Which condition is referred to when body temperature rises?

Fever is the term used to describe a temporary increase in body temperature, often due to an illness or infection. When the body detects invaders, like bacteria or viruses, the hypothalamus increases the set point for body temperature in an effort to create a less favorable environment for these pathogens and to enhance the immune response.

In clinical terms, a fever is generally considered to be a body temperature above the normal range, often defined as higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). It serves as a sign that the body is fighting off an infection, making it a crucial indicator in medical diagnostics. The presence of fever is commonly associated with various medical conditions and can lead to further investigation to determine the underlying cause.

In contrast, hypothermia refers to an abnormally low body temperature, indicating that the body is losing heat faster than it can produce it. Chills are often a symptom accompanying a fever, where the body feels cold as it attempts to generate heat. Hyperthermia describes a condition where the body temperature rises due to failed thermoregulation, typically from excessive heat exposure or strenuous exercise, rather than an immune response like fever. Thus, the term "fever" specifically indicates a rise in temperature pointedly related