Fever is a temporary increase in body temperature that generally indicates that a person's immune system is working to fight an infection. It is important to understand that fever in itself is not a disease, but rather a symptom that something is not right in the body. Normal human body temperature ranges between 36.1 to 37.2 degrees Celsius (97 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit). The range of fever varies depending on the source and can mean different temperature levels in different clinical contexts.
The 14 types of fever (and temperature levels body)
1. Clinical thermometry
Fever is generally classified into different types based on the measured body temperature. Clinical thermometry is a way of measuring body temperature with a thermometer in different parts of the body.
2. Subfebrile fever
Subfebrile fever refers to a slightly elevated temperature, usually between 37.2 and 38 degrees Celsius (99 to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit). It is often associated with general discomfort and can be a sign of infection or inflammation in the body.
3. Continuous fever
Continuous fever is when the body temperature remains constantly elevated, with minimal fluctuations, for at least 24 hours. It can be caused by bacterial infections such as tuberculosis or autoimmune diseases.
4. Intermittent Fever
Intermittent fever is characterized by fluctuations in body temperature, with periods in which the fever disappears completely. It is usually associated with parasitic infections such as malaria.
5. Remitting fever
Remitting fever is similar to intermittent fever, but the temperature spikes are more pronounced and do not return to normal between them. It may be due to serious bacterial infections such as endocarditis.
6. Hectic fever
Hectic fever is a type of intermittent fever that shows sudden changes in body temperature and is usually associated with chronic diseases such as cancer.
7. Sepsis Fever
Sepsis fever is a type of continuous fever that occurs in response to a serious infection in the body, such as sepsis. It is a symptom of a life-threatening medical condition that requires immediate medical attention.
8. Rolling fever
Rolling fever is characterized by fluctuations in body temperature with regular peaks and valleys that repeat in cycles. It may be associated with diseases such as brucellosis.
9. Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever is a fever that often accompanies group A streptococcal infection, which may present as a characteristic skin rash. Fever can range between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius (100.4 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit).
10. Lassaigne Fever
Lassaigne fever is a continuous fever of unknown origin and of low intensity that lasts for a long time. It is characterized by causing general discomfort and fatigue.
11. Hyperpyrexia
Hyperpyrexia is an extreme fever in which the body temperature exceeds 41.5 degrees Celsius (106.7 degrees Fahrenheit). It is a serious medical condition that can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
12. Retail fever
Retail fever is a mild, self-limiting fever that usually lasts a short duration and usually does not require medical treatment. It can be caused by mild viruses or exposure to high ambient temperatures.
13. Periodontal fever
Periodontal fever occurs in response to an infection in the gums and surrounding tissue. It may be accompanied by redness and inflammation in the affected area.
14. Puerperal fever
Puerperal fever is a fever that occurs after childbirth, usually as a result of a uterine infection. It is important to closely monitor puerperal fever, as it can be a sign of serious complications after childbirth.
In conclusion, fever can manifest itself in various ways and levels, and each type of fever can indicate different underlying conditions in the body. It is essential to seek medical attention if the fever is persistent, high, or accompanied by other serious symptoms. Fever itself is not necessarily dangerous, but it can be a crucial indicator of health problems that require proper diagnosis and treatment.