Fever Patterns: What Different Temperature Curves Mean

Why Fever Patterns Matter

The way fever behaves – whether it stays steady, fluctuates significantly, or occurs at regular intervals – can provide doctors with important clues about the underlying cause. Recognizing fever patterns helps determine whether medical attention is needed.

"Keeping a fever diary with regular measurements can provide valuable information for your doctor."

The Main Fever Patterns

Continuous Fever (Febris continua)

In continuous fever, the temperature remains elevated for 24 hours with fluctuations of less than 1°C (1.8°F). The temperature never drops to normal values.

Common causes:

• Typhoid fever (in the second week)
• Bacterial pneumonia
• Some urinary tract infections

Remittent Fever

The temperature fluctuates by more than 1°C throughout the day but never drops to normal. Typically, the temperature is higher in the evening than in the morning.

Common causes:

• Viral infections
• Bacterial endocarditis
• Many bacterial infections

Intermittent Fever

In intermittent fever, periods of fever alternate with fever-free periods. The temperature normalizes at least once within 24 hours.

Common causes:

• Malaria (classic pattern every 48–72 hours)
• Septicemia
• Some abscesses

Relapsing Fever

One or more days of fever are followed by fever-free days, then the fever returns. The febrile and afebrile phases can repeat over weeks.

Common causes:

• Relapsing fever (Borrelia)
• Hodgkin's lymphoma (Pel-Ebstein fever)
• Brucellosis

Biphasic Fever

The fever rises, falls, and rises again after several days – like a "camel with two humps."

Common causes:

• Dengue fever (saddleback fever)
• Measles
• Poliomyelitis

Documenting Fever Properly

To identify fever patterns, regular documentation is essential:

1. Measure at least 3–4 times daily (morning, midday, evening, night)
2. Note the time and temperature
3. Always use the same measurement method
4. Record accompanying symptoms (chills, sweating, headache)

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

• The fever persists for more than 3 days without an identifiable cause
• You notice an unusual pattern (e.g., regular fever spikes)
• Accompanying symptoms like chills, night sweats, or weight loss occur
• You have recently traveled to tropical areas

Summary