Is Fever and Chills Normal After Gonorrhea Treatment? - Urology

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After receiving treatment for gonorrhea, experiencing fever and chills can be concerning, but it is not uncommon. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and treatment typically involves antibiotics, which can sometimes lead to a reaction in the body as it fights off the infection.

When you received the injection and oral medication, your body began to respond to the treatment. The sudden onset of chills and mild fever (37.5 degrees Celsius) the following night could be attributed to several factors:
1. Immune Response: After antibiotic treatment, your immune system may react to the dying bacteria, leading to symptoms like fever and chills. This is a part of the inflammatory response, where your body is working to eliminate the infection. It’s similar to what happens when you receive a vaccine; your body reacts to the foreign substance, which can cause temporary symptoms.

2. Post-Treatment Reaction: Some individuals may experience a mild systemic reaction after receiving antibiotics, especially if the infection was severe. This can manifest as fever, chills, or even mild headaches as your body adjusts to the changes.

3. Infection Resolution: As the infection resolves, your body may go through a phase where it experiences symptoms like fever and chills. This can be a sign that the treatment is working, and your body is clearing out the infection.

4. Other Causes: While it’s less likely, it’s also important to consider that other infections or conditions could be present. If you were exposed to other pathogens, this could explain the fever and chills.
Regarding your concern about HIV, it’s understandable to feel anxious, especially after experiencing symptoms that can overlap with those of other infections. However, the symptoms you described (fever, chills, and mild headache) are not specific to HIV and can occur with many other conditions, including common viral infections or reactions to medications.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as a high fever, severe headache, or rash, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform appropriate tests to rule out other infections, including HIV, and provide reassurance or treatment as necessary.

In summary, mild fever and chills after gonorrhea treatment can be a normal part of your body’s response to the infection and the antibiotics. However, monitoring your symptoms and staying in touch with your healthcare provider is essential to ensure a full recovery and to address any concerns you may have. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation.