Tips on how to spot the difference between just feeling a bit hot and having a fever, and what to do when the temperature rises.
- Normal body temperature is about 36 to 37 degrees C, so any temperature above that level is classed as a high temperature. But bear in mind that even when you’re healthy, your temperature will fluctuate by a small amount – it's probably not a sign of illness unless it’s reached 38.5 but anything over 37 degrees C should be monitored to see how it develops.
- If possible, take a reading from each of your family when they are healthy so you know what level is ‘normal’ – some people are naturally hotter than others. Also make sure you take the temperature the same way each time (eg stick to an ear thermometer if that’s what you usually use, and readings so you can compare like for like).
- Unless there are other symptoms of serious illness, one spike in the temperature may well pass and not be of great concern. Take two readings a couple of hours apart and see if the raised temperature is consistent. According to NHS Direct a fever in a child aged between 1 and 17 years would be a temperature reading over 38 degrees C. They also observe that a child may have a fever if they appear flushed, hot and sweaty.
- As the body fights off an infection, it generates heat – it’s a natural reaction, and at this level it’s not in itself dangerous. You can bring the temperature down with paracetamol or ibuprofen (check with your GP or the dispensing pharmacist if you are buying these to treat a child under one year old). But also do keep an eye on how your child does not only by taking a temperature check but also observing whether your child seems to be in pain, distress, or unable to eat or drink. If in doubt it is always safer to call your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
- There used to be all kinds of well-meaning but useless advice about high temperatures, so if your granny tells you to wrap the patient under bundles of extra blankets until he or she is sweltering, or to sponge the patient down with icy water, just ignore her! (You can cool things down gently by removing layers of clothes and a little bit of fresh air but sudden chilly blasts of cool air will be too extreme.)
- The most important thing is to stay at a comfortable temperature and drink plenty of water. Keep track of the temperature by taking it every few hours, especially if the person who’s ill is feeling worse. If there’s no improvement and you’re not sure what’s causing the temperature, seek medical advice.
- The same goes for a temperature that’s going up and up – if it hits 41 degrees you’ve got a serious fever on your hands and urgent treatment is needed.