Navigating the mystery of undiagnosed fevers
Verified by Dr. Bharat Agarwal, Sr. Consultant General Medicine, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.
A fever is a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, viruses, and autoimmune disorders. In some cases, a fever may remain undiagnosed despite extensive medical testing. This can be frustrating and worrying for both patients and their doctors.
Causes of undiagnosed fevers
- Infections: Such as common cold, malaria, dengue, typhoid, chikungunya, tuberculosis, pneumonia, urine infections meningitis, and abscess to name a few.
- Viruses: Some viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus, can cause fever apart from the common ones like influenza.
- Autoimmune disorders: These conditions occur when the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue. Examples include lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Cancer: In some cases, fever can be an early symptom of cancer.
- Other medical conditions: A number of other medical conditions can cause fever, including inflammatory bowel disease, thyroid disorders, and certain medications.
Symptoms of undiagnosed fevers
In addition to fever, other symptoms of an undiagnosed fever can include:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Rash
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
What to do if you have an undiagnosed fever?
If you have a fever that lasts for more than a few days or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to see a doctor. Your doctor will likely ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order tests, such as blood tests, imaging studies, and cultures.
In some cases, it may take several weeks to determine the cause of an undiagnosed fever. This is because some tests may take time to come back, and your doctor may need to evaluate systematically to rule out a number of possible causes.
Basic tips:
- Get adequate rest
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Eat a healthy diet
- Get regular exercise
- Manage stress
- Get enough sleep
- See your doctor for regular checkups, and if you develop fever or if you experience other concerning symptoms
By following these tips, you can help to boost your immune system and reduce your risk of developing an undiagnosed fever.
Undiagnosed fevers can be a source of stress and anxiety. However, it is important to remember that there are many possible causes of fever, and not all of them are serious. By working with your doctor, you can find the answers you need and get the treatment you deserve.
Consult our specialist, Dr. Bharat Agarwal, Sr. Consultant General Medicine, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai for all forms of fever and related symptoms.
Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.