Complete Guide to Fever Testing: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment in India

Fever is one of the most common health issues that people of all age groups experience. It can cause a rise in body temperature for various reasons, such as a seasonal cold or serious infections like dengue, malaria, or typhoid. 

Many people initially try home remedies and self-medication to treat their fever at home without even realizing it could be a symptom of a more serious condition. However, getting your fever tested is important if the symptoms persist for over three days. Accurate diagnosis through proper testing can prevent complications and reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.

This guide will help you understand the different types of fever, their symptoms, common causes, and the essential diagnostic tests and treatment options available in India. 

What is a Fever Test?

A fever test is used to identify the cause of an elevated body temperature. A person has a fever if their body temperature is above 100.4°F (38°C). The purpose of fever testing is not just to confirm the presence of fever but to understand what is causing it. This could include anything from infections to inflammatory conditions.

Why is Fever Testing Important?

Fever is a symptom, not a disease. It signals that your body is fighting off something abnormal, such as an infection, inflammation, or illness. Mild fevers may go away independently, but some may cause serious health complications that require timely diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring fever or delaying treatment can lead to severe health issues, including organ damage, sepsis, or even death.

• Fever can be caused by various factors, including viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. A fever test helps to identify the exact cause of the fever.
• Early diagnosis through fever tests is crucial as it prevents serious complications of diseases like dengue and malaria, which can become life-threatening. By understanding the importance of early diagnosis, you can take proactive steps to ensure your health and well-being.
• Start timely and appropriate treatment.
• Avoid the misuse of antibiotics or other medications.

The results of fever tests play a crucial role in guiding doctors to make informed decisions, improve recovery time, and importantly, reduce unnecessary treatments. Understanding this can reassure you that the treatments you receive are necessary and based on accurate diagnosis.

Common Types of Fever

Not all fevers are the same. Therefore, it is important to understand the cause of fever so it can be treated correctly. Here are the most common types of fevers:

• Continuous Fever: The body temperature remains consistently high throughout the day with little fluctuation (less than 1°C).

Common in: Typhoid, pneumonia

• Intermittent Fever: Fever spikes at certain times of the day and returns to normal in between.

Common in: Malaria

• Remittent Fever: The fever fluctuates daily, but never returns to a normal temperature.

Common in: Viral infections, endocarditis

• Relapsing Fever: The fever fluctuates daily, but never returns to a normal temperature.

Common in: Viral infections, endocarditis

• Undulant Fever: Fever rises and falls slowly over a period of days or weeks.

Common in: Brucellosis

Common Causes of Fever in India

The causes of fever could be many. Here are some common causes of fever that everyone should know:

1. Viral Infections: Viral infections spread easily through respiratory droplets during seasonal changes.

• Examples: Influenza (flu), COVID-19, viral gastroenteritis, common cold
• Symptoms: Fever, body aches, sore throat, fatigue

2. Bacterial Infections: This infection is transmitted through contaminated food/water and poor hygiene practices. 

• Examples: Typhoid, tuberculosis, urinary tract infections (UTI), respiratory infections, sepsis
• Symptoms: High or persistent fever, chills, fatigue, may cause diarrhea or cough

3. Parasitic Infections: Spread by mosquitoes and other vectors during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons

• Examples: Malaria, dengue, chikungunya, filariasis
• Symptoms: Sudden high fever, chills, joint pain, headache, rash (especially in dengue)

4. Heat: Related Conditions: Extremely high summer temperatures in many parts of India. 

• Examples: Heat exhaustion, heatstroke
• Symptoms: Elevated body temperature, dizziness, dehydration, confusion

5. Inflammatory or Autoimmune Diseases: Often chronic, and fever may be the first noticeable symptom

• Examples: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease
• Symptoms: Low-grade fever, joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes

6. Post Vaccination Fever: Common in people after routine immunizations in children or adults (e.g., flu, COVID-19)

• Symptoms: Mild fever for 24–48 hours, usually self-limiting

There are various reasons for fever. Therefore, it is important to understand the common causes to take timely action, seek the right tests, and follow appropriate treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional if a fever lasts more than 2–3 days or is accompanied by severe symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Fever

Fever itself is a symptom, not a disease. Therefore, it is important to understand the common symptoms associated with fever:

• High body temperature (above 100.4°F)
• Chills and shivering
• Sweating
• Headache
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration
• Rash (common in dengue or measles)
• Nausea and vomiting

When to worry?

If your fever is accompanied by:

• Breathing difficulty
• Severe abdominal pain
• Seizures or confusion
• Rash with bleeding
• Fever lasting more than 3 days

Important Blood Tests for Fever

If the fever persists for over 3 days, consult your doctor immediately. They may suggest some blood tests to identify the cause of the fever:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC test measures the RBC, WBC, and platelets to detect infections, anemia, or immune disorders. Low WBCs indicate bacterial infections, while low platelets indicate dengue.
• Malaria Parasite Test: This test detects malaria-causing parasites in the blood. 
• Dengue NS1 Antigen and Antibody Test: The NS1 antigen test detects dengue virus in the early phase. The antibody test (IgM/IgG) confirms dengue in later stages. 
• Widal Test: The test detects typhoid fever by measuring antibodies against Salmonella typhi.
• C-Reactive Protein (CRP): CRP is a marker of inflammation in the body. High CRP levels indicate an acute infection or a chronic inflammatory condition.
• COVID-19 RT-PCR: This test detects and confirms an active COVID-19 infection.
• Urine Analysis: This test checks for infections, kidney function, or dehydration by analyzing urine content. It's useful for detecting urinary tract infections (UTIs), a common cause of fever.
• Liver Function Test (LFT): This test measures enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin to assess liver health. It is recommended for dengue, hepatitis, or drug-related fevers to monitor liver damage.
• Typhoid (Typhidot or Rapid Tests): These tests detect antibodies specific to Salmonella typhi in the blood. They are faster than the Widal test and help in early typhoid diagnosis.

Doctors may also recommend imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds) in certain cases if an internal infection or abscess is suspected.

Treatment Options for Fever

Based on the Type of fever

• Viral Fever: Doctors may recommend symptomatic relief only, such as paracetamol, hydration, and rest, for viral fevers like the flu or colds.
• Bacterial Infections: Doctors may recommend antibiotics for fevers like Typhoid or UTI. Always complete the full course of antibiotics, even if you feel better.
• Dengue Fever: There is no specific treatment available for dengue. Doctors may prescribe supportive care like fluids, monitoring platelet counts, and paracetamol to reduce the symptoms. To increase the platelet count, you should consume papaya leaf extract; pomegranate juice may help. 
• Malaria: Doctors may recommend Antimalarial drugs like Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), prescribed after confirming the diagnosis via a blood test.
• Typhoid Fever: Take Antibiotics such as azithromycin or cefixime as prescribed. With proper treatment, recovery from Typhoid takes 7–10 days.

When Hospitalization is Needed

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Persistent fever for more than 3 days
• Severe dehydration
• Confusion or seizures
• Bleeding or very low platelet count (in dengue)
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain

Home Care Tips to Prevent Fever

Prevention is always better than a cure. Here are some simple yet effective tips to prevent fever: 

• Maintain Good Hygiene: Always wash hands frequently with soap and water before eating. Sanitize often-touched surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and kitchen counters.
• Cold Compress: A warm cloth on the forehead or a lukewarm sponge bath can help lower the high temperature.
• Eat Clean and Fresh Food: Avoid street food during monsoons, and eat fresh fruits and vegetables. 
• Drink Safe Water: Use filtered, boiled water. Avoid consuming water from unfiltered sources. Stay hydrated with ORS or lemon water. 
• Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes: Use mosquito repellents, nets, and wear long-sleeved clothing.
• Stay up to Date on Vaccinations: Ensure you and your family are vaccinated for flu, typhoid, COVID-19, and other seasonal illnesses.
• Boost Immunity Naturally: Sleep well and eat immunity-boosting fruits like turmeric, ginger, citrus, garlic, and green leafy vegetables.
• Get regular health checkups: If the fever persists for more than 3 days and you are not getting any relief, consult your doctor and have the necessary health checkups. Also, stay up to date on your health with regular health checkups.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if:

• Fever lasts more than 3 days
• High fever (above 102°F)
• Accompanied by rash, vomiting, or difficulty breathing
• Recurrent fever
• Fever in children under 5 years old or elderly people

Final Thoughts

Fever can result from various conditions, some minor and some life-threatening. Understanding the cause can help in timely diagnosis and effective treatment. 

Always remember that not all fevers require panic, but do not ignore the symptoms if the fever persists or is accompanied by alarming symptoms. Consult a healthcare provider, follow test recommendations, and care for yourself. Rest well and get adequate nutrients to recover faster. 

FAQ’s

1. What types of fever are most common during the monsoons?

During the monsoon, the most common fevers are dengue, malaria, chikungunya, and typhoid. These are mainly caused by mosquito bites or contaminated water. 

2. What is a fever test?

A fever test determines the cause of a high body temperature. It includes tests like CBC, malaria, dengue, and typhoid screening.

3. Is fasting required before a fever test?

Fasting is not required for most fevers, such as CBC, malaria, dengue, or Widal. Consult your doctor before taking the test. 

4. Why should one get a blood test performed if they have a fever?

A blood test helps to identify the exact cause of fever, such as viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections like dengue, malaria, or typhoid. 

5. What is the test price of a fever test?

The cost of fever tests in India may vary depending on the package, diagnostic lab, and city. The basic fever package starts from Rs 400 and may range to Rs 2000:4000, depending on the test.