Persistent Fever: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist

What could this possibly be, and which department should I visit?

Started experiencing a fever around midnight on August 1st (ranging from 37.5 to 38 degrees Celsius).
Throughout the day on August 1st, I took four doses of pain-relieving and fever-reducing medication (Bole) but the fever did not subside.
On August 2nd, I switched to taking Paracetamol (Panadol) and since then, I have been experiencing recurrent fevers, occurring 3 to 4 times (with normal temperature at 36 degrees Celsius when not feverish, and 37.5 to 38 degrees Celsius during fever).
The fever seems to fluctuate independently of the antipyretics; sometimes it resolves on its own without medication, while other times, even after taking Panadol and Voren, my temperature remains at 37.8 degrees Celsius after 6 hours.
Additionally, I experience a bitter taste when eating or drinking (which is absent when not eating), and both sports drinks and chicken have astringent sensations.
During fever episodes, I also feel dizzy and have noticed small red spots on my tongue (which are not painful).
I have tested negative for COVID-19, confirming that it is not a confirmed case.
On August 1st, I had a sore throat, which resolved by August 2nd, but I have since developed a cough and runny nose (which continue to persist).

Liu Xiansheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/03

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! It is recommended that you visit a family medicine clinic.

Reply Date: 2023/08/03

More Info

When experiencing persistent fever, especially when it lasts for several days and is accompanied by other symptoms, it is essential to consult a family medicine specialist or healthcare provider. In your case, the fever began on August 1st and has persisted with fluctuations between 37.5°C and 38°C, despite taking antipyretics like Berocca and Panadol. The fact that the fever has not resolved and has been accompanied by other symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and a bitter taste when eating or drinking warrants further investigation.

Persistent fever can be indicative of various underlying conditions, ranging from viral infections to bacterial infections, and even more serious conditions such as autoimmune diseases or malignancies. Given that you have already tested negative for COVID-19, it is crucial to consider other potential causes. The presence of a sore throat initially, followed by cough and nasal discharge, suggests that you may be dealing with a viral upper respiratory infection, such as the common cold or influenza. However, the ongoing fever and the new symptoms, including the bitter taste and the appearance of red spots on your tongue, could indicate a more complex issue that requires medical evaluation.

Here are some reasons why you should see a family medicine specialist:
1. Comprehensive Evaluation: A family medicine specialist can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history and physical examination. They can assess your symptoms in the context of your overall health and any underlying conditions you may have.

2. Diagnostic Testing: Depending on your symptoms and examination findings, the doctor may recommend laboratory tests, such as blood tests, throat swabs, or imaging studies, to identify the underlying cause of your fever. This is particularly important if there are signs of a bacterial infection or other serious conditions.

3. Management of Symptoms: While over-the-counter medications can help manage fever and discomfort, a healthcare provider can prescribe more effective treatments if necessary. They can also provide guidance on hydration and nutrition, especially since you mentioned experiencing a bitter taste when eating or drinking.

4. Monitoring for Complications: Persistent fever can lead to complications if not addressed. A healthcare provider can monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed to prevent any worsening of your symptoms or development of complications.

5. Referral to Specialists: If your family medicine specialist suspects a more serious underlying condition, they can refer you to the appropriate specialist for further evaluation and treatment.

In summary, given the duration of your fever, the fluctuation in temperature, and the accompanying symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention from a family medicine specialist. They can provide a comprehensive assessment, appropriate diagnostic testing, and tailored treatment to address your symptoms and underlying condition effectively. Remember, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to reach out for medical help.

Similar Q&A

Persistent Fever for Three Weeks: What Specialist Should You Consult?

My sister, who is 25 years old, developed a fever at the end of April and sought medical attention. Initially, she had a sore throat, and the ENT doctor diagnosed her with a cold. After taking medication for three days, her fever did not subside, so she returned for a follow-up. ...

Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
It sounds most like an autoimmune issue. I recommend consulting a rheumatologist, but many details still need to be assessed in person by your sister. You might also consider seeing an infectious disease specialist for further evaluation regarding the unexplained fever. If it is ...

Persistent Fever: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention?

I have had a continuous fever for two days, with a temperature of 37.3 degrees Celsius. I saw a doctor yesterday who prescribed antipyretics, and I took one dose yesterday and another today, but the fever persists. I also have cold symptoms and a cough. Do I need to see a doctor ...

Dr. Chen Mengkan reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, it is not possible to determine whether you need to visit a major hospital. However, I would recommend that you first consult with the physician you previously saw for an evaluation to check if there are any improvements in other clinic...

Persistent Fever and Chest Discomfort: When to See a Cardiologist?

Hello doctor, about two months ago I had a severe cold, and my cough lasted for about a month before it improved. After that, I started experiencing abdominal pain and vomiting. I first went to the gastroenterology clinic, where blood tests showed some inflammatory response. An u...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, if you have a fever, it is advisable to first consult an infectious disease specialist. If there are any concerns, that specialist will coordinate with other relevant departments. It will be handled by the infectious disease physician. Take care from Changhua Hospital.

Choosing the Right Specialist: Immunology, Infectious Disease, or Hematology?

Hello, Director. I would like to ask which department I should consult for the following situation: A few years ago, I was hospitalized for 9 days due to a high fever. Blood tests and multiple examinations were conducted, but ultimately it was concluded as an unexplained fever. T...

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for further evaluation. Of course, recurrent infection issues should be appropriately treated. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hosp...