Fever is a very common symptom related to many illness & diseases. Fever is considered when a body temperature at 6:00 am exceeds 37.2 degree Celsius(98.9 Degree F) or 4pm temperature of 37.7 degree celsius (99.9 Degree F).
Fever is an elevation of body temperature that exceeds the daily normal variation & occurs in conjunction with an increase in the hypothalamic set point.
In today’s health post we will be discussing various types of fever, their causes & Treatment.
Top Types of Fever
There are various types of fever depending upon the body temperature, severity & etiology. Below is the list of different types of fever & their description.
- Low-Grade Fever: A low-grade fever occurs when the body temperature falls between 99degF (37.2degC) and 100.4degF (38degC). This type of fever usually occurs due to minor infection such as a cold or flu.
- Acute Fever: An acute fever is a sudden rise in body temperature, usually above 101degF (38.3degC). This type of fever can be due to either a viral or bacterial infection, as well as be an adverse reaction to medication taken for another reason.
- Recurrent Fever: Recurrent fever is characterized by episodes of fever that come and go, typically lasting a few days each time. This type of fever can be caused by autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Prolonged Fever: This type of fever lasts for more than two weeks and can raise red flag for several conditions, such as tuberculosis, HIV, and cancer.
- Intermittent Fever: Intermittent fever is characterized by episodes of fever that come at regular intervals, usually every 24 to 48 hours. Malaria is the most common cause of this type of fever.
- Remittent Fever: It is a type of intermittent fever that comes and goes but never completely disappears. This condition can be caused by malaria, typhoid fever, or bacterial endocarditis.
- Dengue Fever: Dengue fever is an illness caused by the dengue virus and spread by Aedes mosquitoes. Symptoms of Dengue include sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, as well as rash.
- Typhoid Fever: Typhoid fever is a type of fever caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria and spread through contaminated food and water. Symptoms of typhoid fever are: an increasingly high fever, headache, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
- Malaria: Malaria is an illness caused by the Plasmodium parasite and transmitted through infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include frequent cycles of fever, chills, sweating as well as headache and muscle pain.
- Chikungunya Fever: Chikungunya disease is caused by the chikungunya virus and transmitted through mosquitoes. Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, joint pain and rash.
- Zika Fever: Zika fever is an infectious fever caused by the Zika virus and spread by mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis.
- Yellow Fever: Yellow fever is an infectious virus transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that causes sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle aches and jaundice.
- Drug-induced Fever: Fever is adverse effect of certain group of drugs. Usually, this type of fever goes away once the drug is discontinued; however, in some cases it may persist even after stopping treatment.
- Hectic Fever: Hectic fever is characterized by high body temperature spikes that happen at irregular intervals. This type of fever is often linked to serious infections like sepsis.
- Pel-Ebstein Fever: Pel-Ebstein fever is an illness associated with Hodgkin’s lymphoma that appears as episodes of intermittent periods of high fever and normal body temperature that last for one week.
- Neutropenic Fever: Neutropenic fever is a type of fever that occurs in some individuals when their neutrophil count decreases. Neutrophil is a type of white blood cell responsible for fighting infections in human body. It’s often observed among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
- Postoperative Fever: Postoperative fever is a type of fever that can develop after surgery due to various reasons, such as infections, inflammation and blood clots.
- Traveler’s Fever: Traveler’s fever is a type of fever that can strike those who have traveled to areas with a higher likelihood of contracting infectious diseases such as malaria, dengue fever or yellow fever.
- Brucellosis Fever: Brucellosis fever is an infectious fever that occurs due to Brucella bacteria, which can infect livestock and spread to humans through contact with contaminated animal products. Symptoms of Brucellosis include fluctuating fever, chills, and night sweats.
- Q Fever: Q fever is an illness caused by bacteria Coxiella burnetii that can be found in urine, feces, milk and reproductive organs of infected animals. Symptoms of Q fever include sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue.
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: Rocky Mountain spotted fever is an illness caused by Rickettsia bacteria. This bacteria is transmitted via tick bites. This disease is characterized by sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle aches and rash.
- Mediterranean Fever: Mediterranean fever is a type of fever characterized by frequent episodes of fever and inflammation that may cause abdominal pain, joint pain, and skin rashes. It’s thought to be caused by mutations in the MEFV gene.
- Rift Valley Fever: Rift Valley fever is a type of fever caused by the Rift Valley fever virus, which spreads via mosquito bites and can infect both animals and humans alike. Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle pain and eye redness.
- Ebola virus disease: Ebola virus disease is caused by the Ebola virus that spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms of this disease include sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle pain and severe bleeding.
- Lassa Fever: Lassa fever is an acute viral illness caused by contact with infected rodents or their bodily fluids, and is characterized by sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle aches and bleeding from various body parts.
- Japanese Encephalitis: Japanese encephalitis disease is caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus, which spreads via mosquito bites. Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache, neck stiffness and confusion.
- Cat Scratch Fever: Cat scratch fever is an infectious type of fever caused by Bartonella henselae bacteria, which can be spread to humans through cat scratches or bites. Signs of this disease include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and occasionally a skin rash.
- Mediterranean Spotted Fever: Mediterranean spotted fever is an illness caused by Rickettsia conorii bacteria and transmitted through tick bites. Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle pain and rash.
- Valley Fever: Valley fever, also known as Coccidioidomycosis, is an infection of the lungs caused by a fungal growth that often manifests with symptoms like fever, cough and chest pain. It’s commonly found in southwestern United States.
- Pontiac Fever: Pontiac fever is an illness caused by Legionella pneumophila bacteria found in water sources such as hot tubs, air conditioning units, and cooling towers. Symptoms include fever, headache and muscle aches.
- Tularemia: Tularemia is an infectious fever caused by Francisella tularensis bacteria that can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or bites from infected ticks or deer flies. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes and skin ulcers.
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Fever: CMV disease is an infectious viral disease caused by the cytomegalovirus and can affect people of all ages. Usually mild, CMV disease may present with fever, fatigue and other symptoms; however in rare cases it may become more serious.
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) Fever: EBV disease is an illness caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, a widespread virus which can lead to infectious mononucleosis. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and fatigue.
- Typhus Fever: Typhus fever is an infectious fever caused by Rickettsia typhi bacteria, transmitted through fleas or lice. Symptoms include fever, headache, rash and muscle aches.
- Colorado Tick Fever: Colorado tick fever is a type of fever caused by the Colorado tick fever virus and transmitted to humans through infected ticks. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever is an infectious fever caused by the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic virus, which can be transmitted to humans through infected ticks or contact with infected animal’s blood. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes bleeding disorders.
- Hantavirus Fever: Hantavirus fever is an illness caused by the hantavirus and spread to humans through contact with infected rodent urine or feces. Signs include fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes respiratory distress.
- Rheumatic Fever: Rheumatic fever is an infection of the throat that, left untreated, can cause fever, joint pain and sometimes a rash. Without treatment, this infection has the potential to lead to serious heart damage if left unchecked.
- Kawasaki Disease: Kawasaki disease typically affects children. While its cause remains unknown, it’s believed to have been caused by an infection. Symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes and occasionally redness around the eyes.
- Rat-bite Fever: Rat-bite fever is an infectious fever caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis bacteria that can be transmitted to humans through a bite or scratch from an infected rat. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Tick-borne Relapsing Fever: Tick-borne relapsing fever is an illness caused by Borrelia bacteria that is transmitted to humans through tick bites. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Paratyphoid Fever: Paratyphoid fever is an infectious type of fever caused by Salmonella paratyphi, which can be found in contaminated food or water sources. Symptoms include fever, abdominal pain and sometimes a rash.
- Haverhill Fever: Haverhill fever is an illness caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis bacteria that can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected rats, their urine or feces. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Australian Q Fever: Australian Q fever is a type of fever caused by Coxiella burnetii bacteria found in cattle, sheep and goats that can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or their products. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- St. Louis Encephalitis Fever: St. Louis encephalitis fever is an illness caused by the St. Louis encephalitis virus and transmitted to humans through infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Scrub Typhus Fever: Scrub typhus fever is an illness caused by the bacteria Orientia tsutsugamushi and transmitted to humans through the bite of infected chiggers. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Coxsackie Fever: Coxsackie fever is an illness caused by the Coxsackie virus and spread to humans through contaminated surfaces or contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, and sometimes rash or blisters on hands and feet.
- Oropouche Fever: Oropouche fever is an infectious type of fever caused by the Oropouche virus and spread by infected midges to humans. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Leptospirosis Fever: Leptospirosis fever is a type of fever caused by bacteria Leptospira, which can be found in contaminated water or soil. It spreads to humans through contact with infected animals or their urine and is typically characterized by fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Ques Fever: Ques fever is a type of fever caused by Coxiella burnetii bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected livestock. It’s most often observed among those working with animals and is characterized by fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
- Sandfly Fever: Sandfly fever is an infectious fever caused by the sandfly fever virus and spread by infected sandflies to humans. It tends to occur in hot climates, with symptoms including fever, headache, muscle pain and sometimes a rash.
Fever Treatment
Fever is usually not harmful unless it reaches a very high temperature, it is body’s natural response. Majority of times, fever will go away on its own within a few days. However, there are a few things you can do to help reduce fever and alleviate symptoms:
- Over-the-counter fever reducers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Paracetamol can help reduce fever and relieve pain.
- Increase oral fluid intake: Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, fruit juice, coconut water and broth, can reduce the severity of fever.
- Rest: Rest is very important for allowing body to heal and recover from illness.
- Use a cool compress: Applying a cool, damp washcloth to forehead, neck, and underarms can help reduce fever.
- Clothing: Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to help regulate body temperature and avoid overheating.
If the fever is very high or lasts longer than a few days, or it is associated with other symptoms such as severe headache, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, then seek immediate medical attention.
Fever Home Remedies
- Lukewarm Bath: Soaking in a lukewarm bath can help bring down a fever. Avoid cold baths or showers, as they can cause shivering and make your body temperature rise.
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help ease breathing and relieve congestion, which can be especially helpful if you have a fever and respiratory symptoms.
- Herbal Tea: Certain herbal teas, such as chamomile, ginger, and peppermint, can help soothe fever symptoms and promote relaxation.
- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate the body, which can make fever symptoms worse. Stick to water and other non-caffeinated beverages instead.
- Natural Remedies: Natural remedies, such as essential oils, garlic, and honey, can help relieve fever symptoms. However, it’s important to talk to healthcare provider before trying any new treatment.
Fever Medicine
There are several types of fever medicine available, including:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): This is a common over-the-counter fever reducer and pain reliever that can help lower fever and alleviate other symptoms such as headache and body aches.
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): This is another over-the-counter fever reducer and pain reliever that can help lower fever and alleviate symptoms. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Aspirin: This is an over-the-counter medication that can help lower fever and relieve pain, but it is not recommended for children under 18 years old due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
- Naproxen (Aleve): This is an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help lower fever and reduce pain and inflammation.
- Prescription fever reducers: There are also prescription medications available to help lower fever and relieve symptoms. Healthcare provider can advise you on the best option for your specific needs.
Important Note:- If the fever is high or last more than two days, please reach out to your health advisor to start the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the most common fever?
Ans. Most common fever are:-
Dengue
Typhoid
Chikungunya
Malaria
Acute Fever
Low Grade Fever
Intermittent Fever
Zika Fever
Yellow Fever
Recurrent Fever
Prolonged Fever
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Q2. Which fever is serious?
Ans. Fever itself is the symptoms of illness. If fever lasts more than two days or fever is very high, immediately seek the medical service.
Call 911 for the medical assistance or dial to your health care advisor to seek clinical advice.
Q3. What are the 10 causes of fever?
Ans. Fever can be caused of various reasons. Most common causes of fever are below:-
Infection
Exertional Heat Stroke:-
Non Exertional Heat Stroke
Colds or Flu
Ear Infection (Earaches)
Covid 19
Blood Clots in Body
Drug Abuse
Cancer
Urinary Infection
Read More about fever Causes
Q4. How many types are there in fever?
Ans. Depending upon the body temperature, severity or illness. There are many types of fever. Most common types of fever are below:-
Malaria
Acute Fever
Low Grade Fever
Intermittent Fever
Zika Fever
Yellow Fever
Recurrent Fever
Prolonged Fever
Dengue
Typhoid
Chikungunya
Covid 19 fever
Q5. What are the fever medicines?
Ans. It is advisable always to take fever medicines after consulting your Doctor/Physician. Most common used drugs/medicines for treating fever are below:-
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Aspirin
Naproxen (Aleve)
Prescription Fever Reducers:- They are available once you consult your health care advisor and depending upon severity they can prescribe the fever reducing drugs
Q6. How to treat fever?
Ans. Most of the times fever last only for two three days as fever is itself the symptom of illness. By using home remedies or taking common drugs for fever treatment can help to treat the fever in efficient way.
However if fever lasts more than two to three days or fever is high than immediately seek the medical assitance for treatment.
Q7. Fever home remedies?
Ans. Taking bath in Lukewarm Bath:
Use a humidifier
Drink Herbal Tea
Avoid consumption of Caffeine and Alcohol
Q8. How to treat fever at home?
Ans. Only low grade fever can be treated at home. High fever or if fever lasts more the two days, you should always seek a medical advice from your healthcare expert.
Below are the some home remedies for treating fever at home:-
Taking bath in Lukewarm Bath:
Use a humidifier
Drink Herbal Tea
Avoid consumption of Caffeine and Alcohol
Taking common drugs like Paracetamol
Q9. What are the 5 types of fever?
Ans. There are several types of fever, Most common are:-
Malaria
Acute Fever
Low Grade Fever
Intermittent Fever
Zika Fever
Yellow Fever
Recurrent Fever
Prolonged Fever
Q10. What is viral fever?
Ans. A fever which is caused by any viral disease or flu is known as Viral fever.
Fever caused by seasonal changes or any infection in the body/envirenment is considered as Viral fever.