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Fever and Lupus
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Fever is often a
part of lupus. For some people with lupus, an intermittent (coming and
going) or continuous low-grade fever may be normal. Other people,
especially those on large doses of aspirin, nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or corticosteroids, may not have fever
at all because these drugs may mask a fever.
If you have
lupus, you may be more vulnerable to certain infections than are other
people without lupus. In addition, you may be more prone to infection if
you are taking any immunosuppressive drugs for your lupus. Be alert to a
temperature that is new or higher than normal for you, because it could
be a sign of a developing infection or a lupus flare.
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Caring
For Yourself
- Take your temperature at least once a day (or more often
if needed) to determine what a “normal” temperature is
for you.
- Take your temperature and watch for a fever any time you
feel chills or do not feel well.
- Call your doctor immediately if you have a new or
higher-than-normal temperature.
- Even if you don’t have a fever, don’t hesitate to call
your doctor if you do not feel well in any way, particularly
if you are taking aspirin, NSAIDs, or a corticosteroid.
Signs of infection other than a fever include unusual pain,
cramping or swelling, a headache with neck stiffness, cold
or flu symptoms, trouble breathing, nausea, vomiting,
diarrhea, or changes in urine or stool.
- Talk to your doctor about immunization against
pneumococcal pneumonia and the flu.
- Practice good personal hygiene.
- Avoid large crowds and people who are sick.
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ADDITIONAL
NOTES
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| From LUPUS: A Patient Care Guide
for Nurses and Other Health Professionals, National Institute of
Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases/National Institutes of
Health |
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National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, Maryland 20892-2350
January 26, 1999
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