How to Check a Fever Without a Thermometer

Written by Contributing Writer

27 July, 2017

When you get a fever, your body rises above its normal body temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, and your internal thermostat, which is in the hypothalamus part of your brain, is elevated. Fevers can be caused by viral and bacterial infections, illness or by getting overheated. If a thermometer isn't available, there are other ways to find out if you have a fever.

Place your hand on your forehead. If your forehead feels hot to the touch, the chances are that you may have a fever. In fact, the skin on your entire body may feel hot if a fever is present.

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Look for signs of dehydration, a telltale sign of a fever. Indications of being dehydrated include extreme thirst, dry mouth, dry skin and problems being able to urinate. Drink plenty of fluids to cool down your body temperature.

Look for symptoms that indicate the presence of an infection or sickness. This includes body aches, flushed cheeks, fatigue and chills. These often accompany a fever and are a clear indication that something is amiss.

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Pay attention to your heart rate. Individuals who have a fever sometimes also have a faster heart rate. Monitor your heart beat and get in touch with the appropriate help if your heart rate continues to accelerate and faintness and dizziness accompany it.

Watch out for seizures. When the body temperature rises above 102 degrees Fahrenheit, it may cause some individuals to go into a seizure. Get emergency help immediately if this occurs.

Determine if you are experiencing hallucinations or lapses into periods of unconsciousness, which can occur if you have an extremely high fever. Seek medical assistance right away if these symptoms are present.