Isabella Carter
A fever is a rise in body temperature above the normal range. Fevers can be categorised as low-grade, regular, or high-grade depending on the specific temperature. Low-grade fevers are usually a sign that the immune system has been mildly activated to fight an infection or illness. There is no standard temperature range for a low-grade fever, but it is generally considered to be between 99.5°F (37.5°C) and 100.3°F (38.3°C). Low-grade fevers can be caused by a variety of factors, including inflammation, chronic diseases, allergies, and viral infections such as colds and flus. They can also be a symptom of certain types of cancers. While low-grade fevers in adults usually don't require treatment, it is important to monitor them and seek medical attention if they persist or are accompanied by other severe symptoms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Body temperature range | 99.5–100.3 °F (37.5–38.3 °C) |
| Normal body temperature | 98.6 °F (37 °C) |
| Body temperature when feverish | 99.1 °F or higher |
| Oral temperature for high-grade fever | 102.4–105.8 °F (39.1–41 °C) |
| Temperature requiring medical attention | 104 °F (40 °C) |
| Temperature for low-grade fever in infants | 100.4–102.2 °F |
| Symptoms | Chills, feeling cold, shivering, shaking, body aches, headaches, fatigue, sweating, flushed complexion, faster heart rate, lack of appetite, earache, high-pitched crying, paleness, excessive thirst, decreased urination |
| Treatment | Rest, drink fluids, wear light clothing, take lukewarm baths, over-the-counter medication |
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What You'll Learn
Low-grade fever temperature range
A fever is when your body temperature rises higher than normal. Normal body temperature is approximately 98.6°F (37°C), but it can vary during the day due to metabolic changes, sleep and waking cycles, hormones, and activity levels. Our bodies tend to hover between 97 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit.
There is no standard low-grade fever range, but many healthcare providers consider a body temperature between 99.5°F (37.5°C) and 100.3°F (37.9°C) to be a low-grade fever. A low-grade fever means a body temperature slightly above normal. This type of fever can be a sign that your immune system has been mildly activated. Low-grade fevers can occur for several reasons and may be accompanied by other symptoms. For example, colds and flus are major contributors to low-grade fevers.
In adults, fevers under 103°F (39.4°C) typically aren't dangerous and aren't a cause for concern. If your fever rises above that level, you should call your healthcare provider for treatment. A high-grade fever is usually defined as an oral temperature of 102.4°F to 105.8°F (39.1°C to 41°C) in adults.
If you have a low-grade fever, there are several things you can do to make yourself feel better. You can take over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil/Motrin (ibuprofen) to reduce fever and treat associated symptoms such as body aches. You should also get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, wear light clothing, and take lukewarm baths.
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Low-grade fever causes
A low-grade fever is a body temperature that is slightly above normal, typically between 98.7°F and 100.4°F (37.05°C and 38.0°C). While low-grade fevers are not usually a cause for concern and often resolve without treatment, they can sometimes indicate an underlying condition. Here are some potential causes of low-grade fevers:
Infections
Infections are the most common cause of low-grade fevers. These can be bacterial or viral and include common illnesses such as the cold, influenza (flu), COVID-19, gastrointestinal infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Viral infections like the common cold are particularly known to cause low-grade fevers that can last several days. Fevers due to viral infections usually resolve on their own and can be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
Inflammation and Chronic Diseases
Inflammatory conditions and chronic diseases can also trigger low-grade fevers. These include connective tissue disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus.
Medications
Certain medications and drugs, including antihistamines, antibiotics, seizure medications, and illegal drugs like cocaine, can cause low-grade fevers. This is sometimes referred to as drug fever and typically occurs about 7 to 10 days after starting a new medication.
Stress and Allergies
Stress and allergies can also contribute to low-grade fevers.
Other Medical Conditions
Low-grade fevers can be associated with other medical conditions, such as thyroid issues, autoimmune diseases, and, in rare cases, cancer.
It is important to note that there is individual variation in normal body temperature, and factors such as the time of day, menstrual cycle, and physical activity can influence body temperature. If a low-grade fever persists for an extended period or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.
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Low-grade fever symptoms
A fever is when your body temperature rises higher than normal. Body temperatures vary from person to person and at different times of the day. The average body temperature has traditionally been defined as 98.6°F (37°C).
There is no standard range for low-grade fevers, but healthcare providers often consider a body temperature between 99.5°F (37.5°C) and 100.3°F (37.9°C) to be a low-grade fever. A low-grade fever can be a sign that your immune system has been mildly activated. It can occur for several reasons and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
- Chills, feeling cold, shivering and shaking
- Body aches and headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Sweating
- Flushed complexion or hot skin
- Faster heart rate
Low-grade fevers can be caused by:
- Infections: Most fevers are caused by infections, which can originate from bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
- Inflammation: Inflammatory causes include a broad range of triggers that promote an immune system reaction.
- Chronic diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus can cause low-grade fevers.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions can sometimes trigger a low-grade fever.
- Medication: Certain medications and drugs, such as antihistamines, antibiotics, and illegal drugs, can cause low-grade fevers.
If you are experiencing a low-grade fever, you can try the following:
- Get plenty of rest: Allow your body to rest and relax.
- Home remedies: Consuming garlic and ginger may provide natural relief from symptoms.
- Over-the-counter medications: Medications such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) may relieve low-grade fever symptoms.
However, if your low-grade fever is accompanied by severe symptoms, such as a severe headache, stiff neck, shortness of breath, or confusion, seek medical attention.
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When to seek medical attention
A low-grade fever in adults is typically defined as a body temperature between 99.5°F (37.5°C) and 100.3°F (37.9°C to 38.3°C). Fevers are usually harmless and often signify that the body is fighting off an infection. However, there are certain instances when you should seek medical attention:
- If your fever is 103°F (39.4°C) or higher: Fevers below 104°F (40°C) are generally not harmful and usually don't warrant medical attention. However, if your fever rises above 103°F (39.4°C), it's recommended to contact your healthcare provider.
- If your fever lasts for more than three days: Most fevers resolve within a few days. If your low-grade fever persists for more than three days, it's advisable to consult a doctor.
- If your fever is accompanied by additional symptoms: Certain symptoms, when occurring alongside a fever, warrant immediate medical attention. These include severe headache, stiff neck, shortness of breath, chest pain, rash, throat swelling, confusion, vomiting, or unusual signs or symptoms.
- If your fever doesn't respond to medication: If your low-grade fever persists despite taking fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen, it's recommended to seek medical advice.
- If you have a young infant: In the case of infants, even a low-grade fever may indicate a serious infection. If your baby is under three months old and has any fever, contact your pediatrician. For older infants, seek medical advice if they have a fever above 102°F (38.9°C) or if the fever lasts continuously for more than three days.
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Low-grade fever treatment
A low-grade fever is usually a sign that the body's immune system has been mildly activated to fight off an infection. Fevers can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, such as colds, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, or COVID-19. They can also be caused by certain medications, chronic stress, or, in rare cases, cancer.
Low-grade fevers are typically not dangerous and will often go away on their own. However, if you are feeling uncomfortable, there are several things you can do to treat a low-grade fever and its symptoms:
- Place a cold, damp washcloth on your forehead or the back of your neck while you rest.
- Take a bath in lukewarm or cool water.
- Wear minimal clothing.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Take over-the-counter medication to treat the symptoms associated with your fever. Many over-the-counter cold and flu medicines treat multiple symptoms. Look for medicines that contain acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen, which can help reduce a fever.
If your fever is accompanied by any unusual signs or symptoms, such as a severe headache, stiff neck, or shortness of breath, confusion, or the inability to eat or drink without vomiting, contact your doctor.
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Frequently asked questions
A fever is when your body temperature rises higher than normal.
A low-grade fever in adults is a body temperature between 99.5°F (37.5°C) and 100.3°F (37.9°C). However, there is no standard range for low-grade fevers, and healthcare providers often consider 100.4°F (38°C) as a fever.
Symptoms of a low-grade fever include chills, feeling cold, shivering, body aches, headaches, fatigue, sweating, flushed skin, and a faster heartbeat.
To treat a low-grade fever, get plenty of rest, drink fluids, wear light clothing, and take lukewarm baths. Over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) can also help reduce fever symptoms.
