How to tell if you have a fever

You can determine whether you have a fever through methods such as body temperature measurement, self-observation of physical sensations, touching the skin to assess its condition, monitoring breathing and pulse, and evaluating mental status. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. **Body Temperature Measurement**: Commonly used sites for measuring temperature include the armpit, mouth, and forehead. For axillary (armpit) measurement, place the mercury end of the thermometer deep in the armpit and hold it tightly for 5–10 minutes. A normal range is 36.0–37.2°C; a reading above 37.3°C indicates fever. For oral measurement, avoid eating or drinking beforehand, place the thermometer under the tongue for 3 minutes. The normal range is 36.3–37.2°C; any value exceeding this is considered abnormal.

2. **Self-Observation of Physical Sensations**: In the early stages of fever, noticeable changes in bodily sensation often occur—such as feeling cold or chills—even in normally warm environments, leading to shivering and curling up. This may later shift to sensations of whole-body heat and unbearable warmth. Headaches, dry throat, muscle aches, and significant fatigue during activity are also commonly experienced.

3. **Touch Assessment of Skin Condition**: Use the back of your hand or palm to touch the skin on the forehead, neck, and chest, comparing it with the temperature of the limbs. During fever, the skin on the head and torso feels significantly warmer or even hot to the touch, while hands and feet may feel cold. This occurs due to dysfunction in the body's thermoregulatory center, which redirects blood flow toward internal organs.

4. **Monitoring Breathing and Pulse**: Elevated body temperature increases metabolic rate, resulting in faster breathing and pulse. Normal resting respiration rates for adults range from 12 to 20 breaths per minute, and normal pulse rates range from 60 to 100 beats per minute. During fever, breathing may exceed 20 breaths per minute, and pulse rates can increase to 100–120 beats per minute.

5. **Assessment of Mental Status**: Fever can affect central nervous system function, causing lethargy, difficulty concentrating, slowed thinking, and reduced mental clarity. Some individuals may become drowsy, irritable, or easily agitated.

If fever is confirmed using multiple methods, mild cases can be managed by drinking more fluids and applying physical cooling measures. However, if body temperature exceeds 38.5°C or symptoms persistently worsen, prompt actions to reduce fever are necessary. Maintaining regular作息 (daily routines), adequate rest, and improving immunity in daily life can help reduce the likelihood of developing fevers.