How Can Flu-like Symptoms With Weight Loss And Lethargy Be Treated?

Posted on Tue, 26 Dec 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 26 Dec 2017 Answered on

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 Last reviewed on

Question : 59 yo male has flu-like s/s with fever, profuse perspiration, 10 lb. weight loss over 3-4 days. Has pallor and lethargy. Saw MD today and given prednisone and antibiotic without labs or CXR. What would you have ordered and what might you be ruling out?

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Get done chest x ray to rule out pneumonia.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question,
I can understand your concern.
If this man is my patient then I would definitely rule out pneumonia (lung infection) for his sign and symptoms.
So I would order chest x ray and CBC (complete blood count).
If chest x ray and CBC are normal then no need to worry, viral infection (flu) is more likely.
So drink plenty of fluids orally and finish the medicines given.
Please let me know if he is active smoker.
I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your patient. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Drkaushal85 (10 hours later)

Patient is non smoker and exercises often. He is also well-educated. (Additional info to his profile) Thank you for your reply.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Can you tell me names of medicines he is taking?

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your follow up question,
I can understand your concern.
It is good that patient is nonsmoker.
Can you please send me details of medicines he is taking?
This will be helpful for me.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing him good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad