Fever

Alternate Names : Pyrexia, Elevated Body Temperature

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Generally, nothing can be done to prevent fever. A person can get a fever by being in a hot environment for too long and not drinking enough fluids. It is important to avoid being in the heat for too long, and follow sports safety principles in summer . It is also important to drink more fluids than usual when it is very hot outside.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Mild or moderate fever generally has no long-term effects. The dehydration caused by fever can be avoided by drinking extra fluids. Fevers greater than 106 degrees F can sometimes result in brain damage or death if the fever is not treated within several hours.

What are the risks to others?

A person with a fever may have an infection that is contagious. If other conditions are causing the fever, there are no risks to others.