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When is Body Temperature Too High

Medically referred to as pyrexia, a fever refers to temperature that is above 37C (98.6F), which is the generally accepted normal human body temperature. A slight increase in the temperature is not really a cause of concern, as it is the body's response to an infection or illness. In fact, a mild fever has a neutralizing effect on the disease causing agents. While a mild fever may resolve on its own, medical help must be immediately sought, if the temperature is in the range of 103F (39.4C) to 106F (41.1C). Temperature of more than 107.6F (42C) is associated with brain damage.

The average oral body temperature of an adult is about 98.6F (37C), but it is quite normal to have a temperature that is 1F above or below the normal temperature. A person is said to have a low grade fever Honda Ultrasound Transducer when the temperature is within the range of 98.6F to 100.9F. If the temperature is within 101.1F to 102.2F (39C), one has a mild fever.

It is very important to control high temperature as soon as possible and bring it to normal. This is because most of the body's enzymes work at normal temperature. Medical help must be sought in the following cases:

If an infant under the age of 3 months has a rectal temperature of 100.4F (38C) or higher.

If a child in the age group of 3 12 months has a temperature of 102.2F (39C) or higher.

If the fever lasts longer than 24 48 hours in case of children under the age of 2 years.

In adults, body temperature above 103F (39.44C) is considered to be a high fever. At times, temperature rises as the body absorbs more heat than it dissipates. This condition is called hyperthermia. This occurs due to failed thermoregulation, as the body is unable to cool itself by normal sweating.

Hyperpyrexia is a condition wherein the temperature is more than 106.7F (41.5C). Such high temperatures can lead to brain damage, and might even be life threatening. These constitute a medical emergency

If you or someone you know has a high fever, cold compresses should be applied to keep the temperature in control. If it does not subside, consult a doctor immediately.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.