Health Guide

Fever: Causes, Home Care & When to See a Doctor

A doctor-reviewed guide from SSV Multi Speciality Hospital, Tellapur — understand fever, safe home care for adults and children, and the warning signs that mean you should visit the ER right away.

What counts as a fever?

A body temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) is generally considered fever. It is your body's natural response to fight infection — usually viral or bacterial — and by itself is not always dangerous.

But high fever, fever in babies, or fever with other warning symptoms needs a doctor's evaluation without delay.

Common causes of fever

  • Viral infections — flu, common cold, COVID-19, dengue, chikungunya
  • Bacterial infections — throat, urine, chest (pneumonia), typhoid
  • Malaria (still common during monsoon in Hyderabad)
  • Post-vaccination reaction (usually mild, resolves in 24–48 hours)
  • Ear, sinus or dental infections

Home care that helps

  • Rest and drink plenty of fluids — water, ORS, coconut water, soups.
  • Sponge with normal (not cold) water if temperature is above 39°C.
  • Paracetamol at the correct dose for age/weight — every 6 hours if needed.
  • Wear light cotton clothes; avoid over-covering, especially in children.
  • Track temperature every 4–6 hours and note any new symptoms.

When to see a doctor immediately

  • Temperature above 39.5°C (103°F) that does not come down with medicine
  • Fever lasting more than 3 days, or returning after settling
  • Severe headache, neck stiffness or confusion
  • Rash, bleeding gums or nose, black stools (possible dengue warning signs)
  • Difficulty breathing, chest pain or persistent vomiting
  • Fever in a baby under 3 months — always an emergency
  • Very low urine output, extreme weakness or drowsiness

If any of these appear, call SSV Hospital 24/7 at +91 81438 17711 or come to our ER in Tellapur immediately.

Frequently asked questions

When should I take my child to a hospital for fever?

Any fever in a baby under 3 months needs immediate hospital review. For older children, visit a doctor if fever crosses 39°C, lasts more than 3 days, or comes with rash, vomiting, difficulty breathing, seizures or drowsiness.

Can I test for dengue or malaria at SSV Hospital?

Yes. Our in-house lab offers dengue NS1/IgM, malaria smear, CBC, typhoid and other fever-panel tests, with reports usually the same day.

Do you offer 24/7 fever consultation in Tellapur?

Yes. Our ER is open 24 hours. Call +91 81438 17711 or walk in — you don't need an appointment for emergency fever evaluation.

How SSV Hospital can help

SSV Multi Speciality Hospital in Tellapur offers 24/7 emergency care, in-house specialists, ICU, ambulance and diagnostics — so families in Tellapur, Gachibowli, Nallagandla, Kondapur, Lingampally, Miyapur and BHEL Ameenpur get expert help fast.

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Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor for concerns about your health.