What Causes Fever With Swelling In The Gums?

Posted on Thu, 27 Apr 2017

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

Thu, 27 Apr 2017 Answered on

Fri, 19 May 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I went to Urgent Care yesterday morning. I had a 104 fever yesterday. They took a strep test that came out negative but the doctor clearly could see I have strep. I also had a Flu test that came out negative. My fever is fluctuating between 100 and 101.2. I have had strep before so the difference this time is my mouth. My gums are swollen, the roof of my mouth is swollen, it hurts to brush my teeth. I am on 500 mg of amoxicillin twice a day.

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Are you on any pain medications?

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks so much for this query.

This probably sounds more of a viral infection. In addition to this amoxicillin which I probably think it was not too mandatory, i will recommend that you get good pain medication. Tylenol, 1000mg every 6hours will take care of the pain and the fever. Your body immune system would eventually get this infection under control.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me if need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (18 hours later)

My fever has returned to normal. But can you suggest why my mouth symptoms exist? Swollen gums, roof of my mouth swollen, hurts to swallow, gums white in some spots?

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
This is still a severe viral infection!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

These findings are consistent with a severe viral infection. I do not think there is something hidden underneath. Unless otherwise, pain and fever management alone is sufficient.

I wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar