Fever (abnormally risen body temperature) is basically the body’s immune response against any external or internal injuries/infections or insult.
Fever in cancer patients is particularly an important sign of an impending infection. More importantly, in those patients receiving chemotherapy, any spike of fever need not be ignored and must be brought in attention to the treating Oncologist. Further detailed investigations for the source of infection may be needed as in most cases, there are no other symptoms.
When it becomes an emergency?
- Fever with any weakness and pain may or may not be so concerning to an otherwise healthy person, but it’s a matter of concern in case of cancer patients. Do Ask A Doctor or visit your nearest emergency for a prompt assessment.
- Cough and fever may or may not be so concerning in any healthy person, but for a cancer patient, developing cough and fever can be quite severe (underlying severe lung infection/pneumonia should be ruled out as a priority). Always Ask An Oncologist for further assessment.
- Fever during chemotherapy is another alarming sign or maybe the only sign of an impending infection. It’s important to know that in most of the cancer patient’s immunity is already compromised and they’re already having low blood cells (white blood cells most importantly). So, apart from the spike of fever, there may not be any other signs of infection. Therefore, it must be informed to the treating Oncologist for an immediate check-up as well as further investigations.
- If you’re having specially implanted devices in your body (e.g., Chemo port, indwelling catheters, etc.) any fresh onset fever needs to be informed to the treating Oncologist for further investigations.
- Any sudden onset abdominal pain/loose motion with fever need to be informed to the Oncologist art the earliest for a thorough set of investigations. Most importantly, do not panic, just refer to your nearest ER as well as AskADoctor for further assistance.
At HealthCareMagic, we’ve dedicated 24x7 service of Oncologists. Medical concerns of any form are almost always a time dependant matter, so in case of any further queries feel free to contact Ask A Doctor for any kind of Medical assistance
