A fever is the elevation of the body temperature above normal. What's normal for you may be higher or lower than the average 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit/37 degrees Celsius. A fever is not an illness, but a sign of something going on-most often associated with your body defending itself against a viral or bacterial infection.

LOW-GRADE FEVER:

• Temperature up to 100.9 degrees Fahrenheit

Low-grade fever is not serious unless it becomes chronic with accompanying symptoms. The body uses this fever to fight infection, whether it be viral or bacterial. It is not necessary to treat a low-grade fever with medication.

TREATMENT OF HIGHER FEVERS

If the temperature goes above 102 degrees Fahrenheit and it makes you uncomfortable, you may take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Motrin (Advil, Ibuprofen).

If you don't know why you have a fever, it's best not to try to lower your temperature. This may only mask your symptoms and make it harder to determine the cause. In addition, some experts think that aggressively treating all fevers actually interferes with your body's immune response. That's because the viruses that cause colds and other respiratory infections thrive at cool temperatures. By producing a low-grade fever your body may actually be helping eliminate the virus. What's more, most fevers go away in a relatively short time — usually within a few days.

Other symptoms of muscle aching or headache may cause increased discomfort; it is acceptable to take Tylenol or Motrin for these symptoms as well. Aspirin is acceptable to use in older adults only; however, it should be avoided in those 19 and younger due to the possibility of Reye Syndrome.If medication is not successful in lowering the fever, cool compresses or a tepid bath may be tried. Compresses will be especially useful if placed on the forehead, neck, armpits, and groin. If giving a bath, use lukewarm water only: cold water may lower the temperature too fast, inducing shivering which will increase the fever.