Fever and Symptoms in Gastroenteritis: What You Need to Know - Internal Medicine

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Gastroenteritis with fever


Hello Doctor,
I started experiencing diarrhea around July 23 after consuming expired milk.
I visited a doctor on July 25 and was diagnosed with gastroenteritis.
After finishing the medication, I thought I had recovered, so on the following Friday (July 29), I ate greasy food for lunch and dinner.
Later that evening, around 9 PM, I felt some acid reflux.
I assumed it was just undigested food, so I took a 10-minute walk.
Since I have a habit of exercising, I then used an abdominal roller for about 15 minutes.

The next day (July 30), I began to have a fever in the early morning, with a temperature around 37.5-38 degrees Celsius, along with abdominal bloating, but I did not feel nauseous or have diarrhea.
I went to see a doctor first thing in the morning, but the diagnosis was made quite quickly (in about 5 minutes), which made me worry about a possible misdiagnosis.
I had a fever all day accompanied by a headache and mild stomach pain, and my temperature kept rising.
After taking the medication prescribed by the doctor, my fever would slightly decrease, but it would rise again once the medication wore off.
By early Sunday (July 31), my fever reached 39 degrees Celsius.
I was hesitant to rely on antipyretics, so I let the fever run its course.

I had one episode of diarrhea in the early morning, but the amount was not as much as during my initial gastroenteritis diagnosis, and the stool color has been normal since then.
This morning around 6 AM, after having breakfast and taking fever-reducing medication, my temperature rose again in the afternoon to 38.4 degrees Celsius.
I am very concerned about whether gastroenteritis can cause a fever for so many days, or if I might have some other underlying condition.

Additionally, my diet from yesterday to today has consisted of congee and white toast, and I have been drinking plenty of water.
Initially, I experienced chills with the fever, which later turned into heat.

Thank you for your help.

Ye Chuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/31

Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine


Hello: It is difficult to determine the cause of the fever based on the above description.
Some individuals with gastroenteritis may indeed have a prolonged fever, but it is generally uncommon for a fever to last more than a week.
If you are still experiencing a fever, it is advisable to consult an infectious disease specialist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2022/07/31

More Info


It sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of symptoms that can be quite concerning. Based on your description, it appears that you have had a recent episode of gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines often caused by viral or bacterial infections. The symptoms you are experiencing, including fever, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits, can indeed be associated with gastroenteritis.

1. Understanding Your Symptoms: The fever you are experiencing, which has reached up to 39 degrees Celsius, is not uncommon in cases of gastroenteritis. The body often responds to infection with a fever as part of the immune response. The abdominal pain and bloating you mentioned could be due to the irritation and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It's also worth noting that the consumption of greasy foods after a period of gastrointestinal distress can exacerbate symptoms, as your digestive system may still be sensitive.

2. Duration of Symptoms: Gastroenteritis can indeed cause prolonged symptoms, including fever, for several days. In many cases, viral gastroenteritis can last anywhere from a few days to a week. However, if your fever persists beyond a few days or worsens, it is crucial to seek further medical evaluation. Persistent fever can sometimes indicate a secondary infection or another underlying condition that may need to be addressed.

3. Potential for Misdiagnosis: It is understandable to be concerned about a potential misdiagnosis, especially if you feel that your symptoms are not improving as expected. If you feel that your doctor did not fully assess your condition, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion. Additional tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies, may be warranted to rule out other conditions, including appendicitis, pancreatitis, or other infections.

4. Management of Symptoms: While it is important to manage your fever, relying solely on antipyretics (fever-reducing medications) is not always the best approach. It is essential to stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing any diarrhea. Clear fluids, electrolyte solutions, and bland foods like rice and toast can help settle your stomach. If you continue to experience significant abdominal pain, fever, or if your symptoms worsen, you should return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

5. When to Seek Help: If your fever persists for more than a few days, if you experience severe abdominal pain, or if you notice any signs of dehydration (such as decreased urination, dizziness, or dry mouth), you should seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, if you experience any new symptoms, such as vomiting blood or having blood in your stools, these are signs that require immediate medical evaluation.

In conclusion, while gastroenteritis can cause prolonged symptoms, it is essential to monitor your condition closely. If you have any doubts about your diagnosis or treatment plan, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and well-being are paramount, and ensuring that you receive the appropriate care is crucial.

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