What are the causes of persistent low-grade fever?

Generally, low-grade fever refers to a mild fever. Persistent low-grade fever may be caused by dysfunction of the thermoregulatory center, stress response after excessive exercise, tuberculosis, rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, and other conditions. If experiencing discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Dysfunction of the Thermoregulatory Center

Dysfunction of the thermoregulatory center is commonly associated with long-term sleep deprivation, excessive fatigue, high mental stress, and other factors. The thermoregulatory center is located in the hypothalamus and is responsible for regulating body temperature. When its function becomes impaired, the temperature set point may shift upward, resulting in persistent low-grade fever. It is recommended to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, including regular sleep patterns, moderate exercise, and relaxation techniques.

2. Stress Response After Excessive Exercise

The stress response following excessive exercise is usually caused by overly intense workouts, prolonged exercise duration, or excessively high environmental temperatures. After excessive exercise, the body may develop a stress response, increasing metabolic activity and generating excessive heat. If the body cannot dissipate heat effectively, it may lead to sustained low-grade fever. It is advisable to plan exercise intensity and duration appropriately and avoid engaging in strenuous activities in hot or humid environments.

3. Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is generally caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Patients with tuberculosis may experience immune responses due to the infection, leading to persistent low-grade fever. Symptoms may also include coughing, sputum production, hemoptysis, chest pain, and others. Treatment may involve medications such as isoniazid tablets, rifampin capsules, and pyrazinamide tablets, under a doctor's guidance.

4. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by abnormal immune system activity. The presence of inflammatory responses in the body can trigger immune reactions, potentially leading to persistent low-grade fever. Additional symptoms may include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Treatment may involve pulse therapy with medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, methotrexate tablets, and prednisone tablets, as directed by a physician.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is caused by excessive secretion of thyroid hormones, which increases the body's metabolic rate, generates excessive heat, and causes persistent low-grade fever. Other symptoms may include palpitations, sweating, increased appetite, and weight loss. Treatment options may include medications such as methimazole tablets, propranolol tablets, metoprolol tablets, and others, as prescribed by a doctor.

In daily life, it is important to maintain regular sleep patterns, engage in moderate physical activity, and stay relaxed, avoiding long-term sleep deprivation, excessive fatigue, and high levels of psychological stress.