Doctor says the exact moment to go to A&E with fever

A fever is typically something that you can recover from at home, but if you also experience any of these symptoms you might need urgent medical help.

A doctor has revealed when you should go to A&E with a fever, stating that in some cases it could be a sign of severe illness. While in many cases a fever can be treated at home with rest and drinking fluids, this is not always the case, he warned.

Speaking on the Spanish radio show “Poniendo las Calles”, Doctor Darío Fernández urged listeners when they need to seek medical help. The medic, who is based at the Legazpi Clinic, explained when it is absolutely necessary to go to the hospital.

As reported by Cope Radio online, Dr Fernández first said that a fever itself is not always a cause for alarm. In cases of mild fever or low-grade fever, home remedies such as resting, drinking fluids, and taking antipyretics [fever-lowering drugs] may be sufficient to relieve symptoms.

However, fever - which is typically a temperature of more than 37.8C - can indicate a more serious problem if accompanied by other severe symptoms. The expert highlighted that there are certain situations where fever is not an isolated symptom and may signal a more serious illness.

In these cases, it is essential to go to the emergency room without hesitation.

A feeling of malaise

If the fever is accompanied by an overall feeling of "extreme" malaise (feeling unwell) that affects normal body function, it is a sign that the fever could be related to a more serious infection or illness, he said. If this includes symptoms like slurred speech, diarrhoea, vomiting and dizziness, for example, this could signal sepsis.

An intense headache

Dr Fernández said that an intense headache that does not improve with common medications can be a sign of serious conditions such as meningitis or severe infections. Neck stiffness, mainly associated with meningitis, is one of the most urgent reasons to go to the emergency room if it occurs alongside fever.

Low blood pressure

Fever accompanied by hypotension (low blood pressure) may indicate shock or severe infections significantly affecting the body. If fever comes with an elevated heart rate (tachycardia) or difficulty breathing, this could signal a cardiovascular or respiratory complication requiring urgent medical attention.

Seizures

Seizures accompanied by fever are one of the most serious medical emergencies. Dr Fernández stressed that if someone experiences seizures, they should be taken immediately to A&E.

But overall Dr Fernández clarified that not all fevers require urgent treatment. He said that mild fevers without other concerning symptoms can be treated at home with rest, fluids, and antipyretics.

However, it is crucial to monitor the progression of the fever and consult a professional if symptoms worsen or additional signs develop that may indicate a complication.

The NHS says that many things can cause a high temperature. “It's not usually a sign of anything serious,” the health body adds.

“It's often just caused by your body fighting an infection, such as a cold or flu. Sometimes it could be a sign of something more serious if your temperature is very high or will not come down.”

If you have a temperature, the NHS recommends you:

• Get lots of rest
• Drink plenty of fluids (water is best) to avoid dehydration – drink enough so your pee is light yellow and clear
• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you feel uncomfortable.

The NHS says you should call 111 if you've been treating a high fever at home, but it's not getting better or is getting worse.