Persistent Low-Grade Fever After COVID-19: Is It a Long-Term Effect? - Family Medicine

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Persistent low-grade fever after COVID-19 can indeed be a concerning symptom, especially for individuals who have experienced anxiety or other underlying health conditions. Your situation, where you have a consistent body temperature ranging between 37.0°C and 37.5°C, while normalizing in the morning, raises several points worth discussing.

Firstly, it is important to understand that low-grade fever can be a common symptom following a viral infection, including COVID-19. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "post-viral syndrome" or "long COVID." While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it is believed that the immune system may remain activated even after the virus has been cleared from the body, leading to persistent symptoms such as fatigue, low-grade fever, and other systemic effects.

In your case, the fact that your fever is more pronounced later in the day could suggest a few things. One possibility is that your body is still responding to the viral infection, and this response may fluctuate based on various factors, including physical activity, stress levels, and even the time of day. The body's circadian rhythm can influence body temperature, which might explain why you experience a normal temperature in the morning but a slight increase later on.

Regarding your anxiety, it is well-documented that anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, including the perception of fever. The mind-body connection is powerful; stress and anxiety can lead to increased muscle tension, changes in heart rate, and even fluctuations in body temperature. Therefore, addressing your anxiety through relaxation techniques, therapy, or medication may help alleviate some of the physical symptoms you are experiencing.

You mentioned having undergone extensive testing, including cancer screenings and blood tests, which returned mostly normal results aside from elevated liver function and moderate fatty liver. While these findings are significant, they may not directly correlate with your persistent low-grade fever. Fatty liver disease can sometimes lead to inflammation, which might contribute to a mild increase in body temperature, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to explore this further.

In terms of management, it is crucial to continue monitoring your symptoms and maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. If your fever persists or worsens, or if you develop new symptoms, further investigation may be warranted. This could include imaging studies, additional blood tests, or referrals to specialists, such as an infectious disease expert or a hepatologist, to address your liver concerns.

In summary, while persistent low-grade fever can be a lingering effect of COVID-19, it is essential to consider other factors, including anxiety and underlying health conditions. Maintaining a holistic approach to your health, addressing both physical and mental well-being, and working closely with your healthcare team will be key in managing your symptoms and improving your overall quality of life. If you have not already, consider discussing your anxiety with a mental health professional, as this could provide additional support and coping strategies during your recovery.