FEVER

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR FEVER

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

Difficult to awaken or acting confused
Very weak (can't stand)
Severe difficulty breathing (e.g. struggling for each breath, unable to speak)
Lips or face are bluish now
Rash with purple (blood-colored) spots or dots

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

You feel weak or very sick
Fever of 103 F (39.4 C) or higher
Fever of 100.5 F (38.1 C) or higher and you
- Are over 60 years of age
- Have diabetes mellitus or a weakened immune system (e.g. HIV positive, cancer chemotherapy, chronic steroid treatment, splenectomy)
- Are bedridden (e.g. nursing home patient, stroke, chronic illness, recovering from surgery)
- Are a transplant patient (e.g. liver, heart, lung, kidney)
Headache and stiff neck (can't touch chin to chest)
Difficulty breathing
Signs of dehydration (e.g. no urine in more than 12 hours, very dry mouth, lightheaded, etc.)
Have an intravenous catheter (e.g. central line, PICC, or peripheral intravenous line)

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

You think you need to be seen
Fever of 100.5 F (38.1 C) or higher and you have traveled to a foreign country in the last month
Fever lasts longer than 3 days (72 hours)

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home If

Fever with no signs of serious infection and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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