12 Common Types of Fevers - Symptoms and Precautions

Fever can feel worrying, especially when you're unsure about what’s causing it or how serious it might be. The truth is, not all fevers are the same—some are mild and short-lived, while others may need medical attention. Being aware of the different types of fever, their symptoms, and how to manage them can help you feel more in control. 

This guide will take you through 12 common types of fevers, what signs to look out for, and the simple steps you can take to stay safe and feel better.

What is Fever?

Fever is your body’s natural response to infection or illness. It happens when your internal temperature rises above the normal range, usually due to your immune system fighting off a problem. A mild fever often clears up with rest and care, but understanding its cause is important. 

Knowing the different types of fevers can help you identify what’s happening and take the right steps. It’s not always serious, but paying attention to symptoms helps in staying safe and well.

12 Common Types of Fevers

There are many types of fevers, and not all of them mean something severe. Each type comes with its own causes, patterns, and signs. Learning about them can make it easier for you to manage symptoms and decide when to seek help.

Acute Fever

Acute fever comes on suddenly and lasts for a short period, often a few days.

• Usually caused by common viral or bacterial infections like flu or cold.
• Body temperature typically goes above 100.4°F (38°C).
• You may also feel chills, fatigue, or muscle aches.
• This is one of the most common types of fevers and usually responds well to rest, fluids, and simple care.

Subacute Fever

Subacute fever lasts longer than acute fever—typically between 1 and 3 weeks—but eventually resolves.

• Temperature may increase slowly and last for 1–4 weeks.
• It may feel like a mild, ongoing fever that doesn’t quite go away.
• Often linked with mild infections, autoimmune conditions, or early signs of other illnesses.
• It’s one of the less intense but still important types of fevers to watch.

Recurrent Fever

Recurrent fever appears in episodes—it comes and goes.

• You may feel well between episodes, but the fever keeps returning.
• Can last weeks or even months in cycles.
• Causes include infections, immune conditions, or diseases like tuberculosis.
• Among all types of fevers, this one needs close monitoring and possibly lab tests.

Chronic Fever

Chronic fever lasts for more than three weeks and may point to a deeper issue.

• Can be mild or high, but continues without full recovery.
• Linked with long-term infections, autoimmune problems, or cancer.
• Often accompanied by weight loss or fatigue.
• It’s one of the types of fevers that should be checked by a doctor for diagnosis.

Intermittent Fever

Intermittent fever shows a clear pattern—fever one day, normal the next.

• Temperature rises and falls, sometimes within hours or days.
• Seen in diseases like malaria or rickettsial infections.
• Often causes sweating, chills, and tiredness during fever spikes.
• This type of fever can feel confusing, so tracking your temperature is helpful.

Remittent Fever

Remittent fever includes highs and lows—but the fever never fully disappears.

• Your temperature changes during the day but stays above normal.
• Found in bacterial infections or autoimmune diseases.
• Common symptoms include tiredness, chills, and weakness.
• It’s one of the fluctuating types of fevers that benefits from early medical review.

Hyperpyrexia

Hyperpyrexia is a very high and urgent type of fever.

• Body temperature climbs above 106°F (41.1°C).
• Can result from heat stroke or serious infections.
• May lead to confusion, rapid heart rate, or even fainting.
• Needs immediate medical care—this is one of the most dangerous types of fevers.

Low-Grade Fever

Low-grade fever is a mild but persistent increase in temperature.

• Usually between 100.4°F and 102°F.
• Common with colds, early infections, or after vaccinations.
• May come with headaches, tiredness, or body aches.
• This is one of the gentler types of fevers, but it can be a sign something is starting.

Relapsing Fever

Relapsing fever returns after a period of feeling well.

• Comes in waves, each lasting a few days.
• Caused by Borrelia bacteria from tick or lice bites. This is different from viral illnesses like dengue, even though both may involve recurrent fever patterns.
• You may notice headaches, muscle pain, and sometimes a skin rash.
• One of the types of fevers needing antibiotics and medical support.

Septic Fever

Septic fever is caused by sepsis—a serious infection in the bloodstream.

• Comes with high fever, chills, and fast breathing.
• May also cause confusion, low blood pressure, or shivering.
• Requires urgent medical care and antibiotics.
• Among the most critical types of fevers, especially in people with weakened immunity.

Drug-Induced Fever

Drug-induced fever happens as a reaction to certain medicines.

• Often starts shortly after starting a new drug like antibiotics or painkillers.
• May bring on sweating, chills, and muscle aches, often without signs of infection.
• Fever typically subsides once the medication is stopped.
• Temperature goes down when the medicine is stopped.
• It's a less common type of fever, but one to watch if you’ve changed medications recently.

Idiopathic Fever

Idiopathic fever has no clear cause, even after tests.

• Called a “fever of unknown origin.”
• Can last for days or weeks, often mild and self-limiting.
• Doctors usually observe and run several tests to find any hidden issues.
• Among the more mysterious types of fevers, but not always dangerous.

Common Symptoms of Fever

Most types of fevers share a group of signs that can help you spot a problem early.

• Chills and shivering: Feeling cold even when warm outside.
• Headaches: Mild to severe pain, often pressure-like.
• Body aches: Muscle soreness or joint pain may appear suddenly.
• Fatigue: You may feel unusually tired or sleepy.
• Loss of appetite: Food may not seem appealing.
• Sweating: Especially during or after fever spikes.
• Skin rashes: Sometimes linked to viral or dengue fever infections.

Common Causes of Fever

Different types of fevers can stem from a wide range of causes.

• Infections: Bacterial, viral (like dengue fever), or fungal infections are leading causes.
• Immune reactions: The body may react to its own tissues (autoimmune diseases).
• Medications: Some drugs trigger a rise in temperature.
• Environmental factors: Heat stroke or dehydration can cause high fevers.
• Vaccines: Mild types of fevers may happen after immunisations.
• Chronic illnesses: Long-term conditions can keep the temperature slightly raised.
• Unknown reasons: Sometimes, like in idiopathic fevers, no clear cause is found.

Precautions of Fever

Whatever the type of fever, some simple steps can help you feel better and prevent spread.

• Stay hydrated: Drink water, soups, or rehydration solutions.
• Rest properly: Allow your body time to recover fully.
• Avoid crowded or dusty places: Especially when your immune system is down.
• Monitor your temperature: Keep a log if your fever patterns change.
• Use light clothing: Keep cool but comfortable to avoid overheating.
• Wash hands often: Prevent spreading infection to others.
• Eat balanced meals: Nutritious food supports faster healing.
• Consult a doctor if needed: Especially if fever lasts over three days or worsens.

Conclusion

When you understand the various types of fevers, it’s easier to stay calm, spot important signs, and take action when needed. You don’t have to guess—clear answers are just a test away. 

With its wide range of fever-related diagnostics, Metropolis Healthcare makes it simple to get tested from home and receive quick, accurate results—helping you make informed decisions for your health.

Also Read: Typhoid Fever: Symptoms, Causes, Stages & How Long Does it Last?