From the Guidelines
Yes, 100.4°F (38°C) is considered a fever. A normal body temperature typically ranges from 97°F to 99°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C), with 98.6°F (37°C) being the average. For most doctors and medical professionals, a temperature of 100.4°F or higher indicates a fever, as defined in the clinical policy for well-appearing infants and children younger than 2 years of age presenting to the emergency department with fever 1. Fevers are the body's natural response to infection or inflammation, as the immune system raises body temperature to help fight off pathogens. Some key points to consider when evaluating fever include:
- The definition of fever can vary, but a temperature of 100.4°F or higher is generally considered a fever 1.
- Fever can be a sign of a serious infection, especially in certain populations such as the elderly, young children, or those with compromised immune systems.
- Treatment for mild fevers may include rest, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) at a dose of 325-650mg every 4-6 hours or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) at 200-400mg every 4-6 hours if you're uncomfortable. However, if your fever reaches 103°F (39.4°C) or higher, persists for more than three days, or is accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or stiff neck, you should seek medical attention promptly.
From the Research
Definition of Fever
- Fever is a sign of disease that has been recognized for centuries 2
- The normal body temperature range is not explicitly defined in the provided studies, but a temperature of 100.4F is generally considered a low-grade fever
Temperature Threshold for Fever
- None of the studies provide a clear definition of the temperature threshold for fever, but they discuss the management of fever in children with temperatures above 38.5°C (101.3F) 3
- It can be inferred that a temperature of 100.4F may be considered a fever, but this is not explicitly stated in the studies
Management of Fever
- Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are effective antipyretics for reducing fever in children 2, 4, 5, 3
- The studies discuss the use of these medications in managing fever, but do not provide a clear definition of the temperature threshold for fever
Conclusion on 100.4F Being a Fever
- Based on the provided studies, it can be inferred that a temperature of 100.4F may be considered a low-grade fever, but this is not explicitly stated
- The studies focus on the management of fever in children with higher temperatures, and do not provide a clear definition of the temperature threshold for fever 2, 4, 5, 3, 6