Nighttime Fever: Causes and Solutions for Your Partner's Discomfort - Family Medicine

Share to:

Experiencing mild fever during the night with temperatures ranging from 37°C to 37.4°C?


My boyfriend has been experiencing fevers ranging from 37°C to 37.4°C during the night for the past few days.
We have visited three different hospitals, but there has been no improvement.
Now, due to this issue, he has also developed a toothache.
We have been going to the hospital almost every day! He has received injections and taken medication, but nothing seems to help, which is very puzzling to me.
What could be the cause? When we went to a large hospital and consulted a family medicine doctor, they couldn't provide any clear answers.
They just suggested more injections and medication without explaining what the illness could be.
As a result, the situation remains the same at night...
it feels like it's getting worse.
How can I alleviate his suffering?

Lian Yu Han, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/05/09

Dr. Gao Qingyun reply Family Medicine


Dear Yu-Han,
The most important aspects of diagnosing and treating the cause of a fever are a thorough medical history inquiry and a detailed physical examination.
I recommend that you visit the Infectious Disease Department for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you safety and health,
Dr.
Ching-Yun Kao
Attending Physician, Family Medicine Department
Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2013/05/09

More Info


It sounds like your boyfriend is going through a challenging time with his health, particularly with the recurring nighttime fever and the recent onset of dental pain. The symptoms you describe—fever ranging from 37°C to 37.4°C (98.6°F to 99.3°F)—are indeed concerning, especially since they have persisted despite multiple visits to different hospitals and treatments.
First, it's important to understand that a low-grade fever can be a sign of various underlying issues, including infections, inflammatory conditions, or even stress-related responses. Given that he has been experiencing dental pain, it’s possible that there is an infection in his mouth, such as an abscessed tooth or gum disease, which could be contributing to both the fever and the pain. Dental infections can sometimes lead to systemic symptoms, including fever, as the body responds to the infection.

Another possibility is that the fever could be related to a viral or bacterial infection elsewhere in the body. Conditions such as sinus infections, respiratory infections, or even gastrointestinal issues can sometimes present with fever and discomfort. If he has been under significant stress, this could also impact his immune system, making him more susceptible to infections.

In terms of managing his discomfort, here are some steps you can take:
1. Encourage Rest: Ensure he gets plenty of rest. Sleep is crucial for recovery, and it can help his body fight off any potential infections.

2. Hydration: Make sure he stays well-hydrated. Fever can lead to dehydration, so encourage him to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, or electrolyte solutions.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage both fever and pain. However, he should consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if he is already on prescribed medications.

4. Dental Care: Since he is experiencing dental pain, it is essential to address this issue directly. If he hasn’t seen a dentist yet, it would be wise to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. A dentist can evaluate for any infections or other dental issues that might be causing his symptoms.

5. Follow-Up with Healthcare Providers: If his symptoms persist or worsen, it may be necessary to return to a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Sometimes, a referral to a specialist, such as an infectious disease doctor or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, may be warranted to get to the root of the problem.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on his symptoms. If he develops additional symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, severe pain, or if the fever rises significantly, seek immediate medical attention.

7. Emotional Support: Lastly, provide emotional support. Dealing with health issues can be stressful and overwhelming, and your support can make a significant difference in his recovery process.

In conclusion, while it can be frustrating to not have clear answers from healthcare providers, it’s essential to continue seeking help and to address each symptom as it arises. Encourage your boyfriend to communicate openly with his healthcare team about his symptoms and concerns, and don’t hesitate to advocate for further testing or referrals if necessary. Your support and care during this time will be invaluable to him.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Fever and Fatigue After Kissing: Possible Causes and Solutions

Dear Deputy Director, I have a question that is somewhat difficult to express. I am thirty years old, and recently, after kissing my girlfriend, I experience fever and general fatigue 1-2 hours later, although my temperature does not exceed 38 degrees Celsius. These symptoms res...


Dr. Zhao Chongliang reply Internal Medicine
The occurrence of symptoms 1-2 hours after the event could certainly indicate an allergy, unlike an infection. However, due to the absence of itching, rashes, hives, chest tightness, or wheezing, this remains uncertain. Another possibility is poisoning, which can be due to biolog...

[Read More] Understanding Fever and Fatigue After Kissing: Possible Causes and Solutions


Understanding Evening Fever: Possible Causes and Concerns

The family member has been bedridden for two months due to a urinary tract infection and was recently hospitalized. They have been experiencing fever every evening, reaching a maximum of about 38.2 degrees Celsius, while being normal during the day. There is also a slight cough w...


Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
In response to PTU: Both of the above reasons are possible. A chest X-ray and urine tests, including culture, must be performed to confirm the diagnosis. It is recommended to seek medical examination and treatment at the hospital as soon as possible.

[Read More] Understanding Evening Fever: Possible Causes and Concerns


Understanding Recurrent Fever: Causes and Concerns in Adults

Hello Doctor: Two years ago, on October 10th, while I was walking with a friend after visiting a night market, I started to feel pain in the back of my head, which then radiated to my back. Generally, I experience pain in the back of my head when I am very tired, but it usually r...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine
Hello Nancy: 1. The fever and headache on October 10, 2005, may indicate a viral infection, possibly even symptoms of a central nervous system infection. After treatment (such as intravenous fluids and medication), the white blood cell count quickly rose from over 1000 to 4000,...

[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Fever: Causes and Concerns in Adults


Understanding Nighttime Fever in Children: Causes and Treatment Options

Hello Doctor, my child has seen a pediatrician three times in the past month due to heavy breathing, wheezing, and vomiting. On the night of January 24th, I noticed that he had a fever exceeding 39 degrees Celsius around 11 PM. When I administered a fever-reducing suppository, he...


Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
Based on your description, the child is likely experiencing a seizure, and when accompanied by a high fever, it is commonly known as a febrile seizure. Some children under the age of 5 or 6 may experience seizures due to elevated body temperature, as their brains are still maturi...

[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Fever in Children: Causes and Treatment Options


Related FAQ

Fever

(Family Medicine)

Insomnia

(Family Medicine)

Tetanus

(Family Medicine)

Headache

(Family Medicine)

Lymphadenitis

(Family Medicine)

Chest Pain

(Family Medicine)

Gastrointestinal Discomfort

(Family Medicine)

Nausea

(Family Medicine)

Muscle Cramps

(Family Medicine)

Armpit Pain

(Family Medicine)