A fever indicates an elevated body temperature, often signaling that the body is actively fighting an infection or illness. While a fever is a common symptom and frequently resolves on its own, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Understanding when a fever requires a visit to the emergency room is important for ensuring timely and appropriate care.
Fever in Infants and Young Children
Fevers in very young infants require careful consideration and prompt medical evaluation. For newborns less than 3 months old, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher requires an immediate emergency room visit. Even a low-grade fever can indicate a serious infection in this age group, as their immune systems are still developing.
For infants aged 3 to 6 months, a rectal temperature exceeding 102°F (38.9°C) warrants medical advice. Seek medical attention if an infant in this age range has a lower temperature but appears irritable, sluggish, or uncomfortable. Babies between 6 months and 2 years old with a rectal temperature above 102°F (38.9°C) that persists for over a day without other symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.
Fever in Adults and Older Children
For adults and older children (2 years and above), a fever is an oral temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. For healthy adults, the specific temperature is often less concerning than accompanying symptoms, with a fever becoming concerning at or above 103°F (39.4°C).
Individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions should seek medical attention for fevers even at lower thresholds. For example, an immunocompromised adult or someone over 65 years old with a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher should contact their doctor. These individuals may have a reduced ability to fight off infections, making prompt evaluation and treatment important.
Concerning Symptoms Requiring Immediate Care
Regardless of age or temperature, certain symptoms accompanying a fever signal a need for immediate medical attention. A severe headache, especially with a stiff neck or pain when bending the head forward, can indicate conditions like meningitis. Confusion, strange behavior, altered speech, or difficulty waking up are serious indicators.
Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or rapid breathing should prompt immediate medical attention, as these can point to serious respiratory issues. Other symptoms requiring immediate medical evaluation include:
A rash, particularly if it appears as small bleeding spots under the skin that do not fade when pressed.
Persistent vomiting.
Severe abdominal pain.
Seizures or convulsions.
Painful urination.
When to Seek Non-Emergency Medical Advice
Not all fevers require an emergency room visit. If an adult’s fever is below 103°F (39.4°C) and they are otherwise healthy and alert, home care and monitoring may be sufficient. However, if a fever persists for over three days without improvement, or if it goes away and then returns, contact a primary care doctor or visit an urgent care clinic.
For children under two years old, a fever lasting over 24 hours should prompt a doctor’s visit. Urgent care centers handle medical problems needing prompt attention but are not life-threatening, such as fevers with cold symptoms, suspected ear infections, or sore throats. These facilities offer a suitable alternative when a primary care physician is unavailable for conditions that do not pose an immediate threat.