What should you know about evening fever?

Body temperature naturally changes through the day, and warmth, activity or extra clothing can make fever more noticeable in the evening. Infection is another possibility. Respiratory illnesses such as Acute Bronchitis, Common Cold, COVID-19 or Bronchiolitis can cause fever, while Cellulitis may cause fever with a warm, red, tender area of skin. Chickenpox can cause fever with an itchy rash. Brucellosis is another consideration when there is a relevant exposure history. The timing alone cannot identify the cause.

Measure your temperature with a reliable thermometer, using the same method each time, and note when it rises. Rest, drink fluids, wear breathable clothing and avoid overheating the room. Follow label directions for any fever medicine and check with a pharmacist if you take regular medicines or have a long-term condition. Arrange medical advice when fever persists, returns repeatedly, or comes with a new rash, breathing trouble, severe pain or marked weakness.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, a seizure, severe breathing difficulty, a stiff neck, severe dehydration, or a rapidly spreading painful skin redness. A baby with a fever, or an adult who is seriously unwell or unable to keep fluids down, needs prompt medical assessment.

Ask whether the temperature readings represent fever, which symptoms would change the urgency, and whether you need an examination or tests. Share recent travel, sick contacts, rashes, cough, medicines and any exposure relevant to Brucellosis.