Unexplained Fever and Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns

Fever of unknown origin, body temperature elevation?

Hello, last night after work, I suddenly felt warm, but it wasn't a fever, and my heart was racing.
Today, I'm experiencing the same situation.
I would like to know what could be the cause of this and if it is a medical condition.
Thank you.

Jun, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/02

Dr. Hou Yuchang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello, Mr.
Jun.
Due to the limited information you provided, it is difficult to give a precise answer.
In medical terms, a sensation of warmth is not typically a primary disease symptom and usually needs to be accompanied by other phenomena.
You mentioned that this occurs after returning home from work, along with an increased heart rate; however, without details on aggravating or alleviating factors and other accompanying symptoms, it is challenging to deduce the cause.

From a Western medicine perspective, one might consider whether this is due to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance resulting from work, which has not yet been replenished, leading to vasoconstriction and an increased heart rate, thus causing a slight sensation of warmth.
This condition can often self-correct with proper hydration and electrolyte replenishment, along with adequate rest.
However, if this occurs repeatedly, there is a risk that the body may not be able to readjust.

Another possibility to consider is autonomic nervous system hyperactivity, which may arise from environmental factors causing initial discomfort, prompting the body to self-adjust to these changes, or from medications that stimulate sympathetic nervous system activity (such as those that alleviate fatigue), resulting in increased heart rate and a sensation of warmth as energy accumulates.
This is a normal response.
However, if such symptoms recur without changes in the environment, medication use, or physical discomfort, it may be advisable to consult a specialist in metabolic disorders or family medicine.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, one might consider Yin deficiency or Liver Yang excess.
Yin deficiency is similar to the previously mentioned dehydration and electrolyte imbalance but should also include symptoms such as dry mouth, difficulty quenching thirst, and hard stools.
Appropriate herbal remedies to nourish Yin and clear heat should be used, along with water-rich fruits and vegetables, while avoiding warming tonics.
If Liver Yang excess is suspected, it may be accompanied by symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, and tension, resembling the hyperactivity of the autonomic nervous system in Western medicine.
In this case, herbs to clear the liver and reduce heat should be utilized to help the body relax and self-adjust, again avoiding warming tonics.
These suggestions are for your reference.
Wishing you peace and health.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Hou Yu-Chang, Director of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/08/02

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms with your sudden increase in body temperature and rapid heartbeat. Let's break down what might be happening and explore some potential causes.

Firstly, it's important to differentiate between a fever and a sensation of warmth or increased body temperature. A fever is typically defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) and is usually a sign that your body is fighting an infection. However, you mentioned that you feel warm but are not officially running a fever. This could indicate a few different things.

One possibility is that you are experiencing a physiological response to stress or anxiety. Stress can trigger the body's "fight or flight" response, leading to an increase in heart rate and a sensation of warmth or flushing. This is often accompanied by feelings of nervousness or anxiety, which can exacerbate the physical symptoms. If you have a history of anxiety or panic attacks, this could be a contributing factor.

Another potential cause for your symptoms could be related to hormonal changes in your body. Conditions such as hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland is overactive, can lead to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, increased body temperature, and even feelings of anxiety. If you haven't had your thyroid levels checked recently, it might be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

Infections, even if they are not severe enough to cause a full-blown fever, can also lead to an increase in heart rate and a feeling of warmth. Your body may be responding to a mild infection or inflammation that hasn't yet manifested as a fever. This could include viral infections, which are common and can sometimes present with atypical symptoms.

Additionally, dehydration can lead to an increased heart rate and a feeling of warmth. If you have been working hard or sweating a lot, it's crucial to ensure you are adequately hydrated. Dehydration can strain the cardiovascular system and lead to a rapid heartbeat.

Caffeine and other stimulants can also cause similar symptoms. If you've consumed a lot of coffee, energy drinks, or other stimulants, this could explain your increased heart rate and sensation of warmth. It's advisable to monitor your intake of these substances.

Lastly, it's essential to consider the possibility of an underlying medical condition. While your symptoms may not seem severe, persistent rapid heartbeat and changes in body temperature warrant further investigation. Conditions such as arrhythmias, infections, or even autoimmune disorders could be at play.

In conclusion, while your symptoms could be related to stress, hormonal changes, mild infections, dehydration, or stimulant intake, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend blood tests, including thyroid function tests, and possibly an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess your heart's rhythm. Keeping a record of your symptoms, including when they occur and any associated factors, can also be helpful for your healthcare provider in determining the cause. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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