Unexplained High Fever and Headache: Possible Neurological Issues? - Neurology

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Unexplained high fever and headache?


Hello, Doctor.
On the morning of September 6th, I experienced a sudden high fever reaching 40 degrees Celsius accompanied by severe headaches.
After taking antipyretics, my temperature dropped to 38 degrees, but it did not return to normal.
I did not have any cold symptoms (such as nasal congestion, cough, or sore throat), and I went to the emergency room that afternoon.
Emergency tests revealed a white blood cell count of 25,000 and an inflammatory index of 30.
A CT scan showed no abnormalities, and I was prescribed antibiotics and other medications to rest at home.
Although the fever subsided, the headache persisted.

On the morning of September 9th, I had another fever reaching 38 degrees, and despite continuous use of antibiotics and pain relievers, the headache remained.
Therefore, I returned to the emergency room.
Further tests showed a white blood cell count of 22,000 and an inflammatory index of 24.
I also reported lower back pain on both September 6th and 9th, and on September 9th, I was unable to bend over.
After receiving an antibiotic injection in the emergency room on September 9th, the doctor determined I could go home since the fever had subsided.
However, today (September 10th), the headache continues, and I have noticed purulent discharge from the urethral opening, although urination is not painful.
Current condition: No fever, persistent headache, lower back pain, urethral discharge (white), slight dizziness, occasional visual disturbances, and difficulty taking deep breaths.
The emergency physician advised me to see a neurologist, but all nearby hospitals' neurology departments are fully booked and not accepting appointments.
I would like to ask the doctor what my current condition might indicate, whether the referral to neurology is appropriate, and if it is necessary to travel to a medical center in another city.

Zheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/10

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello: I apologize for the late response to your question.
You mentioned experiencing headaches, lower back pain, white discharge from the urethra, mild dizziness, occasional visual disturbances, and difficulty taking deep breaths.
These symptoms may suggest an infection, particularly a urinary tract infection.
However, urinary tract infections are less common in males, so we must also consider sexually transmitted infections as a potential diagnosis.
Since infections can be acute, if your symptoms persist, you should seek emergency medical attention.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to consult a neurologist regarding your related symptoms.
Neurology clinics primarily address chronic conditions or mild cases.
Wishing you good health and well-being.
Dr.
Jiang, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2019/09/10

More Info


Based on your symptoms and the sequence of events you've described, it seems that you are experiencing a complex medical situation that warrants careful consideration. The combination of high fever, severe headache, elevated white blood cell count, and the presence of white discharge from the urethra suggests that there may be an underlying infection or inflammatory process at play.
Initially, the high fever and headache could indicate a viral or bacterial infection. The fact that you had a fever reaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) is concerning, especially since it was accompanied by severe headache and elevated inflammatory markers. The absence of typical cold symptoms (like nasal congestion or sore throat) further complicates the picture, as it suggests that this may not be a straightforward upper respiratory infection.

The elevated white blood cell count (25,000 and later 22,000) indicates that your body is fighting an infection. The inflammatory index of 30 and 24 also supports this notion. The CT scan being normal is a good sign, as it rules out some serious conditions like a brain abscess or other structural abnormalities. However, the persistence of your headache and the new symptom of white discharge from the urethra raises the possibility of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or even a sexually transmitted infection (STI), especially since you mentioned the discharge.

The back pain you are experiencing could also be related to a kidney infection, which can occur if bacteria travel from the bladder to the kidneys. This could explain the combination of fever, headache, and back pain. The fact that you are experiencing dizziness and occasional visual disturbances could be related to the headache or possibly a side effect of medications you are taking.

Given that your symptoms have not improved significantly and you are still experiencing headaches and other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to seek further medical evaluation. While the emergency department has provided some initial care, the recommendation to see a neurologist is appropriate, especially if your symptoms persist. Neurologists specialize in conditions affecting the nervous system, and they can help determine if there is a neurological cause for your headaches.

If local neurologists are unavailable, it may be necessary to consider traveling to a medical center that can provide the necessary care. However, before making that decision, it would be wise to consult with your primary care physician or the emergency department again. They may be able to provide a referral or suggest alternative options for care.

In summary, your symptoms could be indicative of an infection, possibly involving the urinary tract or kidneys, and the persistent headache may require further neurological evaluation. It is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms closely and seek medical attention if they worsen or if new symptoms arise. Your health is paramount, and ensuring you receive the appropriate care is crucial in managing your condition effectively.

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