Headaches and fevers are common and usually self-limiting when associated with a viral infection, such as a cold or flu. Staying hydrated, taking OTC meds, and resting are generally enough for a few days. However, if you have been taking fever medications for more than 3 days or pain relievers for more than 7 days, then your illness may be serious. If this is the case, now would be the time to seek medical attention from a physician.
Additionally, if you can say your headache is the “worst headache of my life” and hit you quickly, this may be a medical emergency. A thunderclap headache with or without neck stiffness and pain can point to serious conditions such as brain aneurysm, hemorrhage, or stroke.
Interestingly, a fever is one of the body’s natural defense mechanism against infections. Raising the core body temperature aims to kill off pathogens and speed up metabolic processes. In the case of viral infections, fever is generally mild and goes away on its own. However, for bacterial infections, higher fevers may occur and do more damage if unmanaged.
High-grade fever occurs when the body temperature reaches 39.4°C (103°F), while extremely high fever (hyperpyrexia) happens at >41.5°C (>106.7°F). At these temperatures, dehydration, muscle spasms, seizures, and altered mental state can occur. High-grade fevers may point to serious infections such as sepsis or even head trauma.
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