A low-grade fever refers to a body temperature that is slightly above the normal level, which is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Celsius.

This can range from 99.1 to 100.4 F. In most cases, having a low-grade fever is a sign of an infection, which also indicates that the body is trying to fight the virus or bacteria that caused the infection. This type of fever is therefore accompanied by other symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, and mild sweating. Some people may also experience vomiting or dizziness.

If you’re someone who is experiencing a low-grade fever or knows someone suffering from it, it is important to first determine the underlying cause and then seek treatment. Listed below are some common causes and times when you should seek immediate attention.

Flu, Common Cold, And Other Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections, such as the flu and common cold, can cause a low-grade fever. This occurs because the body’s defence system detects the invading virus and initiates an effort to combat it. Other symptoms often include:

  • Cough
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Fatigue
  • Chest congestion
  • Shortness of breath, in severe cases

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

Another common infection that leads to a low-grade fever is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). It is a bacterial infection that occurs when bacteria that live in the vagina and other genital areas enter the urethra and travel to the bladder, leading to an infection. This infection is more common in women than in men. In fact, research suggests about 50-70% of women will have a UTI sometimes during their lifetime, of which 20-30% will have a recurrent UTI.

Chronic Stress

Stress-induced fever, or psychogenic fever, is real and more common among young women, according to a 2015 research paper published in the journal Temperature. Unlike fevers caused by infections, stress-induced fever cannot be brought down by medications; rather, one may need to calm their mind and reduce anxiety. This is because stress might involve the nervous system, particularly the “fight-or-flight” response, and its influence on body temperature regulation.

Certain Medications

Interestingly, certain medications can also increase body temperature and cause low-grade fever as a side effect. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with your doctor before starting any new medications. A review published in the paper Pediatric Pharmacotherapy even suggested that drug-induced fever can go away very quickly, typically within 72 hours, once the patient stops taking the medication.

Vaccinations

Low-grade fever is a very common side effect of vaccination. Some of you may have experienced it after receiving the COVID-19 vaccination. This is because when you get a vaccine, it introduces a weakened or inactive version of a virus or bacteria into your body. In response, your immune system creates antibodies to fight these foreign entities, leading to a low-grade fever. This is actually a good sign, as it means that your immune system is working hard and learning how to recognise and destroy the real virus if you ever encounter it in the future.

Ask The Expert: Should You Avoid Eating Eggs During Fever?

When Should You Worry?

One of the most worrying causes of a low-grade fever is cancer. This type of fever can be persistent. Common types of cancers that can lead to it include leukaemia, Hodgkin disease, or non-Hodgkin lymphoma, according to Medical News Today. In addition, some people may also experience:

  • Constant fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Headaches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • Night sweats

Conclusion

A low-grade fever can mean anything from infections to stress to more concerning health problems like cancer. Depending on the severity, duration, and associated symptoms, you can determine the underlying cause. However, a doctor is the most suitable person to diagnose your condition and lay out the course of treatment. Therefore, avoid taking matters into your own hands and get professional guidance.

[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your doctor if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]