A viral fever is caused by an underlying viral infection that your body is fighting off. While the common cold and influenza are two of the most common viral, severe viral infections like norovirus and dengue can cause high-grade fevers.
If you are experiencing a high fever along with symptoms including cough, nausea, fatigue, and severe body aches, consider getting a medical assessment — nearly all viral infections are contagious.
There are many ways to get exposed to viral infections:
If someone with a viral infection sneezes or coughs near you, the micro droplets can remain suspended in the air, and you might inhale them. The flu and common cold are commonly transmitted this way.
You can get viral fever or infection after consuming food and drinks contaminated by viruses. Examples of this type are Hepatitis A, norovirus, and enteroviruses.
Insects and animals can carry viruses. Their bites may cause infections like dengue fever and rabies.
The exchange of bodily fluids with someone with a viral infection can pass on the illness. Examples include Hepatitis B and HIV.
Also, these are the common viruses contributing to viral fever.
Viruses that cause the flu, leading to viral fever with high temperature, that resulted in 140,000 – 710,000 hospitalizations and 12,000 – 52,000 deaths annually between 2010 and 2020.
The virus that attacks blood cells, leading to dengue fever and sometimes hemorrhagic complications.
A member of the herpesvirus family that causes infectious mononucleosis, with symptoms including fever and swollen lymph nodes.
One of the most contagious viruses responsible for the common cold, is nasal congestion, and other cold-related symptoms, like fever.
These are common in viral fever due to the body's immune response. However, see a doctor if the headache becomes severe.
A feeling of generalized tiredness during viral fever is common as your body fights the infection.
Some viruses irritate the respiratory tract, resulting in cough and nasal congestion. Seek medical care immediately if you experience difficulty breathing.
Viral fever may cause gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or vomiting. Again, seek medical attention for severe symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea resulting in dehydration and dizziness.
Fever often leads to chills and shivering as the body's temperature regulation is disrupted, followed by sweating as the fever breaks.
Differentiating between a bacterial and viral infection will require a healthcare professional's evaluation, and certain specific tests, like blood tests or cultures, may be needed for an accurate diagnosis.
There is no instant cure for viral fever. The best approach is to allow the body's immune system to fight off the virus while managing symptoms. However, in some cases, antipyretic and antiviral medications are recommended to reduce your fever.
Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), apples, watermelon, and berries can be soothing during a fever. They provide hydration, vitamins, flavonoids, and antioxidants that support the immune system.
The duration of a viral fever varies depending on the type of virus and an individual's health. It can last for 3-5 days to a couple of weeks. Consult your doctor as soon as possible if it persists beyond this timeframe or worsens.
Yes, viral fevers typically resolve on their own within 3-5 days as the body's immune system fights the infection. However, it's essential to manage symptoms, stay hydrated, and get enough rest to support recovery. If the fever or any related symptoms persist or worsen, medical attention may be needed.
If you or any of your loved ones suspect a viral infection, we can take a careful history and perform specific tests. Walk into any of our urgent care clinics in Irvine Woodbridge Walk-In Urgent Care, Fountain Valley Urgent Care, or Costa Mesa Urgent Care, CA, for immediate care. Our providers will provide you with proper diagnosis and treatment. We also have the option of a flu shot if needed. Contact us at Family Care Centers Medical Group today.
Dr. Bunten is originally from Huntington Beach, CA. He attended high school in Tokyo, Japan, went to college at UC San Diego and then to medical school in the Midwest. He returned home to California for residency training in Family Medicine at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. His immediate family all reside in Huntington Beach.
Dr Fishbein has been in the practice of family medicine for over 35 years in Irvine. He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University, medical degree from Chicago Medical School, and completed his family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital of Long Beach.
Dr. Kim is the Medical Director of Family Care Centers, Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at Hoag Hospital, and a recipient of the Physicians of Excellence award from the Orange County Medical Association. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine, and has been practicing in our community for over 20 years.
Dr. Memon is a board certified Family Medicine physician and recently completed her fellowship in Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. She attended Saint George’s University, School of Medicine and completed her residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Her interest in medicine started at an early age and has since evolved into a passionate career.
Dr. Gina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Irvine where she graduated Suma Cum Laude. She went to USC Keck School of Medicine, and returned to UC Irvine for a Family Medicine Residency. Since 2005, she worked at Kaiser Permanente, VNCOC, and Family Care Center Urgent Care.
Dr. Williams is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. He is a native to Orange County and returned home after completing his medical degree at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. After completing his residency in family practice he successfully completed a fellowship in sports medicine.
Dr. Hye Lee is a board-certified Family Practice Physician, affiliated with the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Practice.She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Riverside and earned her medical degree from Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center. Afterward, she did her internship at Downey Regional Medical Center in California and has been a primary care physician since 2005.
Dr. Coyne is a board certified family practice physician and a California native. He completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA before earning his medical degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Dr Coyne spent 6 years in the US Air Force at Andrews and Luke Air Force bases, eventually separating as a Major. He enjoys working with patients of all ages.”
Dr. Jay Friehling is a Family Practice physician who has worked in Orange County since 1981. Born in Florida, he received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and then earned a Medical Degree at the New York Medical College.” His healthcare interests include Diabetes, Geriatric Care, and Hospice Care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoquist is board certified in Family Medicine. Her special interest is woman’s health and her practice accepts patients from 6 years old to seniors. Dr. Shoquist received her M.D. degree at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in Houston, Texas, and did her residency with Memorial Family Practice at memorial Southwest Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Tom is a board certified family medicine physician and native Californian. He received his bachelors of science with great distinction in biochemistry and honors in chemistry. Dr. Tom was awarded a Regents Scholarship to attend medical school at UC Irvine.
Dr. Yan attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Family Practice residency at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California. She joined Family Care Center in 2001. She chose Family Practice because she enjoys working with a wide variety of people and because it provides a unique opportunity for continuing care.
