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Fever & Infectious Diseases

Most fevers settle on their own within a few days. The ones that matter are those lasting beyond a week, those with warning signs, and those in a city where dengue, typhoid and malaria are all realistic possibilities. Testing is targeted rather than scattergun.

  • Same-day blood tests and reporting
  • Dengue and typhoid testing on site
  • Warning signs explained clearly
  • Admission available if needed

Stay

Outpatient, or admission if unwell

Duration

Assessment usually within one visit

Anaesthesia

Not applicable

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About Fever & Infectious Diseases

The pattern of a fever, how long it has lasted and what comes with it narrow the possibilities considerably before any test is done. In Chennai the seasonal picture matters too. Tests are chosen against that rather than ordered as a panel, and antibiotics are used where there is a reason, since most fevers are viral and antibiotics do nothing for them.

  • Most fevers are viral and settle without antibiotics
  • The pattern and duration narrow the diagnosis before testing
  • Dengue platelet counts are followed over days, not once
  • Warning signs matter more than the temperature reading
Fever & Infectious Diseases

Before you read on

Everything here is general information about fever & infectious diseases. Whether it suits you, and how it would be done in your case, is a decision for your doctor after examining you.

Your consultant's instructions always take precedence over anything written on this page.

When is it recommended?

Situations in which a doctor may suggest fever & infectious diseases.

  • Fever lasting more than three to five days
  • Fever with rash, severe headache or joint pains
  • Fever with breathlessness or chest pain
  • Fever with abdominal pain or vomiting
  • Recurrent fevers over weeks
  • Fever after travel
  • Fever in someone with diabetes or reduced immunity

Procedure details

The usual sequence, from first consultation through to follow-up.

01

History and examination

The pattern of fever, associated symptoms, travel and contacts, followed by a full examination looking for a source.

02

Targeted testing

Blood counts, and specific tests for dengue, typhoid or malaria where the picture fits, rather than a blanket panel.

03

Treatment

Fluids and paracetamol for most. Antibiotics where there is a bacterial cause, and admission where fluids or monitoring are needed.

04

Follow-up

In dengue, platelet counts are followed over several days, and you are told exactly which signs mean returning immediately.

How to prepare

What to sort out before you come in.

  • Note the temperature pattern, when it rises and how high
  • Note any rash, joint pain, headache behind the eyes or abdominal pain
  • Bring a list of medicines already taken, including antibiotics
  • Mention recent travel, even within India
  • Bring any previous blood test reports from this illness
Preparing for Fever & Infectious Diseases

Recovery

What to expect afterwards, and roughly when.

  • Most viral fevers settle within five to seven days
  • Fluids matter more than any medicine in dengue and most viral fevers
  • Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin if dengue is suspected, as they increase bleeding risk
  • Weakness for a week or two after a fever is normal
  • Return immediately for bleeding, severe abdominal pain, drowsiness or reduced urine

Why choose Humayun for fever

Fever is common and mostly harmless, so the value is in identifying the few that are not.

  • Same-day blood tests and reporting, so treatment starts the same day
  • Testing chosen against the clinical picture rather than ordered as a blanket panel
  • Antibiotics used where there is a reason, since most fevers are viral
  • Clear written warning signs, so you know exactly when to come back
Fever & Infectious Diseases at Dr. Humayun Speciality Hospital

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Before you decide

Common questions about fever & infectious diseases.

How long should a fever last before I see a doctor?

Most viral fevers settle within three to five days. Come sooner for a rash that does not fade, severe headache, breathlessness, drowsiness, or if you have diabetes or reduced immunity.

Do I need antibiotics for fever?

Usually not. Most fevers are viral and antibiotics have no effect on them. They are given where a bacterial cause is identified or strongly suspected.

What are the warning signs in dengue?

Bleeding from gums or nose, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, drowsiness, or reduced urine. Those need immediate attention regardless of the platelet count.

Should I take ibuprofen for fever?

Not where dengue is a possibility, as it increases bleeding risk. Paracetamol is the safer choice in the fever season.

Still have questions?

If your question is not answered here, our team is happy to talk it through with you.

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