Persistent High Body Temperature and Dizziness After Infection - Family Medicine

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Persistent high body temperature and dizziness can be concerning symptoms, especially following a significant bacterial infection. Your experience of elevated ear temperature ranging from 37.4 to 37.8 degrees Celsius, along with feelings of internal heat and dizziness, warrants a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying causes.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that a body temperature above the normal range (typically around 36.1 to 37.2 degrees Celsius) can indicate several conditions. In your case, the persistent elevated temperature could be a remnant of the previous infection, as the body sometimes continues to exhibit inflammatory responses even after the initial infection has resolved. This phenomenon is often referred to as post-infectious syndrome, where symptoms linger due to the body’s immune response.

The dizziness you are experiencing, particularly when changing positions, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is orthostatic hypotension, which occurs when blood pressure drops significantly upon standing or changing positions, leading to dizziness. This can be exacerbated by dehydration, which is common after infections, or by medications that may affect blood pressure. It’s essential to monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially when experiencing these symptoms.

The presence of protein in your urine is another important finding. While it may not directly correlate with your fever and dizziness, it could indicate kidney involvement or other systemic issues that need further investigation. Conditions such as nephritis or other kidney disorders can lead to proteinuria and may also contribute to systemic symptoms like fever.

Regarding your concerns about potential tumors, while it’s understandable to worry about past findings such as fibroids or breast lumps, the likelihood of these being directly responsible for your current symptoms is relatively low. However, any changes in your health status, especially concerning persistent fever and systemic symptoms, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Tumors can sometimes cause systemic symptoms, but they typically present with other signs, such as weight loss, changes in appetite, or localized symptoms depending on their location.

Given your symptoms and history, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Specialist: Since you have a history of fibroids and breast lumps, it would be prudent to consult a gynecologist for the fibroids and a breast specialist for the breast lump. They can perform necessary imaging studies or biopsies if needed to rule out any malignancy.

2. Infectious Disease Evaluation: Given the history of infection and persistent symptoms, seeing an infectious disease specialist may provide insights into whether there is a lingering infection or another underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

3. Neurological Assessment: Since you have experienced dizziness, a follow-up with a neurologist may be beneficial to rule out any neurological causes, especially if the dizziness persists or worsens.

4. General Health Check: A comprehensive evaluation by your primary care physician, including blood tests to assess kidney function, liver function, and inflammatory markers, can help identify any underlying systemic issues.

5. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are adequately hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your recovery. Sometimes, simple measures can significantly impact overall well-being.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to the aftermath of an infection, it is crucial to pursue a thorough evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Persistent high body temperature and dizziness should not be ignored, and seeking appropriate medical advice is essential for your health and peace of mind.