Does Gastroenteritis Cause a Low Grade Fever?

Gastroenteritis is a common condition that causes an upset stomach, including diarrhea and abdominal cramping. But gastroenteritis symptoms aren’t limited to your stomach. You can also experience a low grade fever.

A low grade fever is commonly a sign that your body is fighting off the cause of your symptoms and is usually nothing to be concerned about. But if your body temperature continues to rise, you should seek medical attention.

Keep reading to find out more about the connections between gastroenteritis and fever.

Gastroenteritis primarily causes stomach-related symptoms, including:

• stomach cramping
• nausea
• vomiting

Typically, symptoms will seem to occur quickly and cause three or more bowel movements in a day.

Gastroenteritis can also cause a fever. Usually, the fever is less than 102°F (39°C). If your temperature exceeds this, the gastroenteritis cause is likely not viral-related, and you should seek medical care.

Having a fever (even a low grade one) usually means your body is building a response to illness. Higher body temperatures make viral or bacterial replication harder. The increase in body temperature can also trigger the immune system to react and kill off the viruses or bacteria.

Some of the most common viral gastroenteritis causes include noroviruses (the most common viral cause) and rotaviruses. But bacteria can also cause gastroenteritis. Examples of these include E. coli and Salmonella.

Is a fever common with gastroenteritis?

Diarrhea is the most common symptom that occurs with gastroenteritis. However, fever can occur with almost all gastroenteritis types. You won’t always get a fever when you have gastroenteritis, but it is possible.

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A fever indicates you’re experiencing illness. Doctors usually consider a fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C). If you have a higher temperature, you have a fever and can likely pass the illness to another.

Gastroenteritis can be highly contagious. The condition can spread if you come in contact with stool or vomit. Improper handwashing or cleansing of surfaces can spread gastroenteritis-causing bacteria or viruses.

You can pass the condition to another if you’re experiencing symptoms. Until your body temperature decreases and your symptoms start to improve, you should practice physical or social distancing to keep them from getting sick.

Even when your fever starts to fall below 100.4°F (38°C) and your abdominal symptoms subside, you can still pass the condition to someone very young, very old, or immunocompromised.

For these reasons, it’s a good idea to continue practicing proper hand hygiene and cleaning potentially unsafe surfaces. Also, you may still want to avoid medically vulnerable individuals for a longer time. Based on your symptoms, you can ask a doctor how long you could still pass on the condition.

How long does a fever last with gastroenteritis?

Fever symptoms will subside within 4 to 5 days after you become ill. If your fever is very high or persists beyond this time, seek medical attention.

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Gastroenteritis is usually a self-limiting condition. Most people with diarrhea will get better within 4 to 5 days of first being ill.

Treating a fever can be challenging when you have gastroenteritis. Your stomach can be so upset that you can’t swallow pills that would reduce the fever. If you can’t tolerate fluids and take medications, you can take an over-the-counter (OTC) fever reducer, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

Other methods you can use to reduce discomfort from a fever include:

• drinking cool liquids, such as water, low-sugar sports drinks, or electrolyte-containing rehydration solutions
• eating popsicles
• taking a cool (but not cold) bath
• using a cool compress
• wearing loose, breathable clothing made of natural fibers, such as cotton

Drinking cool fluids when possible may not only help you feel cooler but can also help minimize dehydration. Dehydration can be a serious side effect of gastroenteritis. Frequent nausea and vomiting can keep you from getting enough fluids.

When to call your doctor

Sometimes, gastroenteritis can make you very ill, including becoming severely dehydrated. Signs you should see a doctor for your gastroenteritis include:

• blood or mucus in your stool (if present in large amounts, seek emergency medical attention)
• fever higher than 102°F (39°C)
• severe abdominal pain
• severe diarrhea that doesn’t stop after 3 or more days
• travel-related diarrhea that may not be severe but lasts beyond 7 days
• signs of severe dehydration such as headaches, dizziness, dark urine, and poor concentration

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Gastroenteritis can be unpleasant, and a low grade fever can be a symptom of this condition. A fever over 100.4°F (38°C) could indicate a bacterial cause. Resting and maintaining your fluid balance when possible can help you.

Practice physical or social distancing and good handwashing and hygiene measures to prevent passing gastroenteritis to others. If your fever rises above 102°F (39°C), seek medical attention.

Stomach Flu: Signs, Symptoms, & Other Stomach Bug…

Oct 14, 2019

Articles

The flu shot you should be getting every year is for influenza, which is something completely different than catching a stomach bug. While the flu and stomach flu may share some characteristics, such as a fever and sweats, there are obvious symptoms that set them apart from each other. The stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, occurs when your gastrointestinal tract is irritated and inflamed. Read on to learn more about stomach flu, the differences between a stomach bug, influenza, and food poisoning, and how to prevent and treat stomach viruses for the upcoming winter.

Stomach Flu vs. Influenza

It’s fundamentally simple to be able to discriminate between the stomach flu versus influenza, once you’re familiar with the symptoms. The problem is, many people are unfamiliar with types of viruses believe that stomach flu is also the regular flu, which isn’t true. Getting a flu shot is important and will protect you against influenza, but it can’t protect you from a stomach virus. The actual influenza virus is an upper respiratory virus, with strains that are different each year. (This is why you need a new vaccination every year). However, the stomach flu is a virus in the gastrointestinal tract, which is sometimes even caused by bacteria or parasites. 

If you are suffering from the actual flu, your symptoms will be apparent in the form of muscle aches, fever, cough and/or chest congestion, and fatigue. While you may have some of these symptoms with a stomach bug, the stomach and GI disruption involved with having gastroenteritis should be a clear sign that you do not have influenza. Still, it is always a good idea to be evaluated by a medical professional. 

Stomach Flu Symptoms

Many of the symptoms surrounding viral gastroenteritis are indicative of an irritated GI tract. These include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, muscle aches, and a low-grade fever. The fever associated with viral gastroenteritis is typically low, while with influenza, fevers can spike. Within one to three days of infection, many patients begin to see symptoms, although symptoms can present in as little as 12 hours after exposure. Symptoms typically last three to seven days, though they could last as long as 10 in some cases. Those with any type of stomach flu symptoms should not go to school or work. Generally speaking, the cardinal rule is to be fever- and diarrhea-free for at least 24 hours before returning to regular duties. 

The exact cause of the stomach bug can help determine how long the symptoms will last. If you visit a physician, they will likely run tests that can determine the exact cause and may be able to offer you a more exact timeline. More importantly, knowing the cause of your gastroenteritis can help them treat the condition. For example, some bacterial causes of stomach flu can be treated with antibiotics. However, stomach flu can also be easily confused with diarrheal problems caused by bacteria such as Clostridium difficile, or food poisoning symptoms. 

Stomach Flu Versus Food Poisoning

The symptoms of stomach bugs and food poisoning are extremely similar, with vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle aches and cramps. It is important to see your doctor so that they can help you discern between the two. Food poisoning is caused by infectious organisms, while the stomach bug is often caused by a virus such as rotavirus. To be able to properly treat you if there are complications, your doctor will want to run some tests. If you suspect food poisoning, it is important to see a doctor as there is a certain type of food poisoning known as botulism. Botulism is very serious and could be deadly if not treated, so it’s always best to be on the safe side. 

What Causes Food Poisoning?

While the causes of a stomach bug are often the rotavirus (or norovirus), food poisoning can be caused by several different factors. Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus and three known culprits when it comes to food poisoning. Of course, bacteria have to find a way into your system somehow, and it’s usually via one of the following factors:

• Soft or unpasteurized cheeses, such as Brie
• Contaminated food or water
• Consuming raw or undercooked eggs
• Eating raw fish or oysters
• Vegetables and fruits that have not been washed 
• Undercooked rice
• Unpasteurized milk, juice, or cider

Unlike a stomach bug, coming in contact with an infected person with food poisoning is different. It’s impossible to pass food poisoning onto someone else. Although you cannot infect anyone, it’s still a good idea to rest for a few days until you feel better again. 

When to See a Doctor for Stomach Flu

Indeed, many patients don’t require specific treatment for the stomach flu, other than plenty of rest. Unless you are referring to very young children or the elderly, or are a patient who is immunocompromised, many patients are more content sitting at home, letting the flu ride its course. In many cases, the best treatment for a stomach bug is plenty of rest and proper fluids such as juices and sports drinks. However, there are some cases where you should see a doctor. If you see your fever rise above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, or you notice blood in your vomit or diarrhea, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Also contact your doctor if:

• You are vomiting/cannot keep liquids down for more than 24 hours
• Are in extreme pain or discomfort
• Appear to be dehydrated (symptoms include excessive thirst, dry mouth, little to no urine, weakness, and fatigue)

When it comes to infants and young children, a doctor should be contacted if the fever rises above 102 degrees Fahrenheit. An infant should have a wet diaper at least every six hours, and if this does not occur, consult a physician or take the child to the nearest urgent care or emergency room. 

Treating a Stomach Bug

There is no tried-and-true treatment your physician can give you when it comes to gastroenteritis or even food poisoning. However, if you’re severely affected, your doctor may prescribe or recommend certain treatments to help get you better faster. In rare cases, specific bacterial causes may warrant antibiotics. If you have a serious case of the stomach bug and can’t keep liquid down, most likely your doctor will refer you to the emergency room, where you can be treated with intravenous saline and other fluids to help rehydrate you. You may be prescribed an anti-nausea medication so you are able to start eating again, fostering a quick return to health. In most cases, however, your doctor will likely give you advice in the form of home remedies to get you back to health. 

Home Remedies for Stomach Flu

The best thing you can do after vomiting has ceased is to drink plenty of fluids. Sports drinks with electrolytes or Pedialyte are the most recommended, but you may tolerate juice or water better in the beginning. You don’t want to return to work or school to early and infect others, so get plenty of rest while you can. When you are able to eat again, well-tolerated foods include cereals, bananas, whole grains, breads (or toast), apples, and potatoes. Dairy, alcohol, caffeine, or spicy foods may upset your stomach, so be cautious of any of these items until you feel completely well.

Preventing the Stomach Bug

It’s good to remember that the flu vaccine can’t prevent the stomach bug. The best way to avoid catching gastroenteritis or even the common cold during any month of the year is to wash your hands thoroughly. Infants at two months of age can be vaccinated against rotavirus, so this is a good idea to help protect your children. The most common causes of the stomach bug are norovirus or rotavirus, and it is rarely caused by bacteria, although it is possible. This means that taking antibiotics in the hopes of preventing stomach flu isn’t a viable choice, as antibiotics cannot prevent or treat viral infections. 

If you need more information about digestive health or need to be evaluated for a chronic gastrointestinal disturbance, request an appointment at GI Associates and Endoscopy Center today. We have three separate locations, including an office in Flowood, to help meet all of your GI, stomach, and gut health needs.

Prolonged subfebrile condition – causes, diseases, diagnosis, prevention and treatment

Description

Prolonged subfebrile condition describes a condition when a person’s body temperature is kept below 38°C, but at the same time above normal (about 36.6°C) for a long time usually a few weeks or months. Usually, subfebrile temperature can be noted during the day, especially in the evening, when it can rise to 37.2-37.5°C.

This condition may be accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, weight loss, sweating and weakness. Although prolonged subfebrile condition is not necessarily a sign of any serious illness, it may indicate the presence of an underlying inflammatory process or other disease.

Possible causes of prolonged low-grade fever include: infections (eg, tuberculosis), diseases of the immune system (eg, rheumatoid arthritis), cancer, chronic inflammatory diseases (eg, Crohn’s disease), and stress and depression.

If you have prolonged low-grade fever, it is recommended to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The doctor may recommend various tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, and others, to identify the cause of the condition and determine the necessary treatment.

Why is prolonged low-grade fever dangerous? The cause of this condition can be serious, and if it is not detected and treated in time, various complications can occur, depending on the cause.

For example, if prolonged low-grade fever is caused by an infection, it can progress to more serious consequences such as sepsis or complications of the lungs, liver, or kidneys.

If the cause is a disease of the immune system, destruction of tissues and organs can occur, leading to complications of the corresponding disease.

Also, prolonged low-grade fever can be associated with stress and depression, which in turn can lead to other health problems, including cardiovascular disease and diseases of the digestive system.

Therefore, if you have a prolonged low-grade fever, it is recommended that you see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment in order to rule out serious causes and prevent possible complications.

Physiological causes of prolonged subfebrile condition

Physiological causes of prolonged subfebrile condition may include:

1. Periods of increased activity of the immune system, such as inflammation or tumor growth. In this case, subfebrile temperature can be caused by an increase in the production of cytokines, proteins that are involved in the regulation of the immune system and inflammatory processes.

2. Menstrual cycle. In women, low-grade fever may occur before and during menstruation due to changes in hormone levels.

3. Physical activity. With active training or heavy physical exertion, subfebrile temperature may be observed.

4. Elevated ambient temperature. In hot weather or high humidity, body temperature may be slightly elevated.

5. Early morning. For most people, body temperature can be slightly below normal in the early morning.

Although the physiological causes of prolonged low-grade fever may be harmless, if you notice such changes in body temperature, you should consult a doctor to rule out serious causes and complications.

Pathological causes of prolonged subfebrile condition

Pathological causes of prolonged subfebrile condition may be associated with various diseases and conditions, including:

1. Chronic infections such as tuberculosis, brucellosis, cytomegalovirus infection, etc.

2. Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.

3. Various types of tumors, including lymphoma, leukemia, lung cancer, etc.

4. Chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis.

5. Thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism.

6. Autoimmune diseases such as adult Still’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, etc.

7. Chronic bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, etc.

8. Hematopoietic disorders such as myelodysplastic syndrome, etc.

9. Metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism.

10. Other diseases and conditions such as diseases of the nervous system, systemic diseases of the connective tissue, etc.

In any case, if you have a prolonged subfebrile condition, you need to see a doctor who can conduct an examination and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Accompanying symptoms

Accompanying symptoms of prolonged subfebrile condition depend on the cause of this condition. In general, in addition to elevated body temperature (usually up to 37. 2-38 ° C), the following symptoms may be observed:

1. Fatigue and weakness

2. Headache

3. Pain in muscles and joints

4. Loss of appetite

5. Weight Loss

6. Insomnia or excessive sleepiness

7. Sore throat

8. Cough

9. Nasal congestion

10. Digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.

If prolonged low-grade fever is associated with a chronic disease, specific symptoms characteristic of this disease may also be present. For example, with hepatitis, there may be jaundice and pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, and with systemic lupus erythematosus, skin rashes and lesions of internal organs.

If you have prolonged low-grade fever with any additional symptoms, you should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

What are the scenarios

Prolonged subfebrile condition can have different scenarios depending on its causes.

1. Improved condition. If prolonged subfebrile condition is due to physiological causes, for example, fatigue or stress, then after the elimination of their effects, an improvement in the condition may occur. Also, if the infection has been treated adequately, the patient may also experience improvement.

2. Status continuation. If prolonged low-grade fever is associated with a chronic disease, then this condition can continue for a long time. In this case, the patient may be offered treatment for the underlying disease and measures to reduce the temperature.

3. Development of complications. If prolonged subfebrile condition is caused by an infection, then complications may develop, such as sepsis or meningitis. Therefore, with prolonged subfebrile condition, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor to identify the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

4. Development of new symptoms. Some diseases that can cause prolonged low-grade fever may lead to the development of new symptoms or complications over time. Therefore, it is important to monitor your condition and seek medical attention in a timely manner if new symptoms occur or existing ones worsen.

What diseases can cause prolonged subfebrile condition

Prolonged subfebrile condition can be associated with various diseases, including:

1. Chronic infections such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, pneumonia, malaria, hepatitis and others.

2. Autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory myopathy, and others.

3. Oncological diseases, including lymphoma, leukemia, sarcoma and others.

4. Chronic bowel diseases such as gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, ulcerative colitis.

5. Hormonal disorders, eg hypothyroidism.

6. Chronic liver disease, eg cirrhosis of the liver.

7. Rheumatic diseases, eg rheumatic fever.

8. Other chronic diseases such as chronic heart failure, kidney disease, diabetes and others.

It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and prolonged low-grade fever may be associated with other diseases or factors, such as drug side effects or subclinical infection. In the presence of prolonged subfebrile condition, it is necessary to consult a doctor to identify the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

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Melnikova Elizaveta Sergeevna

Experience 5 years

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What examinations to take

In case of prolonged subfebrile condition, the doctor may prescribe a series of examinations to identify the cause of the symptom. Depending on the preliminary diagnosis and clinical manifestations, the following tests may be prescribed:

1. Complete blood count, which may show inflammation or infection.

2. Blood chemistry, including liver function, kidney function, glucose and hormone levels.

3. Urinalysis for infection or other abnormalities.

4. Bacteriological examination such as sputum or feces for the presence of infectious agents.

5. Immunological tests, for example, for autoantibodies in suspected autoimmune disease.

6. X-ray examinations, such as a chest x-ray for suspected infection in the lungs.

7. Ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity and small pelvis.

8. Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for suspected cancer.

All these studies will help to identify the cause of prolonged subfebrile condition and determine the necessary treatment. It is important to consult a doctor with prolonged low-grade fever so as not to miss a possible symptom of a serious illness.

How to remove

Prolonged subfebrile condition is a symptom, not an independent disease, therefore it must be treated by eliminating the underlying cause. Treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis.

For example, if prolonged low-grade fever is caused by a bacterial infection, a course of antibiotics may be required. If the cause is inflammation or an autoimmune disease, then anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticosteroids, or immunomodulators may be prescribed.

In some cases, prolonged subfebrile condition can be caused by a deficiency of vitamins or minerals. In such cases, the additional use of appropriate drugs can help eliminate the symptom.

In any case, self-medication is not recommended. If you have prolonged low-grade fever, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Where to see a doctor

If you have a prolonged subfebrile condition, you should see a general practitioner. The therapist will conduct an examination, collect an anamnesis and determine further directions for examination and treatment. If necessary, the therapist may refer you to another specialist, such as an infectious disease specialist, gastroenterologist, rheumatologist, oncologist, etc., depending on the suspected cause of prolonged low-grade fever.

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Comments

What to do with a temperature without symptoms of the disease

In this situation, the thermometer may show 37. 0 – 37.5°C for a long time. Sometimes the indicators can reach 37.9 ° C. If no other symptoms bother a person, doctors will have to conduct a series of additional tests to understand the cause. Prolonged subfebrile temperature is a special subject of study in therapeutic practice. Patients with such complaints come to the appointment quite often. According to statistics, in 70 – 80% of cases, protracted subfebrile condition occurs in young women with signs of asthenia, in those who suffer from increased fatigue, weakness, irritability, nervousness, have sleep disturbances and other psychopathological disorders. If the fever persists for more than a month or two, then a comprehensive examination is necessary.

Causes

Increased body temperature is caused by certain proteins – pyrogens. They can enter the body from the external environment or be produced spontaneously inside it. These proteins have a connection with the hypothalamus, activate the immune system and affect the general well-being of a person.

In some cases, subfebrile temperature may indicate that an infection with a disease has occurred. In others – about a malfunction in the body. Also, sometimes there are congenital pathologies that cause an increase in temperature.

Disorder of thermoregulation can serve as one of the signs of vegetovascular dystonia. With such a disease, a temperature often appears without symptoms of a cold. A person complains of heaviness in the head, weakness, pain. The heat in the body is abruptly replaced by chills. Cold palms and feet may indicate the local nature of thermoregulation failures. In most patients with dystonia, fever can persist for up to several months.

There are cases when low-grade fever causes an increase in the number of simple microbes, which in normal times are not dangerous. This is due to a weakened immune system. The reason for the increase in temperature can also be autoimmune processes, when the body’s defenses mistakenly begin to attack healthy tissue.

— In case of any increase in temperature, you should contact your local doctor. The specialist will first prescribe a general blood and urine test. Based on their results, he will decide on further examination and treatment. In general, absolutely any stress, including emotional stress, can affect the increase in body temperature. Oleg Fatenkov, chief therapist of the Samara region

In addition, doctors say that often a temperature of 37.0 – 37.5 ° C is a sign of an allergy of a latent or overt course. If the indicator reaches 38 ° C and lasts for a long time, then this can be a sign of serious diseases: bronchitis, sinusitis, tuberculosis, latent infections, tumor processes.

Subfebrile condition can also be caused by changes in temperature, stress, hormonal imbalance, and taking certain medications.

What to do?

In any case, a visit to a specialist is necessary. Do not try to bring down the temperature at home with drugs without the advice of a doctor.