What should be done for long-term low-grade fever in AIDS patients?

Generally, the main approaches to managing long-term low-grade fever in AIDS patients include adequate rest, physical cooling, medication, nutritional support, and screening for complications. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Adequate Rest

Long-term low-grade fever continuously consumes physical energy, and since the immune system of AIDS patients is already compromised, sufficient rest is fundamental for bodily recovery. It is important to ensure 7–8 hours of sleep daily and avoid staying up late, which can further burden the body. Create a quiet and comfortable resting environment by minimizing noise and exposure to bright light. Light sitting or moving around is acceptable when physical condition allows, but overexertion should be avoided so the body can conserve enough energy to fight the virus and inflammation.

2. Physical Cooling

When body temperature is below 38.5°C, physical cooling methods are preferred to reduce reliance on medications. Maintain room temperature between 24°C and 26°C, ensuring good air circulation without direct exposure to cold drafts. Wipe areas rich in blood vessels—such as the forehead, neck, and armpits—with lukewarm water (32°C–34°C), or apply ice packs wrapped in a towel to these regions for 15–20 minutes per session. Alternatively, fever-reducing patches that dissipate heat through evaporation can also be used.

3. Medication

Treatment should address both fever reduction and underlying causes. When body temperature exceeds 38.5°C or discomfort is significant, antipyretics such as acetaminophen tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or enteric-coated aspirin tablets may be taken under medical guidance. At the same time, standardized antiviral therapy is essential to suppress viral replication and alleviate low-grade fever at its source. Medications like zidovudine tablets, lamivudine tablets, and efavirenz tablets should be taken regularly under a doctor’s supervision.

4. Nutritional Support

Adequate nutrition is crucial for boosting immunity. Ensure sufficient intake of high-quality proteins such as lean meat, fish, eggs, and legumes. Supplement with vitamins A, C, and B-complex by consuming fresh fruits and vegetables like oranges, spinach, and carrots. Vitamin C or B-complex supplements may be taken when necessary. Sufficient carbohydrates should also be consumed to provide energy and prevent malnutrition from worsening the condition.

5. Screening for Complications

Due to their weakened immune systems, AIDS patients often experience persistent low-grade fever as an early sign of complications such as bacterial infections, fungal infections, or hyperthyroidism. Regular tests—including complete blood count and pathogen detection—are recommended. Body temperature should be monitored and recorded every two hours to assist diagnosis. Once a complication is identified, targeted treatment must be initiated promptly to prevent silent progression of the disease.

In addition, patients must strictly follow medical instructions regarding medication and must not discontinue or adjust dosages on their own, especially with antiretroviral drugs, which must be taken at consistent times and doses to prevent drug resistance. Regular monitoring of viral load and immune function is essential, and any changes in body temperature or symptoms should be reported promptly. Maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding anxiety is beneficial for recovery. Immediate medical attention is required if fever worsens or symptoms such as difficulty breathing occur.