High temperature (fever) in adults
Normal body temperature is different for everyone and changes during the day.
A high temperature is usually considered to be 38C or above. This is sometimes called a fever.
You may have a high temperature if:
- your chest or back feel hotter than usual
- you have other symptoms, such as shivering (chills), sweating or warm, red skin (this may be harder to see on black or brown skin)
- a thermometer says your temperature is 38C or above
Important
If you feel hot or shivery, you may have a high temperature even if a thermometer says your temperature is below 38C.
You do not need to take your temperature using a thermometer, but you can if you have one.
Make sure you use it correctly to help get an accurate result.
If you use a digital ear thermometer, follow the instructions that come with it. You usually need to gently pull your ear up and back before putting the thermometer in your ear.
Do not use:
- a glass thermometer because they can be dangerous
- an infrared thermometer because some do not meet UK regulations
- forehead strips because they're not accurate
Advice for children and babies
This page is for adults. For advice about children and babies, including how to take a temperature, see:
There are some things you can do to help treat a high temperature.
Do
get lots of rest
drink plenty of fluids (water is best) to avoid dehydration – drink enough so your pee is light yellow and clear
take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you feel uncomfortable
Try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you do not have a high temperature.
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if you have:
- a high temperature and you've been treating it at home but it's not getting better or is getting worse
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
