Dealing with a high fever can be stressful, especially when deciding where to seek medical attention. Understanding the difference between urgent care and the emergency room (ER) can help you make the right choice for yourself or a loved one. Here is more information on how to decide which setting is appropriate for high fevers and when a visit to the ER is necessary:
When Urgent Care is a Practical Option
Urgent care clinics are often well-equipped to handle non-life-threatening medical concerns, including certain cases of high fever. Adults and children with fevers that do not exceed 104°F can generally be evaluated at the clinic. These facilities typically treat a range of conditions, such as mild flu symptoms, sore throats, or minor infections, which may accompany a fever.
Fevers that respond to over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen often fall within the scope of urgent clinics. If additional symptoms such as mild dehydration or fatigue are present, urgent care can provide effective treatment, such as fluids or medications to reduce fever. Another situation where urgent care may be helpful is when fever occurs in conjunction with less severe health concerns, such as:
- A fever with mild gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea or nausea.
- Persistent fevers that last more than 48 hours but without signs of severe illness.
Urgent clinics offer convenience for certain situations. Extended hours, shorter wait times, and the ability to handle a variety of cases make it an accessible option when your regular physician is unavailable.
When a High Fever Requires Emergency Care
Some instances of high fever necessitate a trip to the emergency room due to the potential for severe complications. Adults with fevers exceeding 104°F or children under three months old with any fever should go directly to the ER. Prolonged fevers that do not respond to fever reducers may also warrant emergency evaluation.
High fevers can sometimes signal underlying conditions that need prompt and specialized care. These include bacterial infections, severe respiratory conditions, or neurological concerns. The following symptoms, when accompanied by a fever, indicate the need for emergency care:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.
- Severe headache or neck stiffness.
- Confusion, disorientation, or significant behavior changes.
- Persistent vomiting that leads to dehydration.
- Seizures or convulsions, which can indicate a more serious condition.
- Rashes that do not fade when pressed, as they may indicate meningitis or other serious illnesses.
Emergency rooms have advanced diagnostic tools and can administer treatments such as intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and imaging tests to identify and manage serious underlying causes.
Find Urgent Care
Urgent care is a suitable choice when addressing fevers that are mild or moderate and are not accompanied by signs of severe illness. These centers can provide quality care for symptoms like manageable dehydration, mild infections, or fevers lasting a few days. High fevers that persist, reach extreme temperatures, or occur alongside serious symptoms require immediate attention at an emergency room. For newborns, any fever is considered a medical emergency. Knowing where to seek care can alleviate stress and allow for timely and appropriate treatment.
