Recurrent fevers: Does your fever disappear, only to pop back up weeks or months later? You feel fine for a bit, and then it returns. Recurrent fevers can be confusing and worrying, but they’re also your body’s way of saying something needs attention. This guide breaks down what recurrent fevers are, common causes, and when to see a doctor.
What is the recurrent fever?
A fever is a body temperature above normal (typically over 100°F / 38°C). A recurrent fever means it keeps coming back with fever-free gaps in between. You might feel worn out for a day or two, get better, and then, weeks later, it returns. This cycle can last for weeks or months.
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Possible causes of recurrent fevers
Infections that don’t fully clear:
When an infection isn’t fully cleared, it can recur. Common examples include urinary tract infections, sinus infections or tuberculosis. In these cases, you might also feel fatigue or chills.
Hidden infections in the body:
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to an infection inside the body. It can be small and easy to miss, but still cause on-and-off fevers. Common sites for abscess formation include the abdomen and teeth or gums. Even though you might not experience obvious pain, a persistent or recurrent fever can serve as a warning sign that something hidden requires attention.
Autoimmune conditions:
Sometimes the immune system gets confused and attacks the body’s own tissues. That triggers inflammation, often showing up as fever and joint pain. Conditions like lupus or adult-onset Still’s disease can cause recurrent fevers, often with skin rashes or muscle aches. Fevers in these flares may last a few days.
Periodic fever syndrome:
These are uncommon conditions, mostly in children and some young adults, where fevers return in a regular pattern. They aren’t infections; they stem from inherited issues in the immune system.
When should you see a doctor?
See a doctor if your fever keeps coming back for more than two weeks, if you feel unusually weak, or if you develop other symptoms like joint pain. If fever is disrupting sleep or daily life, it’s time to get checked. Your doctor may order blood and urine tests and possibly a chest X-ray.
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Recurrent fevers are scary, but you’re not alone. Whether it’s an infection, an autoimmune issue, or something else, finding the cause is the first step to feeling better.
