Introduction
A fever that comes and goes—also known as an intermittent or recurring fever—is a common health complaint that affects people of all ages. Unlike a constant high fever, this type of fever appears for a period of time, subsides (sometimes completely), and then returns again hours or days later. While it may seem less serious than a persistent fever, a fluctuating fever can sometimes signal an underlying medical condition that should not be ignored.
In this in-depth guide, you will learn what a fever that comes and goes means, its common causes, symptoms to watch out for, diagnosis, treatment options, and when to see a doctor.
What Is a Fever That Comes and Goes?
A fever that comes and goes is a pattern of raised body temperature that is not constant. The temperature may rise above normal (37.5°C or 99.5°F), return to normal, and then rise again later. This cycle may repeat over several days or weeks.
Doctors often refer to this as:
- Intermittent fever
- Relapsing fever
- Recurrent fever
The pattern of the fever can provide important clues about its cause.
Normal Body Temperature vs Fever
Normal body temperature usually ranges between 36.1°C and 37.2°C (97°F–99°F). A fever is generally defined as:
Mild fever: 37.5–38.0°C (99.5–100.4°F)
Moderate fever: 38.1–39.0°C (100.6–102.2°F)
High fever: Above 39.0°C (102.2°F)
When the temperature repeatedly rises above normal and then drops again, it is considered a fever that comes and goes.
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Common Causes of Fever That Comes and Goes
There are many possible reasons why someone may experience a fluctuating fever. Some causes are mild and self-limiting, while others may require medical attention.
1. Infections (Most Common Cause)
Viral Infections
Many viral illnesses cause fevers that fluctuate, especially:
- Common cold
- Influenza (flu)
- COVID-19
- Viral gastroenteritis
- Viral sore throat
Viral fevers often come and go as the immune system fights the infection. They usually resolve within 3–7 days.
Bacterial Infections
Some bacterial infections cause intermittent fever patterns, such as:
- Typhoid fever
- Tuberculosis
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Sinus infections
- Pneumonia
These fevers may last longer and often require antibiotic treatment.
Parasitic Infections
In regions like Africa and Asia, malaria is a major cause of fever that comes and goes. Malaria typically causes cyclical fever, often every 48–72 hours, accompanied by chills and sweating.
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2. Inflammatory and Autoimmune Conditions
Certain non-infectious conditions can trigger recurring fevers:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus (SLE)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
- Vasculitis
In these conditions, fever is caused by chronic inflammation, not germs.
3. Stress and Physical Exhaustion
Severe stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, or extreme physical exertion can sometimes cause low-grade fevers that come and go. This is more common in:
- Students under academic pressure
- People with anxiety disorders
- Individuals experiencing burnout
These fevers are usually mild and resolve with rest.
4. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations can slightly raise body temperature, especially:
- During ovulation in women
- Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism)
- Puberty-related hormonal changes
Such fevers are often low-grade and intermittent.
5. Drug-Induced Fever
Some medications can cause fevers that come and go as a side effect, including:
- Certain antibiotics
- Anti-seizure medications
- Vaccines (temporary)
This is known as drug fever and usually resolves after stopping the medication under medical advice.
6. Cancers (Rare but Important Cause)
In rare cases, persistent or recurrent fever may be associated with cancers such as:
- Lymphoma
- Leukemia
These fevers are often accompanied by unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue.
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Symptoms That May Come With Intermittent Fever
A fever that comes and goes may occur alone or with other symptoms, including:
- Chills and sweating
- Headache
- Body aches
- Weakness or fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Cough or sore throat
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea or vomiting
The combination of symptoms often helps doctors identify the cause.
How Long Is Too Long?
Occasional fever for a few days is usually not dangerous. However, medical attention is needed if:
- Fever lasts more than 7–10 days
- Fever keeps returning for weeks
- Fever exceeds 39°C (102°F)
- Fever occurs in infants or young children
- Fever is associated with severe symptoms
When to See a Doctor Immediately
Seek urgent medical care if a fever that comes and goes is accompanied by:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Confusion or seizures
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe headache with stiff neck
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- Rash that spreads quickly
How Doctors Diagnose the Cause
To determine the cause of recurrent fever, a doctor may:
- Take a detailed medical history
- Perform a physical examination
- Request blood tests (CBC, ESR, CRP)
- Test for malaria, typhoid, or infections
- Order urine or stool tests
- Recommend imaging (X-ray, ultrasound)
- Conduct specialized tests if needed
Diagnosis depends on fever pattern, duration, and associated symptoms.
Treatment for Fever That Comes and Goes
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause.
General Home Care
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Get adequate rest
- Use light clothing
- Monitor temperature regularly
Medications
- Paracetamol or acetaminophen for symptom relief
- Antibiotics (only if prescribed for bacterial infections)
- Antimalarial drugs for malaria
- Anti-inflammatory drugs for autoimmune conditions
Never self-medicate with antibiotics.
Can Fever That Comes and Goes Be Prevented?
While not all fevers can be prevented, you can reduce risk by:
- Practicing good hygiene
- Drinking clean water
- Using mosquito nets in malaria-prone areas like our country Nigeria
- Getting recommended vaccinations
- Managing stress effectively
- Seeking early medical care when sick
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a fever that comes and goes serious?
Not always. Many cases are mild, but persistent or recurring fever should be evaluated.
Can stress cause fever?
Yes, stress and anxiety can cause low-grade intermittent fever in some people.
Does malaria fever come and go?
Yes. Malaria commonly causes cyclical fever with chills and sweating.
Should I worry about cancer?
Cancer-related fever is rare and usually comes with other warning signs like weight loss and night sweats.
Conclusion
A fever that comes and goes should never be ignored, especially if it lasts longer than a week or keeps returning. While many causes are harmless and self-limiting, others may require prompt medical treatment. Paying attention to associated symptoms, tracking temperature patterns, and seeking medical advice early can make a big difference in outcomes.
If you or a loved one experiences recurrent fever, do not rely on guesswork—proper diagnosis is the key to effective treatment.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
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