Fever Symptoms: Persistent 38°C Fever and Diarrhea

Fever temperature

Since Monday night, I have been experiencing a fever that has persisted until today, with temperatures around 38 degrees Celsius.
Yesterday, after dinner, I had one episode of diarrhea.
What could these symptoms indicate?

Su Junhong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/14

Dr. Chen Zonglin reply Family Medicine

Based on your description, you only have fever and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Is there any issue other than gastroenteritis? Please seek a nearby physician for an evaluation based on your medical history and physical examination results.
If you have acute symptoms, it is advisable to seek assistance from a doctor in your vicinity as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2016/04/14

More Info

When experiencing a persistent fever of around 38°C (100.4°F) accompanied by diarrhea, it is essential to consider various potential underlying causes. Fever is a common physiological response to infection or inflammation, and it serves as a defense mechanism for the body. The presence of diarrhea adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as it may indicate gastrointestinal involvement.

The combination of fever and diarrhea can be indicative of several conditions, most commonly viral or bacterial gastroenteritis. Viral gastroenteritis, often referred to as the "stomach flu," is typically caused by viruses such as norovirus or rotavirus. Symptoms usually include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Bacterial infections, such as those caused by Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter, can also lead to similar symptoms and may be contracted through contaminated food or water.

In your case, the persistent fever suggests that your body is actively fighting an infection. If the fever has lasted for several days, it is crucial to monitor other symptoms closely. For instance, if you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or signs of dehydration (such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or dizziness), it would be advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Additionally, other conditions could present with similar symptoms, including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, or even appendicitis, particularly if the abdominal pain is localized to the right lower quadrant. In some cases, systemic infections that affect multiple body systems can also lead to fever and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Given that you have been experiencing these symptoms since Monday evening, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and possibly order laboratory tests or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
In summary, while a persistent fever of 38°C with diarrhea can often be attributed to viral or bacterial gastroenteritis, it is essential to consider other potential causes and seek medical advice, especially if symptoms worsen or do not improve. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

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