The best way to tell if your body is fighting an infection is to pay attention to your symptoms. Some common symptoms of infection include: fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor so they can determine if you have an infection and start you on the appropriate treatment.
Fever
A low-grade fever may not be noticeable, but a high fever can make you feel hot, flushed, and sweaty. You may also have chills and shivers. A fever is usually considered to be a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. But different people have different definitions of what constitutes a fever. For some, anything over 99 f (37°C) is considered a fever.
Most fevers go away on their own and are nothing to worry about. But in some cases, a fever can be a sign of something more serious, such as meningitis or sepsis. If you’re concerned about your fever, call your doctor.
Feeling tired or fatigued
Infections cause your body to work harder, which can lead to feeling tired or fatigued. Other symptoms of infection include fever, chills, muscle aches, and increased appetite. If you think you might have an infection, see your doctor.
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
If you have an infection, your body will produce more white blood cells to fight it off. This increase in white blood cells can cause the lymph nodes to swell. Swollen lymph nodes usually indicate that there is an infection present in the body. In some cases, they may also be a sign of cancer or another type of disease.
Swollen lymph nodes can be tender or painful to touch. They may also feel hard or rubbery when you press on them. You might notice that they appear larger than normal and are more visible under your skin than usual. Swollen lymph nodes often occur in clusters and can range in size from pea-sized to grapefruit-sized.
If you have swollen lymph nodes, you should see your doctor as soon as possible so that he or she can determine what is causing them and whether or not you need treatment for an underlying condition.
Headache
A headache is a pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. Common causes include stress, tension, migraine, and eye strain. Often, headaches are harmless and go away on their own. However, some headaches can be a sign of a more serious condition. If you experience severe or frequent headaches, you should see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Nausea or vomiting
If you’re experiencing nausea or vomiting, it’s important to pay attention to other symptoms you may be experiencing in order to determine the cause. For example, if you have a fever or diarrhea along with your nausea or vomiting, it’s likely that you’re fighting an infection. Other causes of nausea and vomiting can include pregnancy, motion sickness, food poisoning, and certain medications. If your nausea or vomiting is accompanied by severe abdominal pain or a headache, it’s important to seek medical attention right away as these could be signs of a more serious condition.