Post-Fever Complications: Insights from Neurology

Q: Post-Fever Complications: Insights from Neurology

Hello： According to your description, there are many causes of tinnitus, including external auditory canal inflammation, foreign body obstruction, and earwax buildup, all of which can lead to tinnitus. <br>Even tooth extraction and temporomandibular joint inflammation can trigger

Post-fever sequelae

Hello, doctor.
After I had an eye stone removed from my upper eyelid, I may not have had clean hands and rubbed my eyes.
The next morning, I started to have a fever.
At that time, I was home alone and couldn't find a thermometer.
I felt very tired and wanted to sleep, and I was feeling cold, so I covered myself with a thick blanket to sleep.
This happened around June last year, and I didn't turn on the air conditioning.
I slept until the afternoon and started sweating, so I switched to a lighter blanket, and by evening, the fever subsided.

Doctor, am I at risk of having a fever over 41 degrees Celsius, and could the high temperature under the thick blanket have caused brain damage? Since this fever, I have experienced tinnitus.
If there was indeed brain damage due to the high temperature, what kind of sequelae could I expect, and what tests can be done to check for this?

A Yan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/26

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: According to your description, there are many causes of tinnitus, including external auditory canal inflammation, foreign body obstruction, and earwax buildup, all of which can lead to tinnitus.
Even tooth extraction and temporomandibular joint inflammation can trigger tinnitus.
Some individuals may experience tinnitus due to fluid accumulation in the middle ear and dysfunction of the Eustachian tube; tinnitus caused by issues in the middle ear or external ear is often low-frequency.
On the other hand, high-frequency tinnitus may be attributed to disturbances in the cochlea and auditory nerve of the inner ear, which can result from prolonged exposure to noisy environments, medication use, and inflammation of the inner ear, potentially damaging the auditory nerve or cranial nerves.
It is recommended that you consult with an otolaryngologist and a neurologist for evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang, Department of Internal Medicine, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2019/03/26

More Info

Fever is a common physiological response to infection or inflammation, and while it can be uncomfortable, it is typically a protective mechanism of the body. However, when fever reaches extreme levels, particularly above 41 degrees Celsius (105.8 degrees Fahrenheit), there is a potential risk for neurological complications, including brain damage. This condition is known as hyperthermia, and it can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications.

In your case, it seems that your fever was self-limiting and resolved within a day, which is a positive sign. The fact that you experienced fatigue and chills, followed by sweating, indicates that your body was actively fighting off an infection. The subsequent development of tinnitus (ear ringing) could be related to several factors, including the fever itself, an underlying infection, or even stress and anxiety related to your illness.

When the body experiences high temperatures, the brain can be affected, particularly if the fever is prolonged or reaches extreme levels. Potential neurological complications from severe hyperthermia can include:
1. Cerebral Edema: Swelling of the brain, which can lead to increased intracranial pressure.

2. Seizures: High fever can trigger seizures, particularly in children, but adults can also be affected.

3. Cognitive Impairment: Prolonged high fever can lead to confusion, memory issues, and other cognitive deficits.

4. Neurological Damage: In extreme cases, high temperatures can cause irreversible damage to brain cells.

Regarding your concern about whether your fever could have caused brain damage, it is important to note that a brief episode of fever, even at high temperatures, does not always lead to significant neurological harm. The brain is quite resilient, and many individuals recover fully from high fevers without lasting effects. However, if you are experiencing persistent symptoms such as tinnitus, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.

To assess any potential neurological impact, a healthcare provider may recommend several diagnostic tests, including:
- MRI or CT Scan: These imaging studies can help visualize any structural changes in the brain.

- Electroencephalogram (EEG): This test measures electrical activity in the brain and can help identify any abnormal brain activity.

- Blood Tests: To check for signs of infection or inflammation that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, while high fever can pose risks, the likelihood of significant brain damage from a short episode of fever is relatively low. However, persistent symptoms like tinnitus warrant further investigation. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate management based on your specific symptoms and medical history. Early intervention can help address any underlying issues and improve your overall health outcomes.

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