Is a fever of 38.5°C serious for an adult?
Nov 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. For adults, a fever reaching 38.5°C may not be serious, but it could also indicate a more severe condition; the severity depends on the underlying cause. If the fever is caused by inflammation in the body, a temperature of 38.5°C is usually not serious and can typically be treated under medical guidance with oral antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules or cefixime tablets.
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. An adult having a fever of 38.5°C may not be serious, but it could also indicate a more severe condition; the severity depends on the underlying cause of the fever.
1. Not Serious
Fever is usually caused by various factors, commonly including bacterial infections, viral infections, and mycoplasma infections. Infections with pathogens can easily trigger inflammation in the body, leading to respiratory diseases and subsequent fever. If the fever results from internal inflammation, a temperature of 38.5°C is typically not considered severe. With appropriate treatment, recovery is achievable. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may take antibiotic medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules or Cefixime Tablets orally. For viral infections, antiviral drugs like Acyclovir Tablets or Ribavirin Granules may also be prescribed.
2. Serious
Fever can also be caused by conditions such as blood disorders or malignant tumors. This type of fever is often due to damage to normal cells caused by the disease, resulting in decreased immune function and persistent fever. When fever is induced by such serious illnesses, the symptoms are considered more severe. Patients should seek evaluation at a specialized hospital. Blood disorders may be treated with molecular targeted therapy or bone marrow transplantation, while malignant tumors might require surgical removal followed by chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
