Question: Hello, doctor! I have pleural tuberculosis, which has led to pleural effusion. I am taking tuberculosis medication but still experience prolonged high fever, especially at night. Could you please advise on how to treat this fever while taking pleural tuberculosis medication?
Nguyen Hoang Vu, Ho Chi Minh City
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Answer:
Hello,
A prolonged high fever at night while taking medication for pleural tuberculosis could be due to two possible causes:
• Side effects of tuberculosis medication: Fatigue, loss of appetite, rashes, allergies, fever, hepatitis, kidney failure, and joint pain.
• Initial treatment phase: Because treatment has just started, the tuberculosis bacteria may still be present, causing a fever. In some cases, the fever can persist for up to two months after starting treatment.
Since treatment options are limited and tuberculosis bacteria are easily resistant to medication, you should not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor. Of course, the fever can be very uncomfortable. You should discuss with your treating doctor about adding antipyretic medication.
Thank you for trusting and sending your question to the Vinmec Health System. Best regards!
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Answered by Tran Thi Diem Trang, MD - Respiratory Medicine Specialist - Outpatient & Internal Medicine Department - Vinmec International General Hospital Central Park.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
