Fever and Eye Pain: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Fever with pain when moving the eyes?

Hello, Doctor.
I started experiencing a mild cough on Friday (about once every five minutes), but my temperature was normal.
On Saturday afternoon, I checked my temperature and found I had a fever of 38 degrees Celsius.
I also felt pain around my eye sockets when moving my eyes up, down, or sideways.
My heart rate has been faster than usual; normally, my heart rate is around 60 beats per minute, but it has been over 90 all day, and I couldn't bring it down while sleeping.
However, my cough has not worsened, and I feel generally well.
I do not have muscle soreness, nausea, or chills, and I do not feel excessively sleepy.
In short, aside from my eyes, I have almost no discomfort.
If I hadn't checked my temperature, I wouldn't have realized I had a fever, but my temperature has consistently been above 38 degrees Celsius, and my heart rate has been unusually fast (around 100 beats per minute).
It wasn't until I took Tylenol in the evening that my temperature slightly decreased.
This morning, it was around 37.3 degrees Celsius, but I still feel pain around my eye sockets.
The clinics are closed on weekends, so I have to wait until Monday to see a doctor.
I would like to ask you what might be wrong with me.
Thank you, Doctor.

Xiao Zhang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/04

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, based on the description, there is still a fever present.
It is recommended to visit the Infectious Disease Clinic for further evaluation, and then determine if a referral to an ophthalmologist is necessary.
Please note that online consultations do not equate to in-person medical visits, and they cannot provide accurate diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/02/04

More Info

When experiencing symptoms such as fever and eye pain, it is crucial to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, you have been experiencing a mild cough, fever (up to 38 degrees Celsius), and pain around the eye area when moving your eyes. Additionally, you noted an increased heart rate and persistent eye discomfort.
Firstly, the combination of fever and eye pain can indicate several conditions, ranging from benign to more serious issues. Common causes of fever include viral infections, such as the flu or a cold, which can sometimes lead to secondary symptoms like sinusitis or conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye). The eye pain you are experiencing could be related to sinus pressure, especially if you have had nasal congestion or sinus issues accompanying your cough.
Another possibility is that the fever and eye pain could be related to a viral or bacterial infection that directly affects the eye, such as viral conjunctivitis or even more serious conditions like uveitis or keratitis. These conditions can cause pain, redness, and sensitivity to light, and they may require specific treatments.
The increased heart rate you mentioned (tachycardia) can be a response to fever, as the body works harder to fight off infection. It is not uncommon for heart rates to increase during illness, especially when fever is present. However, a resting heart rate consistently above 100 beats per minute, particularly if you are not feeling well, warrants further investigation.

Given that your symptoms have persisted and you are experiencing significant discomfort, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible. While waiting for your appointment, you can take some steps to manage your symptoms:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help reduce fever and maintain hydration, especially if you have a cough.

2. Rest: Ensure you are getting enough rest to allow your body to recover.

3. Over-the-Counter Medications: You mentioned taking paracetamol (Tylenol) to help reduce your fever. Continue to use it as needed, following the recommended dosage.

4. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to your eyes may help alleviate some discomfort.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as worsening pain, changes in vision, or new symptoms like nausea or vomiting, which could indicate a more serious condition.

If your symptoms worsen or if you experience additional concerning symptoms, such as severe headache, vision changes, or persistent high fever, seek emergency medical care immediately.
In summary, while your symptoms may be related to a viral infection or sinus issues, the combination of fever and eye pain should not be ignored. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a quicker recovery.

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