What should you know about central fever?

Your brain helps coordinate temperature through the hypothalamus. If this control system is affected, the body may become hot even when there is no infection. Central fever is a clinical explanation, not a diagnosis that can be confirmed from temperature alone. Doctors consider the recent history, examination, medicines and possible infection together.

Fever can also accompany infections such as Acute Bronchitis, Bronchiolitis, Brucellosis, Cellulitis, Chickenpox, Common Cold, COVID-19 or Croup. These conditions can have different symptoms, so a new fever should not automatically be labelled central.

Record when the temperature began, how it was measured, and whether it changes with fluids, rest or prescribed treatment. Note headache, confusion, cough, urinary symptoms, rash, neck stiffness or recent neurological illness. Drink fluids if you can, wear light clothing and avoid overheating. Do not start antibiotics or cooling medicines without advice, because the cause still needs checking.

Seek urgent medical help for fever with confusion, a seizure, severe headache, stiff neck, trouble breathing, fainting, a new weakness, or difficulty speaking. Contact a clinician promptly when fever follows a head injury, stroke, brain procedure or another neurological event, or when it persists or worsens despite supportive care.

Could infection, a medicine, dehydration or a neurological problem explain this temperature? Which warning signs should prompt emergency care? How should I measure and record my temperature at home?