature is also called hyperthermia. It is an excessive reaction of the body to internal processes. It is noted in pathologies in any system or part of the body. If it does not subside for a long period, then it indicates serious problems in the body.

There are three types of fever:

  • low level - from 37.2 to 38 degrees
  • medium level - from 38 to 40 degrees
  • high level - from 40 degrees and more.

A fluctuation from 36.6 to 37.2 degrees is considered normal. Above 42.2 degrees usually causes loss of consciousness, and if held at a high level for an extended period, it provokes brain damage. According to the duration of the flow, the elevated temperature is divided into:

  1. recurrent
  2. permanent
  3. temporary
  4. intermittent.

Causes of constantly elevated temperature

Most often, hyperthermia causes chills, fever, body aches, increased sweating, and discomfort. May not be accompanied by a headache. Among the possible reasons for the constantly high temperature are noted:

  • immune system disorder
  • inflammatory processes
  • tumors
  • violation of thermoregulation
  • taking medications
  • some procedures
  • chronic infections
  • helminthic infestations
  • neuroses
  • chronic fatigue syndrome
  • autoimmune diseases
  • rheumatic diseases, etc.

immune disorders

With such dysfunctions, low hyperthermia is observed - in the range of 37.2-38 degrees. From time to time there can be drops and an average level. Along with the typical manifestations (loss of body weight, high fatigue), there is also increased sweating at night.

Inflammatory processes

The temperature jump can be sudden (with toxic shock) or gradual (with microplasma pneumonia). According to the degree of manifestation of hyperthermia in this case, it can be high or low. If the temperature increases against the background of a rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), confusion and shortness of breath, this may indicate a very dangerous syndrome - septic shock. It occurs with gram-negative bacteremia and peritonitis.

Tumors

In primary oncological tumors (as well as metastases), protracted periods of rather high body temperature are often noted. They have different properties. In acute leukemia, for example, low hyperthermia of slow progression occurs. Accompanied by bleeding and pallor of the skin. However, in certain cases (with the same disease), high temperature, on the contrary, gives a sharp jump.

Violation of thermoregulation

It is accompanied by a sudden rise in temperature up to 41.7 degrees. As a rule, it is noted with such dangerous ailments as malignant hyperthermia, thyrotoxic crisis, stroke, as well as damage to the central nervous system (central nervous system). Increased temperature (low and medium levels) is complemented by increased sweating.

Taking medications

In this situation, a constantly elevated temperature is due to sensitivity to antibiotics of the penicillin series, sulfonamides, antifungal agents and some other drugs. It also appears with chemotherapy and medications that provoke a strong sweating.

Procedures

Permanent intermittent hyperthermia is noted during postoperative rehabilitation. Usually it lasts almost the entire period of recovery of the body. It is provoked by interference with the natural structure of the body and is its protective reaction to the manipulations performed (tissue resection, suturing, etc.). Constantly high body temperature is also caused by radiological examination using contrast media.

Chronic infections

Latent infections are capable of producing prolonged and sustained hyperthermia. As a rule, fever is provoked by hepatitis viruses of several forms (TTV, E, B, D, C, G), salmonella, borrelia, toxoplasma, mycoplasmas, chlamydia, herpes virus (6, 2 and 1), Epstein-Barr, cytomegalovirus, streptococci, etc. It is very stable in chronic processes in the sinuses, tonsils and pharynx.

Worm infestations

chronic fatigue syndrome

This is one of the most common conditions of modern man. And at the same time, the syndrome with the longest persistent hyperthermia. Accompanied by nervous exhaustion, depression, muscle and joint pain, rapid fatigue.

Hyperthyroidism

If the thyroid gland starts to work too hard or is inflamed, it also provokes an increase in temperature for a sufficiently long period. In this case, the characteristic symptoms of gland dysfunction may be absent. Diseases are detected only by laboratory blood tests.

Autoimmune diseases

In this case, an increase in body temperature, which cannot be brought down for a long time, is caused by an attack by the immune system on body tissues. There are unmotivated weakness, weight loss and some other symptoms.

neuroses

They are a common cause of persistently elevated temperatures. associated with brain dysfunction. More precisely - the hypothalamus, which is the main temperature regulator. They also occur as a result of vegetative-vascular dystonia (as one of the factors of nervous conditions).

Rheumatic diseases

These diseases are often accompanied by unmotivated, at first glance, high temperature. They are noted in a large number of ailments of a rheumatic nature. The most problematic among them is lupus erythematosus.

We are accustomed to the fact that fever is one of the first signs of ill health, that the immune system has come to grips with some kind of disease. But sometimes it rises for no apparent reason. A slightly elevated body temperature does not decrease and sometimes even lasts for several days. Should I be worried about this? Perhaps treatment is needed. But, first of all, it is necessary to find out the reasons for its appearance, that is, to undergo a medical examination.

Since childhood, we know that the mark of 36.6 degrees Celsius is considered the norm for body temperature. But each organism is individual, and small deviations from this indicator are quite common.

Fever without symptoms is common in women and girls. During the period of ovulation - the maturation of the egg - it usually rises slightly, and with the onset of menstruation it returns to normal. This is a common condition for a woman of reproductive age.

Sometimes body temperature can simply change within one day. In the morning, after the body wakes up, the temperature will have a minimum mark, but during the day it may rise by a not very significant indicator.

What causes an elevated body temperature? The reasons are pretty simple. These are stress, eating, physical activity or lack of it, taking hot and alcoholic drinks, and much more.

And it should also be noted that there are people for whom a constant elevated body temperature is the norm. But here it is important to know that the temperature is slightly increased, approximately 37 - 37.3 C. Most often, this category includes young people with asthenic

Often, elevated body temperature, the causes of which are difficult to determine, also occurs in children of ten to fifteen years of age. This usually manifests itself in isolation, slowness, apathy, anxiety and irritability. Sometimes similar conditions occur in adults.

Such, at first glance, small changes in the body are very often not noticed. But if you notice that the mercury column of the thermometer is creeping over the coveted red bar of the norm, there is reason to think and see a doctor.

An elevated body temperature, the causes of which may indicate an inflammatory process, warns us of a disease that has arisen in our body. This is something like an alarm that raises the alarm in case of a certain threat. The reasons can be infection, post-viral stress, but the worst thing is when serious illnesses become the causes of fever. These can be metabolic disorders, and tuberculosis, and thyrotoxicosis, and iron deficiency anemia, and chronic infectious and autoimmune diseases. in this case, it is the correct reaction of the body, and only a doctor can determine its real cause. It is not recommended to shoot down 38, since with the help of its increase the body actively resists the disease.

And there is also a false elevated body temperature, the reasons for which can be explained quite simply: you measure the temperature incorrectly.

If you measure under your arm, the readings of the thermometer may not be entirely correct due to the abundance of sweating. It is also not worth measuring if you drank or ate something hot an hour ago. The basal temperature is usually 1 C higher than under the arm. Another thermometer will not show the true picture if you decide to measure it after playing sports, physical activity. The most accurate method is a procedure in which it is measured in the ear canal. But here you need accuracy in observing the rules and a special ear thermometer.

Now you know why a thermometer can show high numbers and make you think about your health once again, and this is never in vain.

Almost everyone has experienced a rise in temperature. But whenever the temperature rises, we are lost and do not know how to get rid of it. In this article, you will learn how to quickly lower the temperature.

Why is the temperature rising?

A high temperature is not a normal condition (except when a person overheats in the sun or is in a very hot and stuffy room). Therefore, its serious fluctuations should be treated with caution (serious means above 37.5 degrees, since for many people the “normal” temperature ranges from 36.6 to 37.5). The normal temperature is 36.6 degrees. But she can't stay at that level all the time.

For example, in girls and women, body temperature changes during periods of menstruation. And in the morning and evening on ordinary days, it makes a difference of 0.5 degrees. Also, "jumps" are due to stress, physical activity and other factors. In cases where elevated temperature is simultaneously accompanied by poor health, it is necessary to "sound the alarm." But first you need to understand the reasons for its increase.

Causes of high temperature

There may be several reasons:

    acute respiratory viral infection, accompanied by symptoms such as runny nose, cough, sore throat;

    intestinal infection and manifested with this nausea, vomiting;

    poisoning with toxic substances.

In addition to infections, causes may include:

  • congested kidneys,

  • thyroid problems,

    dystonia,

    rheumatism,

    chronic bronchitis and other chronic diseases accompanied by an increase in body temperature up to 38 degrees.

If the cause is found, then the temperature must be “knocked down”. If it is less than 38 degrees, you can cope without the help of drugs. How to do it?

High temperature can signal inflammation

How to lower the temperature?

If your temperature is not higher than 38 degrees, then the following tips will help:

    Prepare cranberry juice;

    Eat a couple of slices of lemon, orange or grapefruit.

In any case, do not forget to drink plenty of water.

If the body temperature has reached a mark higher than 38 degrees, then one cannot do without drugs. OTC drugs that have worked well include the following:

    Paracetamol in all its manifestations, which is part of many medicines; you will need about 15 mg / kg; it is good because it has a pronounced antipyretic effect;

    Ibuprofen also has both antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects; taken at 10mg/kg;

    Nise has a good anti-inflammatory effect, but not long-term;

    Analgin has a well-defined analgesic effect, but it is harmless only with short-term use.

Doses, indications and contraindications are written in the inserts, but it is best to first consult a doctor and not self-medicate with serious symptoms.

Folk methods of dealing with high temperatures

Folk remedies help no worse than pharmacy drugs, so you can use proven methods. So, what can help in such situations?

    Lemon. It can be eaten whole, or you can mix lemon juice with water.

    Carrots or carrot juice (at high temperatures - an analogue of lemon).

    Rubbing the body with alcohol, a solution of vinegar or vodka (this "arsenal" helps to reduce the temperature by several degrees, and, therefore, slightly improve the condition).

    Fresh strawberries.

    A mixture of apples, honey and onions, which is antipyretic - take it three times a day, one tablespoon.

    Blue honeysuckle or jam from it.

    Forest raspberry.

    Rosehip infusion.

    Tea with linden flowers.

    Cranberry juice.

    Red currant juice.

    Compress. It is easy to make: prepare a decoction of mint, soak towels or napkins in it, squeeze well so that they become damp, not wet, then lie down and apply them to your forehead, wrists, temples, inguinal folds. Change compresses every ten minutes.

Peppermint compress will help reduce the temperature

    Wrap. It is necessary to prepare an infusion of yarrow (pour two tablespoons of grass with water at room temperature and heat the broth in a water bath), then moisten a cloth or a large towel in it and wrap yourself up for a while.

    An enema is a radical and not the most pleasant method, but it helps a lot. Doctors do not recommend a simple water enema. Ordinary water does not remove toxins, with it they are absorbed into the large intestine. The best way is to prepare a decoction of chamomile or salt.

If you have no contraindications (hypertension, circulatory disorders, vascular disease), a relatively low temperature (up to 38 degrees), then you can take a bath or shower. Water should be at room temperature, so it will cleanse the skin of sweat, relax muscles and joints, and have a beneficial effect on the condition of the back and skin. The benefits of bathing or simply taking a shower are obvious. You should not be in the bathroom for a long time and carry out water procedures, preferably in the evening, before you go to bed.

If the temperature does not decrease within four days, then a visit to the doctor is mandatory. And also, if antipyretics do not help to reduce the temperature, if it is above 39 degrees, it is accompanied by abdominal pain, rash and dehydration.

Consequences of high temperature

As a rule, temperatures up to 38 degrees indicate that the body is trying to fight. And if the thermometer shows a much higher figure, then this is a bad sign. The fact that there is no benefit from the heat is obvious. So, high temperature contributes to the development of the following processes in the body:

    depression of the central nervous system,

    dehydration

    respiratory failure,

    circulatory disorders in the organs,

    lowering blood pressure.

Therefore, you need to try to help reduce the temperature. This does not have to be done with pills. It is enough just to drink a lot (plain water, cranberry juice) and, if possible, observe bed rest.

Temperature changes are a frequent companion of diseases. Why in most cases it is not necessary to bring down the temperature and how to remove the heat, if necessary?

What to do with elevated body temperature is one of the most common questions for therapists and pediatricians. Indeed, the heat often frightens patients. However, are elevated values ​​always a cause for panic? Under what conditions does the temperature stay, and under what diseases does it, on the contrary, fall? And when are antipyretics really needed? What temperature should be normal in children and the elderly? MedAboutMe dealt with these and many other issues.

body temperature in adults

Thermoregulation is responsible for human temperature - the ability of warm-blooded organisms to maintain a constant temperature, reduce or increase it if necessary. The hypothalamus is primarily responsible for these processes. However, today scientists are inclined to believe that it is wrong to determine a single center of thermoregulation, because many factors affect the temperature of the human body.

In childhood, the temperature changes under the slightest influence, while in adults (from 16-18 years old) it is quite stable. Although it also rarely stays on one indicator all day. Physiological changes are known that reflect circadian rhythms. For example, the difference between normal temperature in the morning and in the evening in a healthy person will be 0.5-1.0°C. With these rhythms, a characteristic increase in fever in the evening hours in a sick person is also associated.

The temperature can change under the influence of the external environment, increase with physical exertion, eating certain foods (especially often after spicy meals and overeating), with stress, fear, and even intense mental work.

What temperature should be normal

Everyone is well aware of the value of 36.6 ° C. However, what temperature should be normal in reality?

The figure of 36.6 ° C appeared as a result of research conducted by the German physician Karl Reinhold Wunderlich back in the middle of the 19th century. Then he made about 1 million temperature measurements in the armpit in 25 thousand patients. And the value of 36.6°C was just the average body temperature of a healthy person.

According to modern standards, the norm is not a specific figure, but a range from 36 ° C to 37.4 ° C. Moreover, doctors recommend periodically measuring the temperature in a healthy state in order to accurately know the individual values ​​​​of the norm. It should be borne in mind that with age, body temperature changes - in childhood it can be quite high, and in old age it drops. Therefore, an indicator of 36 ° C for an elderly person will be the norm, but for a child it can indicate hypothermia and a symptom of the disease.

It is also important to consider how the temperature is measured - the values ​​​​in the armpit, rectum or under the tongue can differ by 1-1.5 ° C.


The temperature is very dependent on hormonal activity and therefore it is not surprising that pregnant women often experience fever. Hot flashes during menopause and temperature fluctuations during menstruation are associated with hormonal changes.

It is very important for expectant mothers to carefully monitor their condition, while understanding that a slightly elevated or low temperature during pregnancy is the norm for most women. For example, if the values ​​​​do not exceed 37 ° C in the first weeks, and there are no other symptoms of malaise, then the condition can be explained by the activity of female sex hormones. Particularly progesterone.

And yet, if the temperature during pregnancy lasts for a long time, then even subfebrile indicators (37-38 ° C) should be a reason for consulting a doctor. With such a symptom, it is important to undergo examinations and take tests to exclude the presence of such infections - cytomegalovirus, tuberculosis, pyelonephritis, herpes, hepatitis and others.

Temperature during pregnancy can also be a sign of common seasonal SARS. In this case, it is very important not to self-medicate, but to consult a doctor. If the common cold is unlikely to pose a danger to the fetus, then the flu can lead to serious consequences, up to an early miscarriage. With influenza, the temperature rises to 39 ° C.

The child's temperature

The system of thermoregulation in children under 1 year of age has not yet been established, therefore the temperature in a child can change significantly under the slightest influence. This is especially true for babies in the first three months of life. Most often, parents are concerned about elevated values, however, the causes of a temperature of 37-38 ° C can be:

  • Too warm clothes.
  • Cry.
  • Laughter.
  • Eating, including breastfeeding.
  • Bathing in water above 34-36°C.

After sleep, the values ​​\u200b\u200bare usually lower, but with active games, the child's temperature rises quickly. Therefore, when taking measurements, it is necessary to take into account all external factors that could affect them.

At the same time, too high a temperature (38 ° C and above) can be dangerous for small children. To compensate for the heat, the body uses a lot of water and therefore dehydration is often observed. Moreover, in a child, this condition occurs faster than in an adult. Dehydration can pose a danger to health (often against its background there is a deterioration in the condition, subsequently complicated by pneumonia) and life (with severe dehydration, there may be loss of consciousness and even death).

In addition, some children under 5 years of age experience febrile convulsions - when the child's temperature rises to 38-39 ° C, involuntary muscle contractions begin, short-term fainting is possible. If at least once such a condition was observed, in the future, even with a slight heat, the baby needs to bring down the temperature.

Human temperature

Normally, a person's temperature is controlled by the endocrine system, in particular, the hypothalamus and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4, as well as the hormone TSH, which regulates their production). Thermoregulation is influenced by sex hormones. And yet, infections remain the main cause of fever, and too low a temperature in most cases is caused by overwork or a lack of vitamins, micro- and macroelements.


Man is a warm-blooded creature, which means that the body can maintain a stable temperature regardless of environmental factors. At the same time, in severe frost, the overall temperature drops, and in hot weather it can rise so much that a person will get heat stroke. This is due to the fact that our body is quite sensitive to thermal changes - changes of only 2-3 degrees of temperature significantly affect metabolic processes, hemodynamics and the transmission of impulses through nerve cells. As a result, pressure may increase, convulsions and confusion may occur. Frequent symptoms of low temperature are lethargy, at a value of 30-32 ° C there may be loss of consciousness; and high - delusional states.

Types of fever

For the vast majority of diseases that occur with an increase in temperature, certain ranges of values ​​are characteristic. Therefore, it is often enough for a doctor to make a diagnosis to know not the exact value, but the type of fever. In medicine, there are several types of them:

  • Subfebrile - from 37 ° C to 38 ° C.
  • Febrile - from 38°C to 39°C.
  • High - more than 39°C.
  • Dangerous for life - the line is 40.5-41 ° C.

Temperature values ​​are evaluated in combination with other symptoms, since the degree of fever does not always correspond to the severity of the disease. For example, subfebrile temperature is observed in such dangerous diseases as tuberculosis, viral hepatitis, pyelonephritis and others. A particularly alarming symptom is a condition in which the temperature is kept at 37-37.5 ° C for a long time. This may indicate disruption of the endocrine system and even malignant tumors.

fluctuations in normal body temperature

As already mentioned, the normal temperature in a healthy person can change throughout the day, as well as under the influence of certain factors (food, physical activity, and more). In this case, you need to remember what temperature should be at different ages:

  • Children under one year old - a temperature of 37-38 ° C can be considered the norm.
  • Up to 5 years - 36.6-37.5 ° C.
  • Adolescence - there may be strong fluctuations in temperature associated with the activity of sex hormones. The values ​​stabilize in girls at the age of 13-14, in boys differences can be observed up to 18 years.
  • Adults - 36-37.4 ° C.
  • Elderly people over 65 years old - up to 36.3 ° C. A temperature of 37°C can be considered a serious febrile condition.

In men, the average body temperature is lower on average by 0.5 ° C than in women.


There are several ways to measure body temperature. And in each case there will be their own norms of values. Among the most popular methods are:

  • Axillary (in the armpit).

In order to get accurate values, the skin must be dry, and the thermometer itself must be pressed tightly enough to the body. This method will require the most time (with a mercury thermometer - 7-10 minutes), since the skin itself must warm up. The norm of temperature degrees in the armpit is 36.2-36.9 ° C.

  • Rectally (in the rectum).

The method is most popular for young children, as one of the safest. For this method, it is better to use electronic thermometers with a soft tip, the measurement time is 1-1.5 minutes. The norm of values ​​​​is 36.8-37.6 ° C (on average, it differs by 1 ° C from axillary values).

  • Orally, sublingually (in the mouth, under the tongue).

In our country, the method is not widely used, although in Europe this is how the temperature in adults is most often measured. It takes from 1 to 5 minutes to measure, depending on the type of device. The temperature values ​​​​are normal - 36.6-37.2 ° C.

  • In the ear canal.

The method is used to measure the temperature of a child and requires a special type of thermometer (non-contact measurement), therefore it is not very common. In addition to determining the overall temperature, the method will also help in the diagnosis of otitis media. If there is inflammation, then in different ears the temperature will be very different.

  • Into the vagina.

It is most often used to determine basal temperature (the lowest body temperature that is recorded during rest). Measured after sleep, an increase of 0.5 ° C indicates the onset of ovulation.

Types of thermometers

Today in pharmacies you can find different types of thermometers for measuring a person's temperature. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages:

  • Mercury (maximum) thermometer.

It is considered one of the most accurate types and at the same time affordable. In addition, it is used in hospitals and clinics, as it is easily disinfected and can be used for a large number of people. Disadvantages include slow temperature measurement and brittleness. A broken thermometer is dangerous with poisonous mercury vapor. Therefore, for children today it is used quite rarely, they are not used for oral measurement.

  • Electronic (digital) thermometer.

The most popular type for home use. Quickly measures the temperature (from 30 seconds to 1.5 minutes), informs about the end with a sound signal. Electronic thermometers can be with soft tips (for rectal temperature measurement in a child) and hard (universal devices). If the thermometer is used rectally or orally, it must be individual - for one person only. The disadvantage of such a thermometer is often inaccurate values. Therefore, after purchase, you need to measure the temperature in a healthy state in order to know the possible error range.

  • Infrared thermometer.

Relatively new and expensive. Used to measure temperature in a non-contact way, for example, in the ear, forehead or temple. The speed of obtaining the result is 2-5 seconds. A slight error of 0.2-0.5°C is allowed. A significant drawback of the thermometer is its limited use - it is not used for measurements in the usual ways (axillary, rectal, oral). In addition, each model is designed for its own method (forehead, temple, ear) and cannot be used in other areas.

Relatively recently, thermal strips were popular - flexible films with crystals that change color at different temperatures. In order to get the result, it is enough to apply the strip to the forehead and wait for about 1 minute. This method of measurement does not determine the exact degrees of temperature, but only shows the values ​​\u200b\u200bof "low", "normal", "high". Therefore, it cannot replace full-fledged thermometers.


An increase in body temperature is well felt by a person. This condition is accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • Fatigue, general weakness.
  • Chills (the more fever, the more chills).
  • Headache.
  • Aches in the body, especially in the joints, muscles and fingers.
  • Feeling cold.
  • Sensation of heat in the region of the eyeballs.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Decreased or complete loss of appetite.
  • Rapid heartbeat, arrhythmias.
  • Sweating (if the body can regulate heat), dry skin (when the temperature rises).

Rose and white fever

High fever can manifest differently in children and adults. It is customary to distinguish two types of fever:

  • Pink (red).

It is named so for its characteristic features - red skin, especially pronounced blush on the cheeks and face as a whole. The most common type of fever, in which the body is able to provide optimal heat transfer - the superficial vessels expand (this is how the blood cools), sweating is activated (decrease in skin temperature). The patient's condition, as a rule, is stable, there are no significant violations of the general condition and well-being.

  • White.

A rather dangerous form of fever, in which failures of thermoregulatory processes occur in the body. The skin in this case is white, and sometimes even cool (especially cold hands and feet), while the measurement of rectal or oral temperature shows fever. A person is tormented by chills, the condition worsens significantly, fainting and confusion can be observed. White fever develops if there is a spasm of blood vessels under the skin, as a result of which the body cannot start the cooling mechanisms. The condition is dangerous in that the temperature rises significantly in vital organs (brain, heart, liver, kidneys, etc.) and can affect their functions.


Thermoregulation is provided by the endocrine system, which triggers various mechanisms to increase or decrease a person's temperature. And of course, violations in the production of hormones or the functioning of the glands lead to violations of thermoregulation. Such manifestations, as a rule, are stable, and the values ​​remain within the subfebrile range.

The main cause of elevated temperature are pyrogens, which can affect thermoregulation. Moreover, some of them are not introduced from the outside by pathogens, but are secreted by cells of the immune system. Such pyrogens are designed to increase the effectiveness of the fight against various health-threatening conditions. The temperature rises in such cases:

  • Infections - viruses, bacteria, protozoa and others.
  • Burns, injuries. As a rule, there is a local increase in temperature, but with a large area of ​​​​the lesion there may be a general fever.
  • Allergic reactions. In these cases, the immune system produces pyrogens to fight harmless substances.
  • shock states.

ARI and high fever

Seasonal respiratory diseases are the most common cause of fever. In this case, depending on the type of infection, its values ​​​​will be different.

  • With a standard cold or a mild form of ARVI, subfebrile temperature is observed, in addition, it rises gradually, on average over 6-12 hours. With proper treatment, the fever lasts no more than 4 days, after which it begins to subside or disappear altogether.
  • If the temperature rises sharply and exceeds 38 ° C, this may be a symptom of the flu. Unlike other acute respiratory viral infections, this disease requires mandatory monitoring by a local therapist or pediatrician.
  • If the fever resumed after the condition improved or did not go away on the 5th day from the onset of the disease, this most often indicates complications. A bacterial infection has joined the initial viral infection, the temperature is usually above 38°C. The condition requires an urgent call to the doctor, as the patient may need antibiotic therapy.


A temperature of 37-38 ° C is typical for such diseases:

  • SARS.
  • Exacerbations of chronic respiratory diseases. For example, bronchitis or bronchial asthma, tonsillitis.
  • Tuberculosis.
  • Chronic diseases of internal organs during an exacerbation: myocarditis, endocarditis (inflammation of the heart membranes), pyelonephritis and glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidneys).
  • Ulcer, colitis.
  • Viral hepatitis (usually hepatitis B and C).
  • Herpes in the acute stage.
  • Exacerbation of psoriasis.
  • Infection with toxoplasmosis.

This temperature is typical for the initial stage of thyroid dysfunction, with increased production of hormones (thyrotoxicosis). Hormonal disturbances during menopause can also cause mild fever. Subfebrile values ​​can be observed in people with helminthic invasion.

Diseases with a temperature of 39 ° C and above

High temperature accompanies diseases that cause severe intoxication of the body. Most often, values ​​​​within 39 ° C degrees indicate the development of an acute bacterial infection:

  • Angina.
  • Pneumonia.
  • Acute pyelonephritis.
  • Gastrointestinal diseases: salmonellosis, dysentery, cholera.
  • Sepsis.

At the same time, intense fever is also characteristic of other infections:

  • Flu.
  • Hemorrhagic fever, in which the kidneys are severely affected.
  • Chicken pox.
  • Measles.
  • Meningitis, encephalitis.
  • Viral hepatitis A.

Other causes of high fever

Violations of thermoregulation can be observed without visible diseases. Another dangerous reason that the temperature has risen is the inability of the body to provide adequate heat transfer. This happens, as a rule, with prolonged exposure to the sun in the hot season or in a too stuffy room. The temperature of the child may rise if he is dressed too warmly. The condition is dangerous with heatstroke, which can be fatal for people with heart and lung disease. With severe overheating, even in healthy people, organs, primarily the brain, suffer significantly. Also, fever for no apparent reason can manifest itself in emotional people during periods of stress and great excitement.


A low temperature is less common than a fever, but it can also indicate serious health problems. Indicators below 35.5 ° C for an adult are considered a sign of diseases and disorders of the body, and below 35 ° C in the elderly.

The following degrees of body temperature are considered life-threatening:

  • 32.2 ° C - a person will fall into a stupor, there is a strong lethargy.
  • 30-29°C - loss of consciousness.
  • Below 26.5 ° C - a fatal outcome is possible.

Low temperature is characterized by the following symptoms:

  • General weakness, malaise.
  • Drowsiness.
  • There may be irritability.
  • The extremities become cold, numbness of the fingers develops.
  • Attention disturbances and problems with thought processes are noticeable, the speed of reactions decreases.
  • General feeling of coldness, trembling in the body.

Causes of low temperature

Among the main reasons for low temperatures are the following:

  • General weakness of the body caused by external factors and living conditions.

Insufficient nutrition, lack of sleep, stress and emotional distress can affect thermoregulation.

  • Endocrine system disorders.

Associated, as a rule, with insufficient synthesis of hormones.

  • Hypothermia.

The most common cause of low temperature in humans. The condition is dangerous by a violation of metabolic processes and frostbite of the extremities only in the case of a strong drop in temperature. With a slight hypothermia, a person's local immunity decreases, so this or that infection often develops subsequently.

  • Weakened immune system.

It is observed during the recovery period, after operations, it can manifest itself against the background of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Also low temperature is typical for people with AIDS.


Hormones play an important role in the processes of thermoregulation. In particular, the thyroid hormones of the thyroid gland are thyroxine and triiodothyronine. With their increased synthesis, heat is often observed, but, on the contrary, it leads to a decrease in the overall temperature. In the initial stages, this is often the only symptom by which the development of the disease can be suspected.

A stable decrease in body temperature is also observed with adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease). Pathology develops slowly, may not show other signs for months or even several years.

Low hemoglobin in the blood

One of the most common causes of low temperature is iron deficiency anemia. It is characterized by a decrease in hemoglobin in the blood, and this in turn affects the functioning of the whole organism. Hemoglobin is responsible for the transport of oxygen to the cells, and if it is not enough, different degrees of hypoxia appear.

The person becomes lethargic, there is a general weakness, against which metabolic processes slow down. The low temperature is the result of these changes.

In addition, the level of hemoglobin can fall with various blood loss. In particular, anemia can develop in people with internal bleeding. If a significant blood loss occurs in a short period of time, the volume of circulating blood decreases, and this already affects heat transfer.

Other causes of low temperature

Among the dangerous conditions that require mandatory medical advice and treatment, one can single out such diseases with a low temperature:

  • Radiation sickness.
  • Severe intoxication.
  • AIDS.
  • Brain diseases, including tumors.
  • Shock of any etiology (with massive blood loss, allergic reactions, traumatic and toxic shock).

However, the most common causes of temperatures below 35.5 ° C are an unhealthy lifestyle and a lack of vitamins. So, nutrition remains an important factor, if it is not enough, then the processes in the body will slow down, and as a result, thermoregulation will be disturbed. Therefore, with various strict diets, especially with a poor diet (deficiency of iodine, vitamin C, iron), low temperature without other symptoms is very common. If a person consumes less than 1200 calories per day, this will definitely affect thermoregulation.

Another common cause of such a temperature is overwork, stress, lack of sleep. It is especially characteristic of chronic fatigue syndrome. The body goes into a sparing mode of functioning, metabolic processes slow down in the body and, of course, this affects heat transfer.


Since temperature is only a symptom of various disorders in the body, it is best to consider it in combination with other signs of illness. It is the general picture of a person’s condition that can tell what kind of disease develops and how dangerous it is.

An increase in temperature is often observed with various ailments. However, there are characteristic combinations of symptoms that appear in patients with specific diagnoses.

Temperature and pain

In the event that, with pain in the abdomen, the temperature is above 37.5 ° C, this may indicate serious violations of the gastrointestinal tract. In particular, this is observed with intestinal obstruction. In addition, a combination of symptoms is characteristic of the development of appendicitis. Therefore, if the pain is localized in the region of the right hypochondrium, it is difficult for a person to pull his legs to his chest, there is a loss of appetite and cold sweat, an ambulance should be called immediately. A complication of appendicitis, peritonitis, is also accompanied by persistent fever.

Other causes of a combination of abdominal pain and temperature:

  • Pyelonephritis.
  • Acute pancreatitis.
  • Bacterial bowel disease.

If the temperature rises against the background of pain in the head, this most often indicates a general intoxication of the body and is observed in such diseases:

  • Influenza and other SARS.
  • Angina, scarlet fever.
  • Encephalitis.
  • Meningitis.

Pain in the joints and muscles, discomfort in the eyeballs are symptoms of a temperature above 39 ° C. In such conditions, it is recommended to take an antipyretic.


An elevated temperature against the background of diarrhea is a clear sign of a bacterial infection of the gastrointestinal tract. Among intestinal infections with such symptoms:

  • Salmonellosis.
  • Cholera.
  • Botulism.
  • Dysentery.

The cause of the temperature against the background of diarrhea can also be severe food poisoning. The combination of such symptoms is very dangerous for health, so self-medication in such cases is unacceptable. It is urgent to call an ambulance and, if necessary, agree to hospitalization. This is especially true if the child is sick.

Temperature and diarrhea are factors that contribute to dehydration. And with their combination, fluid loss by the body can become critical in a fairly short period. Therefore, in the event that it is not possible to adequately compensate for the lack of fluid by drinking (for example, a person has vomiting or the diarrhea itself is pronounced), the patient is injected with solutions intravenously in a hospital. Without it, dehydration can lead to serious consequences, damage to organs and even death.

Temperature and nausea

In some cases, nausea may be due to fever. Due to intense heat, weakness develops, pressure decreases, dizziness occurs, and this is what causes slight nausea as a result. In this state, if the temperature is above 39 ° C, it must be brought down. The combination of symptoms may appear in the first days of the flu and be caused by severe intoxication of the body.

One of the causes of nausea and fever during pregnancy is toxicosis. But in this case, values ​​​​higher than subfebrile (up to 38 ° C) are rarely observed.

In the event that nausea is accompanied by other disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (for example, pain, diarrhea or, conversely, constipation), simply bringing down the temperature is not enough. This combination of symptoms can indicate serious diseases of the internal organs. Among them:

  • Viral hepatitis and other liver damage.
  • Acute appendicitis.
  • Peritonitis.
  • Inflammation of the kidneys.
  • Acute pancreatitis.
  • Intestinal obstruction (accompanied by constipation).

In addition, fever and nausea are often observed against the background of intoxication with stale food, alcohol or drugs. And one of the most dangerous diagnoses with these symptoms is meningitis. All of the listed diseases and conditions require a mandatory consultation with a doctor.

In the event that vomiting occurs against the background of temperature, it is very important to compensate for the loss of fluid. Children with this combination of symptoms are most often referred for inpatient treatment.


An increase in blood pressure is a common symptom of fever. Heat affects hemodynamics - patients have an increased heart rate, and blood begins to move faster through the vessels, they expand, and this can affect blood pressure. However, such changes cannot cause severe hypertension, more often the rates do not exceed 140/90 mm Hg. Art., observed in patients with a fever of 38.5 ° C and above, disappear as soon as the temperature stabilizes.

In some cases, a high temperature, on the contrary, is characterized by a decrease in pressure. There is no need to treat this condition, as the indicators return to normal after the fever subsides.

At the same time, for hypertensive patients, any, even a slight fever, can threaten with serious consequences. Therefore, they should consult with their doctor and, if necessary, take antipyretics already at rates of 37.5 ° C (especially when it comes to older people).

Pressure and temperature is a dangerous combination for patients with such diseases:

  • Cardiac ischemia. Cardiologists note that this combination of symptoms sometimes accompanies myocardial infarction. Moreover, in this case, the temperature rises slightly, may be within the framework of subfebrile indicators.
  • Heart failure.
  • Arrhythmias.
  • Atherosclerosis.
  • Diabetes.

In the event that low pressure and temperature in the subfebrile range last for a long time, this may be a sign of oncopathology. However, not all oncologists agree with this statement, and the symptoms themselves should simply become the reason for a full-fledged examination of a person.

Low pressure and low temperature are a common combination. Such symptoms are especially characteristic with low hemoglobin, chronic fatigue, blood loss, and nervous disorders.

Temperature without other symptoms

An increased or decreased temperature without symptoms characteristic of acute infections should be the reason for a mandatory medical examination. Violations can talk about such diseases:

  • Chronic pyelonephritis.
  • Tuberculosis.
  • Malignant and benign tumors.
  • Organ infarcts (tissue necrosis).
  • Blood diseases.
  • Thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism.
  • Allergic reactions.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis at an early stage.
  • Violations of the brain, in particular, the hypothalamus.
  • Mental disorders.

Temperature without other symptoms also occurs against the background of overwork, stress, after prolonged physical activity, overheating or hypothermia. But in these cases, the indicators stabilize. If we are talking about serious diseases, the temperature without symptoms will be quite stable, after normalization it will rise or fall again over time. Sometimes hypothermia or hyperemia is observed in a patient for several months.


An elevated temperature can cause significant discomfort, and in some cases even be life-threatening. Therefore, any person needs to know what to do with a fever and how to bring down the temperature correctly.

When to bring down the temperature

Not always, if the temperature has risen, it needs to be brought back to normal. The fact is that with infections and other lesions of the body, he himself begins to produce pyrogens, which cause fever. High temperature helps the immune system fight antigens, in particular:

  • The synthesis of interferon, a protein that protects cells from viruses, is activated.
  • The production of antibodies that destroy antigens is activated.
  • The process of phagocytosis is accelerated - the absorption of foreign bodies by phagocyte cells.
  • Reduced physical activity and appetite, which means that the body can spend more energy to fight infection.
  • Most bacteria and viruses thrive best at normal human temperatures. With its increase, some microorganisms die.

Therefore, before deciding to “bring down the temperature”, you need to remember that a fever helps the body recover. However, there are still situations in which the heat must be removed. Among them:

  • Temperature above 39°C.
  • Any temperature at which there is a serious deterioration in the condition - nausea, dizziness, and so on.
  • Febrile convulsions in children (any fever above 37 ° C is knocked down).
  • In the presence of concomitant neurological diagnoses.
  • People with diseases of the heart and blood vessels, with diabetes.

Air, humidity and other parameters in the room

There are many ways to lower the temperature. But the first task should always be to normalize the air parameters in the room where the patient is located. This is especially important for children of the first years of life, and critical for infants. The fact is that the child's sweating system is still poorly developed and therefore thermoregulation is carried out to a greater extent through breathing. The baby inhales cool air, which cools his lungs and the blood in them, and exhales warm air. In the event that the room is too warm, this process is inefficient.

The humidity in the room is also important. The fact is that the humidity of the exhaled air normally approaches 100%. At a temperature, breathing quickens and if the room is too dry, a person additionally loses water through breathing. In addition, the mucous membranes dry up, congestion develops in the bronchi and lungs.

Therefore, the ideal parameters in the room where the patient with fever is located are:

  • The air temperature is 19-22°C.
  • Humidity - 40-60%.


In the event that you need to quickly bring down the temperature, you can use antipyretics. They are taken symptomatically, which means that as soon as the symptom passes or becomes less pronounced, the medication is stopped. Drinking antipyretics throughout the disease for prevention is unacceptable.

One of the main conditions for the successful action of drugs in this group is drinking plenty of water.

The main antipyretics:

  • Paracetamol.

It is actively prescribed for adults and children, it is considered a first-line drug. However, recent studies, in particular those conducted by the American organization FDA, have shown that if the drug is taken uncontrolled, paracetamol can cause serious liver damage. Paracetamol helps well if the temperature does not exceed 38 ° C, but in extreme heat it may not work.

  • Ibuprofen.

One of the key non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for fever. Designed for adults and children.

  • Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid).

For a long time it was the main drug of the NSAID category, but over the past decades, its association with severe kidney and liver damage (with overdose) has been proven. Also, researchers believe that taking aspirin in children can cause the development of Reye's syndrome (pathogenic encephalopathy), so at the moment the drug is not used in pediatrics.

  • Nimesulide (nimesil, nise).

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent of the latest generation. Contraindicated in children.

  • Analgin.

Today it is practically not used as an antipyretic, but it can still relieve fever.


The temperature can also be brought down with the help of folk remedies. Among the most common and simple ways are decoctions of herbs and berries. Drinking plenty of fluids is always recommended when the temperature is high, as it helps to improve perspiration and reduces the risk of dehydration.

Among the most popular herbs and berries that are used for fever are:

  • Raspberries, including leaves.
  • Black currant.
  • Sea ​​buckthorn.
  • Cowberry.
  • Linden.
  • Chamomile.

To normalize the temperature, a hypertonic solution will also help. It is prepared from ordinary boiled water and salt - two teaspoons of salt are taken for 1 glass of liquid. Such a drink helps cells retain water and is great if the temperature manifests itself against the background of vomiting and diarrhea.

  • Newborns - no more than 30 ml.
  • From 6 months to 1 year - 100 ml.
  • Up to 3 years - 200 ml.
  • Up to 5 years - 300 ml.
  • Over 6 years old - 0.5 l.

Ice can also be used for fever symptoms. But it must be used very carefully, since a sharp cooling of the skin can lead to vasospasm and the development of white fever. Ice is placed in a bag or placed on a piece of cloth and only in this form is applied to the body. Wiping with a towel dipped in cold water can be a good alternative. In the event that it is not possible to bring down the temperature, antipyretics do not work, and folk remedies do not help, you need to urgently call an ambulance.

How to raise the temperature

If the body temperature drops below 35.5 ° C, a person feels weak and unwell, you can increase it in the following ways:

  • Warm plentiful drink. Well helps tea with honey, rosehip broth.
  • Liquid warm soups and broths.
  • Warm clothes.
  • Covering with several blankets, for greater effect, you can use a heating pad.
  • Hot bath. Can be supplemented with essential oils of coniferous trees (fir, spruce, pine).
  • Exercise stress. A few intense exercises will help improve circulation and increase body temperature.

If the temperature stays below 36°C for a long time, you should consult a doctor. And after finding out the cause of such a symptom, the specialist will prescribe the appropriate treatment.


In some cases, a high temperature can pose a serious threat to health, and then you simply cannot do without the help of doctors. An ambulance must be called in such cases:

  • Temperature 39.5°C or higher.
  • A sharp increase in temperature and the inability to bring it down with antipyretic and other methods.
  • Against the background of temperature, diarrhea or vomiting is observed.
  • Fever is accompanied by difficulty breathing.
  • There are severe pains in any part of the body.
  • There are signs of dehydration: dry mucous membranes, pallor, severe weakness, dark urine or no urination.
  • High blood pressure and temperature above 38°C.
  • The fever is accompanied by a rash. Especially dangerous is a red rash that does not disappear with pressure - a sign of a meningococcal infection.

Fever or a decrease in temperature is an important signal of the body about diseases. This symptom should always be given due attention and try to fully understand its causes, and not just eliminate it with the help of drugs and other methods. But at the same time, one should not forget that normal temperature is an individual concept and not everyone corresponds to the well-known indicator of 36.6 ° C.