Wed, 06 May 2026 04:31:33 +0000

What a Low-Grade Fever Really Means—And Why You Can’t Ignore It Fever is one of the body’s first and most important defense mechanisms, signaling that something is out of balance. While most people dismiss a low-grade fever as a minor nuisance, this common symptom can actually reveal significant health insights. Understanding what a low-grade fever truly means—and why it shouldn’t be overlooked—can help you make informed decisions about your health and seek timely care when necessary. ### What Counts as a Low-Grade Fever? A low-grade fever is generally defined as a body temperature slightly above the normal range—usually between 98.0°F (36.7°C) and 100.4°F (38.0°C). Unlike high fevers (above 101.3°F or 38.3°C), low-grade fevers typically fall below the threshold that triggers immediate panic but still reflect that your immune system is actively responding.