Serving the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire of Georgia and South Carolina.
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Shivering, sweating, achy muscles, a throbbing head, and crankiness—sound familiar? These are common signs of a fever, along with a body temperature higher than usual.
While fevers aren’t fun, they are a natural and important part of the body’s defense system. Fevers are common in both children and adults, and most are not dangerous on their own.
In fact, they play a helpful role by activating the immune system and making it harder for viruses or bacteria to survive. Understanding some basic facts about fevers can help you manage them confidently at home.
A normal body temperature is about 98.6°F. When your body’s temperature rises temporarily to fight illness, that’s a fever—defined as 100.4°F or higher.
Temperature can be measured with either an oral, rectal, forehead, or ear thermometer. Rectal thermometers are most accurate for infants and young toddlers.
Fever often comes with other signs such as flushed cheeks, hot skin, fast heartbeat, irritability, poor appetite, and tiredness.
Infections are the most common culprit. A fever is evidence your body is attempting to squash the bacteria or virus that is at the root of the infection. And thank goodness for that. When a fever takes place, it not only makes it difficult for the virus or bacteria to survive, it activates your immune system in the process.
In children, fevers are most often caused by viruses. A fever signals that the body is fighting infection: it creates an environment where germs struggle to survive while activating the immune system to respond more effectively.
For adults, generally, fluids, rest, and supportive care are first line strategies for managing fever. When a fever rises above 101 degrees Fahrenheit, it can cause even more discomfort. Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin, can be used to break the fever.
For most children, fluids, rest, and supportive care are the first steps. If your child is irritable or uncomfortable, age-appropriate fever-reducing medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Always check with your pediatrician about safe dosing for your child’s age.
Anytime is a good time to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you’re feeling uncomfortable, your temperature spikes rapidly, or home remedies aren’t providing relief. However, if a fever rises above 103 degrees Fahrenheit in adults, or it lasts more than 72 hours, you should contact or visit a provider immediately.
In pediatrics, we often say, “treat the patient, not the number.” Rather than focusing on the thermometer, pay attention to how your child is acting. Encourage plenty of fluids and rest, and give fever-reducing medicine as needed. If symptoms persist despite home care, or if you’re concerned at any time, please contact your pediatrician.
Some situations always require prompt medical evaluation:
Seek Emergency Care Immediately if your child experiences: continuous crying, trouble breathing, stiff neck, severe abdominal pain, decreased urination, drooling, rash, swelling or redness, or any other severe symptoms.
Are you experiencing a sudden temperature spike or a fever that won’t go away? SouthCoast Health primary care providers and pediatricians are available and ready to diagnose the cause and provide the best possible treatment as quickly as possible. To discuss any fever-related concerns you may have, schedule an appointment online.
Whether you are looking for a primary care doctor or a pediatrician, or another medical specialist, SouthCoast Health has you covered with its wide range of world-class healthcare services, available throughout the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry. SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 16 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hilton Head, Hinesville, and Statesboro. SouthCoast Health offers comprehensive medical services including: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Allergy and Asthma, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Eye Care, Imaging, Infectious Diseases, Nephrology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Surgery, Clinical Trial Research Studies, Diabetic Self-Management Training Sessions, Dietetic Counseling, Laboratory Services, Massage Therapy, Optical Shop, Pharmacy, and Urgent Care.
SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hinesville, and Statesboro.
