Body Feels Hot
| CARD 06 · YELLOW | |
|---|---|
| Category | Pre-existing |
| 108 | Not always required |
| Pathway | ASHA → PHC |
What is this?
A body temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or above during pregnancy is a fever. The woman may feel very hot to the touch, start to shiver, have a severe headache, or feel her whole body aching. Any fever during pregnancy needs attention — a high temperature can harm the baby's development and is usually a sign of an infection that needs treatment.
Common causes of fever in pregnancy include malaria, urinary tract infection, and other illnesses. Use a thermometer to measure the temperature — do not guess by touch alone. Paracetamol tablets are safe during pregnancy and will bring the temperature down while you arrange to go to the PHC. Always find the cause — never just treat the fever and stop.
- Check the temperature with a thermometer
- Take one Paracetamol tablet and drink plenty of fluids
- Tell your ASHA the same day the fever starts
- Go to the PHC the same day if temperature is 38°C or above, or if it does not come down
Pathway: ASHA→PHC
The fever becomes dangerous when it has lasted more than 24 hours without coming down, when it reaches 38.5°C or above, or when it comes with a very severe headache, stiff neck, rash, or difficulty breathing. Any fever in pregnancy lasting more than one day must be assessed at the PHC on the same day to find and treat the cause.
Khasi audio guide
Related cards
- Burning Urine — urinary infection is a common cause of fever in pregnancy
- Severe Headache with Vision Disturbed — severe headache with fever may signal a serious infection
- Cannot Eat or Drink — fever often stops eating and drinking