Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms

Temperature issues

Hello Doctor, I started experiencing a sore throat on December 20th of last year and sought treatment.
After finishing the first course of medication, my symptoms changed to a scratchy throat and coughing.
I continued to return for follow-up visits and received more medication.
Eventually, I felt some improvement, with a noticeable reduction in coughing, but I still occasionally felt the need to clear my throat, as if there was phlegm stuck.
Sometimes, the cough would lead to vomiting stomach acid or food.
Due to the ongoing cough, I sought medical attention again on January 9th, where the doctor noted a low-grade fever (ear temperature of 37.8°C) and advised me to monitor my temperature.
Later, as my temperature remained elevated and my throat continued to show signs of inflammation along with mild coughing, I visited the infectious disease department on January 13th.
During the consultation, my forehead temperature indicated that I did not have a fever.
An X-ray was performed, which showed phlegm in the lungs and a small area of inflammation.
I was prescribed a three-day course of antibiotics and had blood tests to check for inflammatory markers.
The doctor ruled out the possibility of COVID-19.
From January 13th to January 27th, I continued to have a low-grade fever ranging from 37.5°C to 37.9°C, occasionally reaching 38°C, but I did not feel particularly unwell, and my activity level remained normal with regular meals.
The blood test results were normal, and after two weeks of medication, my cough improved.
Currently, I no longer have a cough, but sometimes I feel a sensation of something stuck in my throat (at the base of my neck), and occasionally I experience slight pain below my collarbone.
My morning temperature is around 37°C to 37.6°C, while in the afternoon to evening, it tends to be higher, around 37.6°C to 37.8°C.
After 10 PM, my temperature usually drops to about 37.4°C to 37°C, and I have not exceeded 38°C.
Since I do not have any other discomfort, I am uncertain if this is considered normal or if I need to seek further medical attention.
Thank you.

K, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/21

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, your body temperature is indeed slightly elevated, especially if it frequently exceeds 37.5°C.
It is important to pay attention to this; if there are no specific symptoms of infection, it may be necessary to consider atypical infections or other factors such as rheumatological issues, allergies, or hematological problems.
It is advisable to keep a record of your temperature.
If it exceeds 37.5°C multiple times, you can bring the record to an infectious disease clinic for further discussion.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/02/21

More Info

Persistent low-grade fever, particularly when accompanied by throat symptoms, can be a source of concern for many individuals. Based on your description, it appears that you have been experiencing a series of symptoms that have fluctuated over time, including throat pain, cough, and low-grade fever. Understanding the underlying causes and appropriate management of these symptoms is crucial.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that a low-grade fever is generally defined as a body temperature ranging from 37.5°C (99.5°F) to 38.3°C (100.9°F). This can be a normal physiological response to various conditions, including infections, inflammatory processes, or even stress. In your case, the persistent low-grade fever, along with throat discomfort and occasional cough, suggests that there may still be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

The fact that you have already consulted with healthcare professionals and undergone tests, including X-rays and blood tests, is a positive step. The X-ray indicating some phlegm and mild inflammation in the lungs, along with the prescribed antibiotics, suggests that there may have been a respiratory infection that is now resolving. However, the ongoing symptoms, such as the sensation of mucus in the throat and the occasional cough, indicate that your body may still be recovering from the initial infection.

It is also worth noting that the fluctuation in your body temperature throughout the day is not uncommon. Many individuals experience variations in temperature due to factors such as physical activity, hydration status, and even the time of day. Typically, body temperature is lower in the morning and can rise slightly in the afternoon and evening. Your reported temperatures of 37.0°C to 37.8°C throughout the day fall within the range of a low-grade fever but are not excessively high.

Given that you have not experienced any significant worsening of symptoms, such as increased fever, severe pain, or new symptoms, it may not be necessary to seek immediate medical attention. However, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any of the following, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider:
1. Worsening Fever: If your temperature exceeds 38.3°C (100.9°F) consistently or if you experience chills or sweats.

2. Increased Throat Pain: If your throat pain worsens or if you develop difficulty swallowing or breathing.

3. New Symptoms: The emergence of new symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or significant fatigue.

4. Duration of Symptoms: If your low-grade fever persists for an extended period (more than a few weeks) without improvement.

In the meantime, consider the following self-care measures to support your recovery:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus and keep your throat moist.

- Rest: Ensure you are getting adequate rest to allow your body to heal.

- Humidify the Air: Using a humidifier can help ease throat discomfort and coughing.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your temperature and any changes in symptoms to discuss with your healthcare provider if needed.

In summary, while your current symptoms may be a continuation of a previous respiratory infection, it is essential to remain vigilant and consult with a healthcare provider if your condition changes or worsens. Your body's response to infection can vary, and sometimes it takes time for symptoms to fully resolve.

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