Fever Information: Symptoms

What other symptoms might occur with fever?

Fever may be accompanied by other symptoms, depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. Fever is usually a sign of infection, which often leads to a variety of symptoms. This section describes relatively common as well as more serious symptoms that may accompany a fever.

Symptoms may occur along with fever

Fever may occur with other common symptoms including:

• Aches and pains

• Chills

• Cough

• Diarrhea

• Earache

• Flushed face

• General ill feeling

• Hot, dry skin

• Lethargy

• Nausea

• Rash

• Sweating

• Vomiting

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

In some cases, fever may occur with other symptoms and certain combinations of symptoms that might indicate a serious or life-threatening condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. Be particularly concerned about fever in infants two months of age or younger. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:

• Bluish coloration of the lips or fingernails

• Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness

• Change in mental status or sudden behavior change, such as confusion, delirium, lethargy, hallucinations and delusions

• Crying inconsolably

• Extremely watery diarrhea, possibly with blood

• High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)

• Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing, wheezing, not breathing, and choking

• Seizure

• Stiff neck with nausea or vomiting and possible confusion

• Very bad headache