Enduring Six Days of Illness with Elevated CRP Levels
Hello, I am a 21-year-old male who typically enjoys good health, but I have been dealing with a severe fever that began last Friday and has persisted for six days now. Here are my current symptoms: - My fever rises to between 39°C to 39.5°C and rarely drops below 38°C, even with the administration of Advil and Panadol. - I am suffering from a painful sore throat, characterized by swollen tonsils and noticeable mouth ulcers. - I also have sores in my mouth along with swollen gums. - I do not exhibit any cough or nasal issues. - After meals, I experience stomach pain; this discomfort is alleviated by drinking water. - Muscle aches were present initially but have mostly diminished. - Earlier in the illness, I experienced some palpitations and premature ventricular contractions. On Day 6 (Sunday), my bloodwork revealed the following results: - CRP level of 168 - White blood cell count of 5.2 - A slight decrease in platelet count I have been hospitalized for treatment, including intravenous fluids and management of my fever. However, the medical team has yet to determine the underlying cause of my symptoms. I’m feeling anxious because I’ve had this fever for six consecutive days, and my condition worsens after eating. Previously, I had a viral illness in mid-June with a cough that lasted a few days, but this current episode feels significantly more severe. Could this still be viral in nature? Is it possible that there's a more serious condition at play? How long is it acceptable to experience elevated CRP and fever without a confirmed diagnosis?
Answers (1)
7/17/2025, 8:50:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your situation. It sounds very challenging, and I understand your concerns about the prolonged fever and discomfort you're experiencing.
Main Points:
You’ve been experiencing a high fever for six days and have notable symptoms such as a sore throat, mouth ulcers, and stomach pain after eating, with a significantly elevated CRP level. While it's crucial to investigate the underlying cause of these symptoms, there are some actionable next steps to consider as you continue managing your health.
Explanation:
The current combination of your symptoms could suggest several possible causes, including a viral infection, bacterial infection, or other inflammatory conditions. Elevated CRP (C-reactive protein) levels indicate that there is inflammation or infection in your body, but it doesn’t specify the cause. It’s good that you are under hospital care, as they can monitor your symptoms closely and conduct additional tests to track down the source of your illness.
Your past viral infection may not be directly related to this episode; however, it’s possible for subsequent infections or complications to arise. Your symptoms, particularly the mouth ulcers and elevated CRP, warrant continued investigation.
Next Steps:
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Hydration: Continue taking intravenous fluids if possible, as staying hydrated is essential. Drinking water after meals seems to ease your stomach pain, which is good. Keep doing that.
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Symptom Tracking: Maintain a detailed log of your symptoms, including when your fever spikes, any changes in throat pain or mouth sores, and your stomach discomfort. This information could help healthcare professionals narrow down the diagnosis.
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Review Medication: Ensure that you are consistent with any fever-reducing medications (like Advil or Panadol) while discussing with your medical team any possible interactions or limits on their use.
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Relaxation Techniques: Given your anxiety about the symptoms, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness can help manage stress while you’re in recovery.
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Communicate with Your Care Team: Keep reaching out to your healthcare providers with any new symptoms or worsening conditions. Don’t hesitate to express your concerns or ask for clarity regarding the diagnostic process and next steps.
Follow-Up:
Keep track of your symptoms and their progression. If you notice significant changes or new symptoms, that is essential information to share with your healthcare team. Prolonged fever can be concerning, but they are better positioned to evaluate your situation thoroughly and make informed decisions.
Take care, and I hope you find relief soon. If you have further questions or need more details, feel free to ask!
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