Is a fever of 38.4°C severe?

A body temperature of 38.4°C generally refers to a fever of 38.4°C, which is usually not considered particularly severe. However, individual differences vary significantly, and the severity cannot be generalized. If fever symptoms occur, active measures should be taken to reduce the fever, and prompt medical attention is advised.

Fever occurs when pyrogens directly act on the body's temperature regulation center, when there is dysfunction of this center, or when excessive heat production or reduced heat dissipation due to various causes leads to a body temperature exceeding the normal range. Fever is one of the most common clinical symptoms and may result from infectious diseases or non-infectious conditions. Based on oral temperature, fever is generally categorized into low-grade fever, moderate fever, high fever, and hyperpyrexia. A temperature between 37.3°C and 38°C is classified as low-grade fever; 38.1°C to 39°C as moderate fever; 39.1°C to 41°C as high fever; and above 41°C as hyperpyrexia. A temperature of 38.4°C falls within the moderate fever range and typically isn't very serious. However, in elderly or physically weak individuals, even a fever of 38.4°C may lead to complications, so special attention and timely symptomatic treatment are necessary.

When experiencing a fever of 38.4°C, physical cooling methods are usually preferred. Cooling can be achieved by applying fever-reducing patches to areas such as the forehead, armpits, and groin. Alternatively, wiping these areas—including the armpits, elbow creases, and groin—with lukewarm water can help lower body temperature. If the fever continues to rise, medication should be taken promptly under a doctor’s guidance, such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets.