Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Discomfort

Body temperature issues

Hello Doctor, on April 21, I experienced mild throat irritation and phlegm, along with a slight fever starting after 5 PM (around 37 degrees Celsius).
After a week without improvement, I visited a family medicine clinic on April 30.
Since my father had a mycoplasma infection in early April, I informed the doctor about it.
An X-ray was taken, which showed phlegm in the lungs and a small area of inflammation.
I was prescribed a 3-day course of antibiotics.
After taking the antibiotics, I had a few days without fever, but then my temperature rose again to just over 37 degrees.
I followed up with the doctor several times, and on May 12, the doctor said my temperature was normal and did not perform any blood tests.
Since then, I still occasionally have a temperature above 37 degrees, although it has been less frequent over the past week.
I would like to ask if this temperature is considered normal? (Recorded temperatures: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1XlsswtLr_SI_PkXHIVcLSsLezxTkqOb5).
Additionally, I have been feeling a persistent sensation of phlegm in my throat, and I often experience burping and sometimes acid reflux.
Can mycoplasma cause gastroesophageal reflux disease?

Huang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/26

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, a body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius is still within the normal range.
However, it is advisable to continue monitoring any changes in temperature.
Additionally, the association between mycoplasma and gastroesophageal reflux disease is likely minimal.
If you have symptoms, it is best to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis, as online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide a diagnosis or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2020/05/26

More Info

Persistent low-grade fever and throat discomfort can be concerning symptoms, especially when they linger for an extended period. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing mild throat irritation, phlegm, and a low-grade fever (around 37 degrees Celsius) since April 21. You mentioned that your father had a mycoplasma infection, which could be relevant to your symptoms, as mycoplasma can cause respiratory infections.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that a low-grade fever is generally defined as a body temperature that is slightly elevated, typically between 37.1°C (98.8°F) and 38.3°C (100.9°F). This can be a normal response to infection or inflammation in the body. Since your fever has persisted for over a week, it’s reasonable to be concerned, especially if it fluctuates and is accompanied by other symptoms like throat discomfort and phlegm.

The fact that you were prescribed antibiotics suggests that your healthcare provider suspected a bacterial infection. However, mycoplasma infections are often treated with specific antibiotics, such as azithromycin or doxycycline, rather than standard antibiotics that target typical bacterial infections. If your symptoms did not improve significantly after the antibiotic course, it may indicate that the treatment was not fully effective against the specific pathogen involved.

Regarding your throat discomfort and the sensation of phlegm, these can be symptoms of several conditions, including post-nasal drip, allergies, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). You mentioned experiencing acid reflux symptoms, such as burping and a sensation of stomach acid, which can indeed be exacerbated by throat irritation. While mycoplasma itself does not directly cause GERD, the stress on your body from an ongoing infection could potentially worsen reflux symptoms.

It’s also worth noting that persistent throat discomfort and low-grade fever can be signs of other underlying conditions, such as chronic sinusitis, allergies, or even more serious infections. If your symptoms continue or worsen, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further investigations, such as blood tests, throat cultures, or imaging studies, to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.

In summary, while a low-grade fever can be a normal response to infection, persistent symptoms warrant further evaluation. It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your ongoing symptoms, including the throat discomfort and any gastrointestinal issues. They can help determine the best course of action, whether that involves adjusting your treatment plan or exploring additional diagnostic options. Remember, your health is paramount, and seeking clarity on your symptoms is a vital step in ensuring proper care.

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