Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Sore Throat And Ear Pain In An Elderly Person
Posted on
Mon, 3 Apr 2017
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Mon, 3 Apr 2017
Answered on
Tue, 25 Apr 2017
Last reviewed on
Question : My husband is a 72 year old while male currently suffering from high fevers and severe chills. He claims to have no sore throat or ear pain. We are treating him with Tylenol and liquids but he is not showing any improvement. These symptoms are now five days old.
Brief Answer:
he should see his primary care physician
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
unfortunately fever is too broad a symptom to diagnose anything. More information is required for the formation of a decent differential diagnosis list. 5 days with high fever should not be left undiagnosed particularly if there are no clues for the diagnosis (for example no respiratory tract symptoms).
High fever (usually with rigor) is common in urinary tract infections but other potential causes may apply. Common viral infections like influenza or others may also cause the same symptom.
So in conclusion, assessment by his primary care physician is the first step he should take. High fever without any symptoms should be diagnosed in a 72 years old patient. Until then he can use paracetamol (acetaminophen) for the fever and make sure he's taking enough fluid to avoid dehydration.
Kind Regards!
he should see his primary care physician
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
unfortunately fever is too broad a symptom to diagnose anything. More information is required for the formation of a decent differential diagnosis list. 5 days with high fever should not be left undiagnosed particularly if there are no clues for the diagnosis (for example no respiratory tract symptoms).
High fever (usually with rigor) is common in urinary tract infections but other potential causes may apply. Common viral infections like influenza or others may also cause the same symptom.
So in conclusion, assessment by his primary care physician is the first step he should take. High fever without any symptoms should be diagnosed in a 72 years old patient. Until then he can use paracetamol (acetaminophen) for the fever and make sure he's taking enough fluid to avoid dehydration.
Kind Regards!
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
