Symptoms similar to a cold have persisted for a long time?
Hello Doctor: My symptoms are quite strange.
I seem to have a cold, with persistent fever that subsides after taking medication.
Initially, I experienced chills and felt cold, and this has been going on for two weeks.
Today, my lymph nodes are significantly swollen and painful to touch.
I have some coughing, but no phlegm.
I have seen many doctors who all said it was just a common cold, but when I went to the emergency department at Cathay General Hospital in Hsinchu, the doctor told me that my white blood cell count was lower than normal, below 4500.
However, he still said it was just a common cold, and my chest X-ray showed no abnormalities.
I have never experienced symptoms like this before; I have never had a cold that lasted this long.
If we include this week, it should be almost three weeks now! Currently, I don't know what to do.
It feels like the medications only address the symptoms and not the underlying issue.
I have also received injections, but I am still not better.
Some doctors have suggested that I undergo further testing, but I heard that a full-body examination costs several thousand dollars, and as a student from a less fortunate background, I cannot afford it.
I can only seek advice online and hope that you can help answer my questions.
Thank you!
Xiao Gao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/06/15
Dr. Jian Yingxiu reply Rare Disease
The term "examination" does not necessarily refer to a comprehensive health check-up.
Please consult an internal medicine physician; if necessary, tests related to your symptoms are covered by health insurance.
Reply Date: 2004/06/15
More Info
It sounds like you are experiencing a challenging and frustrating health situation. Persistent symptoms like fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and cough can be concerning, especially when they last for an extended period. While I cannot provide a diagnosis, I can offer some insights into your symptoms and potential next steps.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that the symptoms you describe could be indicative of several conditions. The fact that you have had a fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes suggests that your body is responding to some form of infection or inflammation. Infections can be viral or bacterial, and sometimes, they can present with overlapping symptoms, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause without further testing.
Your white blood cell count being below the normal range (which is typically around 4,500 to 11,000 cells per microliter) could suggest a few things. A low white blood cell count, known as leukopenia, can occur due to various reasons, including viral infections, bone marrow disorders, or autoimmune diseases. However, it’s essential to note that a single lab result does not provide a complete picture of your health.
Given that you have already seen multiple doctors and undergone some tests, it may be beneficial to consider the following steps:
1. Follow-Up with a Specialist: If you haven’t already, consider seeing an infectious disease specialist or a hematologist. They can provide a more in-depth evaluation of your symptoms and lab results. They may recommend additional tests, such as blood cultures, viral panels, or imaging studies, to rule out specific infections or conditions.
2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any other accompanying signs. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps.
3. Consider a Second Opinion: If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion from another physician can provide new insights and potentially different approaches to your care.
4. Lifestyle and Support: While you are navigating this health challenge, ensure you are taking care of your overall well-being. This includes getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or gentle exercise, can also be beneficial.
5. Financial Considerations: If cost is a concern for further testing, discuss this openly with your healthcare provider. They may be able to suggest more affordable options or prioritize tests based on your most pressing symptoms.
6. Mental Health: Chronic illness can take a toll on mental health. If you find yourself feeling anxious or depressed about your health situation, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. They can provide support and coping strategies to help you manage your feelings.
In summary, while it can be frustrating to deal with persistent symptoms that do not seem to resolve, there are steps you can take to seek further evaluation and support. It’s crucial to advocate for your health and ensure that your concerns are taken seriously. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate your health journey.
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