high fever

[/haɪ ˈfɛvər/]
nounpl: high fevers
febre alta
1. an elevated body temperature significantly above normal (typically 39°C/102°F or higher), usually indicating illness or infection
The child developed a high fever after being exposed to the flu.
A criança desenvolveu febre alta após ser exposta à gripe.
2. a medical symptom requiring attention or intervention
A high fever can be dangerous if left untreated in young children.
Uma febre alta pode ser perigosa se não for tratada em crianças pequenas.
In both Brazilian and American medical contexts, high fever is taken seriously as a symptom warranting medical attention. In Brazil, it's common for people to consult a doctor (médico) or pharmacist for fever management. Americans often use over-the-counter fever reducers and may consult a doctor if the fever persists beyond 24-48 hours. The threshold for concern is typically the same in both cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
high temperatureelevated feversevere feverburning fever
Antonyms / Antônimos
low fevernormal temperaturehypothermia

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
febre alta
standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
febre alta
no significant regional variation
São Paulo
febre alta
no significant regional variation
Portugal
febre elevada/febre alta
both terms used, slight preference for 'febre elevada' in medical contexts

Related Words

fevertemperaturethermometerinfectionillnessantipyreticchills

Related Idioms & Phrases

running a high fever
burning up with fever
fever pitch
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