Understanding Fever: When It Becomes Dangerous
A fever is the body’s natural response to infection or illness, typically caused by the release of cytokines that reset the body’s temperature set point. While fevers are often a sign that the immune system is working, they can become concerning when they reach certain thresholds or are accompanied by severe symptoms. Understanding when a fever crosses into dangerous territory is critical for timely medical intervention.
What Constitutes a Fever?
Normal body temperature ranges between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C) for adults and slightly lower for children. A fever is generally defined as a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). However, the danger level depends on factors like age,
