What You Need to Know About Fevers This Cold and Flu Season
As fall arrives, so does cold and flu season, and with it, a rise in fevers and other common symptoms of seasonal illness. Fever is one of the body’s natural responses to infection, but not all fevers should be treated the same. So how do you know when a fever is serious enough to warrant a trip to the emergency room?
While the average body temperature hovers around 98.6°F, this can vary slightly from person to person. A fever simply means your temperature is higher than normal, but it’s not just about the number on the thermometer. When paired with certain symptoms, a fever may be a sign of something more serious.
When to Go to the ER for a Fever
If you or a loved one has a fever along with any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek emergency care right away.
- Fever over 103 degrees Fahrenheit
- Severe vomiting or signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dizziness, or reduced urination
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
- Trouble breathing
- Severe pain
- Fever lasts more than three days
Common Fall Illnesses That May Be Accompanied by a Fever
During the fall and winter months, several illnesses that cause fever become more common. Some of these can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly, especially in young children, older adults, or individuals with underlying health conditions, such as:
- Flu
- RSV
- COVID-19
- Other viral infections
- Common Cold
- Stomach bug
When you’re experiencing multiple symptoms, getting an expert diagnosis can be key to receiving prompt and effective treatment.
Jacksonville ER & Hospital Is Opening Soon
Jacksonville families will soon have another option when emergency care is needed. Jacksonville ER & Hospital is opening soon, bringing 24/7 emergency care and hospital services to the community in a convenient, patient-focused setting.
Our facility will feature on-site laboratory testing, advanced imaging services including X-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound, as well as a surgical suite, allowing our clinical team to evaluate and treat a wide range of emergency and hospital care needs.
Follow Jacksonville ER & Hospital for opening announcements, facility updates, and information about the emergency and hospital services that will soon be available to our community.
Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Jacksonville ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
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