Persistent Body Heat: Possible Causes and Solutions

The body may experience an increase in temperature?

Since I was a child, I have experienced unexplained episodes of fever.
Often, I wake up in the middle of the night feeling hot.
As I have gotten older, the fevers have become more intense and painful.
During cold weather, my body can feel hot for several hours, and my hands often become dry and cracked, sometimes even bleeding.
I have been relying on traditional Chinese medicine to manage this condition.
There was a time when it improved, but after experiencing sudden stomach pain for two days, the fever returned.
I had an endoscopy done a long time ago, and the doctor said everything was fine, but I was still experiencing stomach pain and fever at that time.
I am unsure if there is an issue with my digestive system that is causing the fever, as my mother mentioned that I had this problem since birth.
When she asked doctors about it, they said it was "stomach heat." However, the heat is so intense that it disrupts my sleep, and I am uncertain about the underlying issue.
Blood tests have shown no problems, and I don't know what further tests to pursue.
Typically, my sleep is troubled by intense heat and pain, which only subsides by morning, leading to years of insomnia.
Can you please reply to me via email? Thank you.

maicr, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/12/19

Dr. He Liangzhi reply Surgery

For non-surgical issues, please consult a gastroenterologist.

Reply Date: 2006/12/19

More Info

Persistent body heat can be a perplexing and uncomfortable issue, especially when it disrupts sleep and daily activities. Your description of experiencing unexplained warmth, particularly at night, along with episodes of stomach pain, suggests that there may be several underlying factors contributing to your symptoms.

Firstly, it's important to consider the possibility of hyperthermia, which is an elevated body temperature that can occur due to various reasons. This can be a result of environmental factors, such as high ambient temperatures, or internal factors, including infections, hormonal imbalances, or metabolic disorders. Given your history of feeling excessively warm, it may be worthwhile to explore whether any of these factors are at play.

1. Infections: Chronic infections can lead to persistent low-grade fevers. Conditions such as viral infections, bacterial infections, or even conditions like tuberculosis can cause prolonged warmth. If you have had any recent illnesses or infections, this could be a contributing factor.

2. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those related to the thyroid gland, can lead to increased body temperature. Hyperthyroidism, for instance, can cause symptoms such as heat intolerance, weight loss, and increased sweating. It may be beneficial to have your thyroid levels checked if you haven't done so recently.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Your mention of stomach pain and previous gastrointestinal evaluations raises the possibility of digestive disorders. Conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even food intolerances can lead to systemic symptoms, including warmth and discomfort. The concept of "stomach heat" that your mother mentioned could relate to traditional Chinese medicine, where certain foods and lifestyle factors are believed to contribute to internal heat. It might be useful to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation, especially if your symptoms persist.

4. Sleep Disorders: The impact of sleep disturbances on body temperature regulation cannot be overlooked. Conditions such as sleep apnea or insomnia can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, which may manifest as increased body temperature and sweating during the night. If you frequently wake up feeling overheated, a sleep study might be warranted to rule out any underlying sleep disorders.

5. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can also lead to physical symptoms, including increased body temperature. If you have been experiencing significant stress, it may be worth exploring relaxation techniques or speaking with a mental health professional.

6. Lifestyle Factors: Diet and hydration play crucial roles in body temperature regulation. Consuming spicy foods, alcohol, or caffeine can exacerbate feelings of warmth. Ensuring adequate hydration and a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help alleviate some of your symptoms.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and their impact on your quality of life, I recommend seeking a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional. This may include blood tests to check for infections, hormonal levels, and other metabolic markers, as well as a thorough review of your medical history and lifestyle factors.
In the meantime, consider keeping a symptom diary to track when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and managing your condition effectively.

Lastly, while it may be tempting to rely solely on traditional remedies, it’s essential to integrate these with conventional medical advice to ensure a holistic approach to your health. Please remember that persistent symptoms warrant professional evaluation, and you deserve to find relief and answers to your discomfort.

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