What are the common causes of persistent low grade fever. How can you recognize the symptoms of a low grade fever. What treatments are available for persistent low grade fever.

Understanding Low Grade Fever: Definition and Characteristics

A low grade fever is characterized by a slight elevation in body temperature, typically ranging from 100.5°F to 102.2°F (38.1°C to 39°C). While the average human body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C), it’s important to note that this can fluctuate throughout the day. A fever is considered persistent when the elevated temperature lasts for more than two weeks.

The body’s natural response to fighting off infections or other health issues often involves raising its core temperature. This mechanism helps create an environment less favorable for pathogens to thrive. However, in some cases, the underlying cause of a persistent low grade fever may be more challenging to identify and treat.

Common Symptoms Associated with Low Grade Fever

• Feeling warm to the touch
• Sweating
• Chills or shivering
• Headaches
• Muscle aches
• Dehydration
• General feeling of being unwell

It’s worth noting that some individuals may barely notice they have a low grade fever, while others might experience more pronounced symptoms. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause and individual factors.

Respiratory Infections: A Common Culprit Behind Low Grade Fevers

Respiratory infections are frequently responsible for causing persistent low grade fevers. These infections can affect various parts of the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. Common respiratory infections that may lead to a low grade fever include:

• Common cold
• Influenza (flu)
• Bronchitis
• Sinusitis
• Pneumonia

When the body is combating a respiratory infection, it may maintain an elevated temperature for as long as it takes to overcome the pathogen. This duration can vary depending on the specific infection and the individual’s immune response.

Identifying Respiratory Infection Symptoms

In addition to a low grade fever, respiratory infections often present with other telltale signs. These may include:

• Coughing (dry or productive)
• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Sore throat
• Fatigue or weakness
• Reduced appetite

Many uncomplicated respiratory infections are self-limiting, meaning they will resolve on their own with time and proper rest. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Urinary Tract Infections and Their Impact on Body Temperature

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are another common cause of persistent low grade fevers. These infections occur when bacteria multiply within any part of the urinary system, which includes the bladder, urethra, kidneys, and ureters. UTIs can affect individuals of all ages but are particularly common in women.

Recognizing UTI Symptoms

In addition to a low grade fever, individuals with a UTI may experience:

• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen
• A burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Cloudy or dark-colored urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Feeling tired or shaky

Are UTIs always accompanied by a fever? Not necessarily. While a low grade fever can be a sign of a UTI, some individuals may experience an infection without any noticeable increase in body temperature. This is why it’s crucial to be aware of other symptoms and seek medical attention if you suspect a UTI.

Treating Urinary Tract Infections

Most uncomplicated UTIs can be effectively treated with a course of antibiotics. To ensure the most appropriate treatment, healthcare providers often analyze a urine sample to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection. This allows them to prescribe targeted antibiotics, increasing the chances of successful treatment and reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Other Infections That May Cause Persistent Low Grade Fever

While respiratory infections and UTIs are common culprits, various other infections can lead to a persistent low grade fever. Some of these include:

• Food poisoning
• Zoonotic infections (transmitted from animals to humans)
• Tuberculosis
• Meningitis
• Endocarditis (infection of the heart’s inner lining)
• Osteomyelitis (bone infection)

Can persistent low grade fevers be a sign of serious infections? Yes, in some cases, a prolonged low grade fever may indicate a more severe underlying infection. This is particularly true if the fever is accompanied by other concerning symptoms or doesn’t respond to initial treatments.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you’re experiencing a persistent low grade fever along with any of the following symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider:

• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent vomiting
• Severe abdominal pain
• Unusual rashes or skin changes

These symptoms could indicate a more serious infection or condition that requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment.

Medications and Their Potential to Cause Low Grade Fevers

In some cases, medications can be the underlying cause of a persistent low grade fever. This phenomenon is known as a drug fever and can occur as a side effect of various pharmaceutical agents.

Common Medications Associated with Drug Fever

• Antibiotics (e.g., beta-lactams, sulfonamides)
• Anticonvulsants
• Antipsychotics
• Some blood pressure medications
• Certain pain relievers

How quickly does a drug-induced fever resolve? According to a 2018 review, drug-induced fevers typically subside within 72 hours of discontinuing the causative medication. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before stopping any prescribed medications.

Identifying Drug-Induced Fevers

Distinguishing a drug-induced fever from other causes can be challenging. Some characteristics that may suggest a medication-related fever include:

• Onset of fever after starting a new medication
• Absence of other typical infectious symptoms
• Fever that doesn’t respond to antipyretic medications
• Resolution of fever after discontinuing the suspected medication

If you suspect that a medication may be causing your persistent low grade fever, it’s essential to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate the possibility and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

The Connection Between Chronic Stress and Low Grade Fever

Interestingly, chronic stress can manifest physically in various ways, including the development of a low grade fever. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as “psychogenic fever,” is most commonly observed in young women, according to a 2015 research paper.

Understanding Stress-Induced Fever

Stress-induced fever is thought to be related to the body’s fight-or-flight response and the subsequent release of stress hormones. These hormones can affect the body’s thermoregulatory system, leading to a slight increase in core body temperature.

Can stress really cause a fever? While it may seem surprising, research supports the notion that chronic stress can indeed lead to a persistent low grade fever in some individuals. This underscores the profound impact that psychological factors can have on physical health.

Managing Stress-Related Fevers

Addressing stress-induced fevers typically involves tackling the root cause – the stress itself. Some strategies that may help include:

• Practicing relaxation techniques (e.g., deep breathing, meditation)
• Engaging in regular physical exercise
• Ensuring adequate sleep and rest
• Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional
• Implementing time management and prioritization strategies

By effectively managing stress levels, many individuals find that their stress-related symptoms, including low grade fevers, begin to resolve.

Cancer and Persistent Low Grade Fever: When to Be Concerned

While it’s important not to jump to conclusions, in rare cases, a persistent low grade fever with no apparent cause may be associated with certain types of cancer. Specifically, hematologic malignancies such as leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma can sometimes present with a prolonged low grade fever.

Cancer-Related Symptoms to Watch For

In addition to a persistent low grade fever, other symptoms that may warrant further investigation include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Chronic fatigue or weakness
• Night sweats
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Recurrent infections
• Persistent pain

Is a low grade fever always a sign of cancer? Absolutely not. It’s crucial to remember that these symptoms can be caused by many other, often less serious conditions. However, if you’re experiencing a combination of these symptoms along with a persistent low grade fever, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

Diagnostic Approach for Unexplained Fevers

When faced with a persistent low grade fever of unknown origin, healthcare providers typically follow a systematic approach to diagnosis. This may include:

1. Comprehensive medical history and physical examination
2. Blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation
3. Imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs)
4. Specialized tests based on suspected causes

The goal is to identify the underlying cause of the fever and develop an appropriate treatment plan. In many cases, the cause is found to be benign or treatable, but early detection and intervention are key to optimal outcomes.

Understanding the various causes of persistent low grade fevers can help individuals recognize when to seek medical attention and what to expect during the diagnostic process. While some cases may resolve on their own or with simple interventions, others may require more extensive evaluation and treatment. By staying informed and attentive to your body’s signals, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining your health and well-being.

Persistent low grade fever: Causes and treatments

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

The normal human body temperature is about 98.6°F, but it fluctuates throughout the day. A low grade fever is when the body temperature rises slightly, usually between about 100.5°F and 102.2°F.

The fever is persistent when the body temperature stays in this range for more than 2 weeks.

A fever is commonly a result of the body trying to fight off an infection or another illness. However, some cases are more difficult to diagnose and treat.

Continue reading to learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of a persistent low grade fever.

Share on PinterestIf the body is fighting off an infection, a person may experience a persistent low grade fever.

Some people may hardly notice that they have a low grade fever. However, others may experience various symptoms, including:

• feeling warm to the touch
• sweating
• chills
• shivering
• headaches
• muscle aches
• dehydration
• a general feeling of being unwell

A persistent low grade fever is typically a sign that the body is fighting off an infection or another health issue and has raised its temperature to help these efforts.

These underlying issues can include:

Respiratory infections

Respiratory infections can cause a persistent low grade fever. Some of the most common respiratory infections, such as a cold or the flu, may cause a low grade fever that lasts for as long as the body takes to fight off the infection.

Other symptoms that may indicate a respiratory infection include:

• coughing
• sneezing
• a stuffy or runny nose
• a sore throat
• chills
• general fatigue
• lack of appetite

Many simple respiratory infections do not require treatment, and the symptoms will go away in time.

Urinary tract infections

A urinary tract infection (UTI) may also be the underlying cause of a low grade fever. A UTI is a bacterial infection that occurs when bacteria multiply anywhere in the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, urethra, kidneys, and ureters.

In addition to a low grade fever, the person may experience symptoms such as:

• pain in the abdomen
• a burning sensation while peeing
• frequent urination
• a constant urge to urinate
• dark urine

Most UTIs are simple to treat with antibiotics. The doctor may analyze a urine sample to determine the precise type of bacteria causing the infection to ensure that they prescribe the right treatment.

Other infections

Share on PinterestA person should talk to their doctor if they experience any symptoms of infection alongside a fever.

Almost any infection can cause a fever. A fever is one of the body’s natural responses to foreign invaders. The body may keep its core temperature elevated while it is fighting off the infection.

Other sources of infections that may cause a low grade fever include:

• food poisoning
• exposure to pathogens from livestock
• tuberculosis
• meningitis

Anyone experiencing symptoms of infection alongside a fever should see a doctor if the symptoms do not improve with rest and time.

Medications

Some medications can cause many different side effects, which may include a low grade fever. People can check the information on side effects and interactions that comes in the packaging or seek advice from a pharmacist.

As the author of a 2018 review notes, if the medication is the cause, the fever should go away very quickly — typically within 72 hours — once the person stops taking the drug.

Stress

Chronic stress may cause a low grade fever. A research paper from 2015 notes that a fever due to stress is most common in young women.

Reducing stress levels may resolve the fever in these cases.

Cancer

In rare cases, a persistent low grade fever with no known cause may be a sign of cancer.

A persistent fever can be a symptom of leukemia, Hodgkin disease, or non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The person may also experience other symptoms of cancer, including:

• persistent fatigue
• weakness
• headaches
• infections
• lack of appetite
• excessive bruising or bleeding
• unexplained weight loss
• enlarged lymph nodes
• excessive sweating at night

Many of these symptoms are not unique to cancer, however.

Anyone who experiences these symptoms along with a low grade fever should see a doctor for a diagnosis.

Chronic disorders

Many other chronic disorders may cause symptoms such as a low grade fever, including:

• thromboembolic disease
• arthritis
• lupus
• gout
• thyroiditis
• serum sickness-like reactions
• serotonin syndrome
• neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Diagnosing a persistent low grade fever may involve several different tests to eliminate potential causes.

The doctor will generally carry out a physical examination and question the person regarding additional symptoms and whether they have any chronic conditions.

The doctor may also ask about any medications that the person takes so that they can eliminate them as a cause of the fever.

They may order blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), to get an overview of the person’s health. The results may help them decide which other tests, if any, they need to order.

If the doctor suspects that the person has a UTI, they may ask them for a sample of their urine to test.

Share on PinterestOTC drugs may help treat a low grade fever at home.

Treatment for a persistent low grade fever will depend on the cause. For instance, minor infections may not need treatment at all, whereas issues such as cancer require extensive treatment.

To alleviate the symptoms of a low grade fever at home, a person can try over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).

A fever can cause dehydration, so it is vital to drink plenty of water.

It is important to treat a low grade fever in children, who may be more sensitive to temperature changes. Using children’s versions of OTC drugs may help control the fever while waiting to see a doctor.

A persistent low grade fever is a sign of an underlying issue, such as a mild infection or chronic condition. The fever may persist while the person is fighting off the infection.

For the most part, persistent low grade fevers are not a cause for concern. However, it is important to monitor the fever to see whether it gets worse.

Anyone who is concerned about their symptoms or experiences a persistent low grade fever for more than 10 days should see a doctor.

SHOP FOR OTC DRUGS

The drugs listed in this article are available online:

• Ibuprofen
• Acetaminophen

Persistent low grade fever: Causes and treatments

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

The normal human body temperature is about 98.6°F, but it fluctuates throughout the day. A low grade fever is when the body temperature rises slightly, usually between about 100.5°F and 102.2°F.

The fever is persistent when the body temperature stays in this range for more than 2 weeks.

A fever is commonly a result of the body trying to fight off an infection or another illness. However, some cases are more difficult to diagnose and treat.

Continue reading to learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of a persistent low grade fever.

Share on PinterestIf the body is fighting off an infection, a person may experience a persistent low grade fever.

Some people may hardly notice that they have a low grade fever. However, others may experience various symptoms, including:

• feeling warm to the touch
• sweating
• chills
• shivering
• headaches
• muscle aches
• dehydration
• a general feeling of being unwell

A persistent low grade fever is typically a sign that the body is fighting off an infection or another health issue and has raised its temperature to help these efforts.

These underlying issues can include:

Respiratory infections

Respiratory infections can cause a persistent low grade fever. Some of the most common respiratory infections, such as a cold or the flu, may cause a low grade fever that lasts for as long as the body takes to fight off the infection.

Other symptoms that may indicate a respiratory infection include:

• coughing
• sneezing
• a stuffy or runny nose
• a sore throat
• chills
• general fatigue
• lack of appetite

Many simple respiratory infections do not require treatment, and the symptoms will go away in time.

Urinary tract infections

A urinary tract infection (UTI) may also be the underlying cause of a low grade fever. A UTI is a bacterial infection that occurs when bacteria multiply anywhere in the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, urethra, kidneys, and ureters.

In addition to a low grade fever, the person may experience symptoms such as:

• pain in the abdomen
• a burning sensation while peeing
• frequent urination
• a constant urge to urinate
• dark urine

Most UTIs are simple to treat with antibiotics. The doctor may analyze a urine sample to determine the precise type of bacteria causing the infection to ensure that they prescribe the right treatment.

Other infections

Share on PinterestA person should talk to their doctor if they experience any symptoms of infection alongside a fever.

Almost any infection can cause a fever. A fever is one of the body’s natural responses to foreign invaders. The body may keep its core temperature elevated while it is fighting off the infection.

Other sources of infections that may cause a low grade fever include:

• food poisoning
• exposure to pathogens from livestock
• tuberculosis
• meningitis

Anyone experiencing symptoms of infection alongside a fever should see a doctor if the symptoms do not improve with rest and time.

Medications

Some medications can cause many different side effects, which may include a low grade fever. People can check the information on side effects and interactions that comes in the packaging or seek advice from a pharmacist.

As the author of a 2018 review notes, if the medication is the cause, the fever should go away very quickly — typically within 72 hours — once the person stops taking the drug.

Stress

Chronic stress may cause a low grade fever. A research paper from 2015 notes that a fever due to stress is most common in young women.

Reducing stress levels may resolve the fever in these cases.

Cancer

In rare cases, a persistent low grade fever with no known cause may be a sign of cancer.

A persistent fever can be a symptom of leukemia, Hodgkin disease, or non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The person may also experience other symptoms of cancer, including:

• persistent fatigue
• weakness
• headaches
• infections
• lack of appetite
• excessive bruising or bleeding
• unexplained weight loss
• enlarged lymph nodes
• excessive sweating at night

Many of these symptoms are not unique to cancer, however.

Anyone who experiences these symptoms along with a low grade fever should see a doctor for a diagnosis.

Chronic disorders

Many other chronic disorders may cause symptoms such as a low grade fever, including:

• thromboembolic disease
• arthritis
• lupus
• gout
• thyroiditis
• serum sickness-like reactions
• serotonin syndrome
• neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Diagnosing a persistent low grade fever may involve several different tests to eliminate potential causes.

The doctor will generally carry out a physical examination and question the person regarding additional symptoms and whether they have any chronic conditions.

The doctor may also ask about any medications that the person takes so that they can eliminate them as a cause of the fever.

They may order blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), to get an overview of the person’s health. The results may help them decide which other tests, if any, they need to order.

If the doctor suspects that the person has a UTI, they may ask them for a sample of their urine to test.

Share on PinterestOTC drugs may help treat a low grade fever at home.

Treatment for a persistent low grade fever will depend on the cause. For instance, minor infections may not need treatment at all, whereas issues such as cancer require extensive treatment.

To alleviate the symptoms of a low grade fever at home, a person can try over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).

A fever can cause dehydration, so it is vital to drink plenty of water.

It is important to treat a low grade fever in children, who may be more sensitive to temperature changes. Using children’s versions of OTC drugs may help control the fever while waiting to see a doctor.

A persistent low grade fever is a sign of an underlying issue, such as a mild infection or chronic condition. The fever may persist while the person is fighting off the infection.

For the most part, persistent low grade fevers are not a cause for concern. However, it is important to monitor the fever to see whether it gets worse.

Anyone who is concerned about their symptoms or experiences a persistent low grade fever for more than 10 days should see a doctor.

SHOP FOR OTC DRUGS

The drugs listed in this article are available online:

• Ibuprofen
• Acetaminophen

causes and what is subfebrile temperature

01/29/2020Updated 07/14/2021

The normal average body temperature is 36.6°C degrees Celsius. If the deviation on the temperature scale exceeds 0.5 ° C, in one direction or the other, this is not a critical indicator.

However, if the body temperature systematically rises to 37.1°C for no apparent reason, this is a reason to go to the doctor for a detailed clarification of the circumstances.

Usually, subfebrile temperature is called when the mark on the thermometer rises to 38 ° C and stays at this border. And often this is a temperature of 37.1 ° C.

In fact, an increase in body temperature does not occur from scratch.

The leading therapist of the R + Medical Network private clinic will tell you how to recognize subfebrile temperature and what are the most common reasons for this in medical practice.

Despite the fact that the causes of low-grade fever can be very different. Our doctors will still try to detail and convey the most important information to you so that you can pay attention to the hidden symptoms of the pathology in a timely manner and seek medical help. Usually, subfebrile temperature is called when the mark on the thermometer rises to 38 ° C and stays at this border. And often this is a temperature of 37.1 ° C.

What is subfebrile temperature?

Being informed is important. Especially when it comes to your own well-being or the health of loved ones.

So, body temperature can change throughout the day, depending on how you feel, climatic conditions, time of day. Therefore, deviations in the temperature regime of 0.5-1°C are not considered a pathology.

Therefore, if the temperature of 37.1°C lasts for a long period, then it returns to normal, and then rises again – sign up for a consultation with a specialist. Since the real problem can be detected only after a thorough diagnosis of the body.

Causes of subfebrile temperature can be identified using a complete blood count, fluorography, ultrasound, MRI, etc. Therefore, if the temperature of 37.1 ° C lasts for a long period, then returns to normal, and then rises again – sign up for a consultation with specialist. Since the real problem can be detected only after a thorough diagnosis of the body.

An increase in temperature is most often an immune reaction to an inflammatory process in the body or an infection.

Thus, the immune system is actively involved in the fight against the “enemy” and signals that a failure has occurred. A virus or a focus of the inflammatory process has appeared in the body.

Therefore, it is very important not to delay the visit to the doctor, but to do it as soon as possible at the first signs of the disease. After all, any disease is always easier to prevent than to treat in the last stages of pathology.

The main causes of subfebrile temperature

The most common reasons why the body can give temperature alarms are:

1. Anemia.
2. Intestinal parasites
3. Tuberculosis.
4. AIDS/HIV.
5. Toxoplasmosis, sepsis.
6. Oncological diseases.
7. Diseases of the thyroid gland.
8. Viral hepatitis, intestinal infection.
9. Autoimmune diseases (allergies, arthritis, ulcerative colitis, rheumatism).
10. Hormonal imbalance (in pregnant women, as a variant of the norm).

By the way, the causes of a temperature of 37 ° C in women may well lie in the natural ovulation period, so if you are approaching or having your period, you should not worry about this.

Subfebrile temperature in a child. What to do?

If a subfebrile temperature is observed in a teenager or a small child, first and foremost, make sure that this is not a “temperature tail” (the result of a cold or a viral illness).

Many parents start to panic when their child has a temperature of 37°C, but they forget that the child has just recently had a cold, flu or a sore throat.

After ARVI, a child may have subfebrile temperature for 5-14 days. And that would be the norm.

However, if the child has a subfebrile temperature and cannot explain his condition to you, it is important to contact a competent doctor who will diagnose and determine the exact cause of the temperature increase for further correct treatment.

Normal temperature range for people of different ages

These temperature ranges can be observed in most people of all ages. Balancing these boundaries remains the norm if the temperature changes under the influence of external factors or characteristics of the organism (this should be clarified with the doctor).

However, if low-grade fever causes discomfort or is accompanied by symptoms of an unknown etiology, your task is to find the cause as soon as possible and begin effective treatment.

R+Medical Network premium class private clinic in Goloseevsky and Pechersky districts of Kiev is distinguished by the fact that we provide patients with an integrated approach to both diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

We are not satisfied with a single indicator of tests, we are interested in a detailed analysis of the root cause of subfebrile temperature and its immediate elimination .

And this is achieved by specialists at the highest level, since all doctors of the R + Medical Network clinic are of the highest category, with extensive international work experience and personal values ​​that allow them to always cope with a situation of any complexity.

Therefore, if you feel something is wrong with your health, do not hesitate – seek qualified medical care at a private R+Medical Network clinic. And this is achieved by specialists at the highest level, since all doctors of the R + Medical Network clinic are of the highest category, with extensive international work experience and personal values ​​that allow them to always cope with a situation of any complexity.

In the “one day” mode, you can find all the answers to your questions at an affordable price, without a queue and additional movements.

Make an appointment with a therapist

View prices and services

9001 2

Author:

Ganzha Tatyana Valerievna

Therapist, allergist, first category, Experience 15 years

Other blog entries

Subfebrile temperature – what is dangerous? What to do? Where to go in Kazan? MC Health Formula

36.6 is not a constant body temperature of a healthy person, if you monitor it during the day, then this value will fluctuate slightly. The lowest result, about 36 degrees, will be at the time of morning sleep. If a person is hot after exercise, the temperature may rise slightly

Body temperature is affected by heat, humidity, too warm clothes. In women, there is a slight jump in temperature (by half a degree) on certain days of the menstrual cycle. But it will be a one-time increase. A cause for concern may be an increase in temperature from 37.2 to 37.9 for a period of more than a month – this is subfebrile temperature.

If subfebrile temperature lasts for more than two weeks, and it is accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, poor sleep, shortness of breath, then the therapist should not be postponed. Often, low-grade fever signals a malfunction in the body when other symptoms have not yet appeared.

Picture taken from stock.adobe.com in the free section stock.adobe.com/en/free

Causes of subfebrile temperature

There are diseases that provoke a slight increase in temperature over a long period.

• Chronic infectious process (tuberculosis, chronic diseases of the nasopharynx, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, prostatitis, adnexitis, bacterial endocarditis, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV infection).
• Inflammatory process
• Oncology
• Autoimmune diseases (rheumatism, ulcerative colitis, drug allergy, arthritis, postinfarction syndrome)
• Parasites
• Pathologies of the endocrine system (thyrotoxicosis, severe menopause)
• Thermoneurosis (vegetative dysfunction affecting heat transfer)

If the cause of fever is an infection, then it is characterized by:

• decrease after taking antipyretic;
• poor tolerance;
• there are fluctuations throughout the day.

But there are reasons when a healthy person has a subfebrile temperature:

• overheated
• under stress
• when taking certain drugs
• hereditary factor when a child is born and lives with a fever
• with activation of the hypothalamus
• during pregnancy
• before menses.

Such a temperature is not amenable to the action of antipyretic drugs, is easily tolerated and does not have pronounced daily fluctuations.

Examination will help to find out the cause.

Analyzes and studies at subfebrile temperature.

You should always start with a general practitioner. It is the general practitioner who will refer you for primary tests, and then, after the results obtained, will recommend the appointment of a narrow specialist: an endocrinologist, a cardiologist, a gynecologist, an otolaryngologist, an infectious disease specialist.

Fever for more than two weeks?

Need to submit:

• General analysis of blood and urine (increased leukocytosis, protein in the urine)
• Blood for hepatitis B and C, HIV and syphilis
• Sputum culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Urine culture (genital infections) and blood culture (sepsis).

Do:

• Chest x-ray (tuberculosis, lung abscess)
• Electrocardiogram (bacterial endocarditis)
• Pelvic ultrasound (inflammatory diseases)
• Abdominal ultrasound

If, after the results obtained, the cause is not established, then the patient is sent to take a blood test:

• for hormones
• for rheumatoid factor
• for tumor markers.