Common Types ofCand Care Tips
A comprehensive guide to common fever types. Learn to identify symptoms, understand their causes, and get essential care tips and home remedies for a speedy recovery.
Written by Dr. Mohammed Kamran
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 11th Aug, 2025
Fevers are one of the most common health concerns, affecting people of all ages. While a fever itself is not an illness, it is often a sign that your body is fighting an infection or another health issue. Understanding the different types of fevers and how to care for them can help you manage symptoms effectively and know when to seek medical attention.
What Is a Fever?
A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, usually above 98.6°F (37°C). It is part of the body’s natural defense mechanism against infections, as higher temperatures help the immune system fight off viruses and bacteria.
Common Types of Fevers
The common types of fevers include:
1. Viral Fever
Cause: Caused by viral infections such as the flu, common cold, dengue, or COVID19.
Symptoms:
High temperature (100°F–103°F)
Body aches and fatigue
Headache
Sore throat
Runny nose
Chills and sweating
Care Tips:
Rest and stay hydrated.
Take over-the-counter fever reducers like paracetamol (avoid aspirin in children).
Use a cool compress to lower body temperature.
If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 34 days, consult a doctor.
2. Bacterial Fever
Cause: Caused by bacterial infections like strep throat, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or pneumonia.
Symptoms:
Persistent high fever (above 102°F)
Severe headache
Fatigue and weakness
Pain in specific areas (e.g., throat, abdomen, chest)
Care Tips:
Antibiotics may be needed (only as prescribed by a doctor).
Drink plenty of fluids.
Get adequate rest.
Seek medical help if fever does not improve with medication.
3. Typhoid Fever
Cause: Caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria, often due to contaminated food or water.
Symptoms:
Gradual rise in fever (up to 104°F)
Weakness and fatigue
Stomach pain and loss of appetite
Diarrhea or constipation
Rosecolored spots on the skin (in some cases)
Care Tips:
Antibiotics are essential (prescribed by a doctor).
Maintain good hygiene and drink boiled or purified water.
Eat light, easily digestible foods.
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.
4. Dengue Fever
Cause: Spread by Aedes mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus.
Symptoms:
Sudden high fever (104°F)
Severe headache and joint pain
Rash
Nausea and vomiting
Mild bleeding (nose or gums)
Care Tips:
Stay hydrated with fluids and electrolytes.
Rest and avoid painkillers like ibuprofen (can increase bleeding risk).
Monitor platelet count if diagnosed.
Seek emergency care if severe symptoms (bleeding, dizziness) occur.
5. Malaria Fever
Cause: Caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through mosquito bites.
Symptoms:
High fever with chills and sweating (cyclical pattern)
Fatigue and muscle pain
Nausea and vomiting
Jaundice (in severe cases)
Care Tips:
Antimalarial medications are necessary (prescribed by a doctor).
Use mosquito nets and repellents to prevent bites.
Stay hydrated and rest.
Seek medical help if fever returns after treatment.
6. Rheumatic Fever
Cause: A complication of untreated strep throat or scarlet fever.
Symptoms:
Fever and joint pain
Swollen, tender joints
Fatigue
Heart inflammation (in severe cases)
Care Tips:
Requires antibiotics and antiinflammatory treatment.
Follow up with a doctor to prevent long-term heart damage.
Maintain good throat hygiene to prevent recurrence.
General Fever Care Tips
Few tips that can help:
1. Stay Hydrated – Drink water, herbal teas, or oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration.
2. Rest Well – Allow your body to recover by getting enough sleep.
3. Use FeverReducing Medications – Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is usually safe, but avoid aspirin in children.
4. Cool Compress – Apply a damp cloth on the forehead or take a lukewarm bath to reduce fever.
5. Monitor Symptoms – If fever persists beyond 3 days or reaches 103°F (104°F in children), seek medical help.
6. Avoid Overexertion – Do not engage in strenuous activities until fully recovered.
Consult a Top General Physician for the best advice
When to See a Doctor?
Seek immediate medical attention if you or a loved one experiences:
Fever above 103°F (104°F in children)
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Severe headache or confusion
Stiff neck or rash
Persistent vomiting or dehydration signs
Fever lasting more than 3 days
Final Thoughts
Fevers are usually harmless and resolve on their own with proper care. However, recognizing the type of fever and its symptoms can help you take the right steps for recovery. If you're unsure about your condition or need expert advice, consider booking a consultation with a doctor through Apollo 24|7 for quick and reliable medical support.
Stay informed, stay healthy!
Consult a Top General Physician
Consult a Top General Physician for the best advice
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Vishal Kumar H
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, master class in critical care medicine, Advanced Post Graduate Diploma in Non Invasive Cardiology, certificate course in Cardiovascular Disease & Stroke, Certificate course in Common Mental Disorder
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru
Dr. Paras Gangwal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
28 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine
Delhi
Dr Paras Gangwal Clinic, Delhi
Dr. Ashita Kuruvilla
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
KVC CLINIC, Kolkata
Consult a Top General Physician
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Vishal Kumar H
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, master class in critical care medicine, Advanced Post Graduate Diploma in Non Invasive Cardiology, certificate course in Cardiovascular Disease & Stroke, Certificate course in Common Mental Disorder
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru
Dr. Paras Gangwal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
28 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine
Delhi
Dr Paras Gangwal Clinic, Delhi
Dr. Ashita Kuruvilla
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
KVC CLINIC, Kolkata
