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High Fever & Joint Pain

High fever and joint pain are two symptoms that can indicate a variety of diseases and medical conditions. A high fever is always considered serious and often indicates a new health problem or worsening of a current one. Joint pain is common and on its own doesn't necessarily cause alarm; however, a fever that occurs with joint pain requires medical attention.

  1. Adult Onset Still's Disease

    • Adult Onset Still's disease is a rare type of arthritic inflammation that is accompanied by rash, high fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, nausea and lack of appetite. The most common treatment is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to combat the often severe inflammation. Other drug treatments include glucocorticoids (for the high fever and inflammation) and methotrexate (to control the disease).

    Scarlet Fever

    • Scarlet fever is most often caused by strep throat, a bacterial infection that causes sore throat and in some cases difficulty swallowing. Scarlet fever causes a characteristic rash that often covers the majority of a person's body in addition to high fever and joint pain. Antibiotic medications are used to treat this infection.

    Rubella

    • Rubella is a contagious viral infection that can cause high fever and joint pain, as well as a rash and swollen lymph nodes. Rubella is most often treated with plenty of fluids and bed rest. Some patients will be prescribed antiviral medication and pain medication if the joint pain becomes particularly bothersome.

    Bacterial Pneumonia

    • Bacterial pneumonia is a bacterial infection that affects the lungs and small tubes in the lungs called the bronchioles. In addition to high fever and joint pain, bacterial pneumonia may also cause chills, shaking and severe chest pain. Antibiotic medications are the most common treatment method for this type of pneumonia. Patients should also get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids. Over-the-counter medications to alleviate joint pain and fever may also be recommended.

    Epiglottitis

    • Epiglottitis is a condition in which the epiglottis is inflamed, causing high fever, joint pain, sore throat and changes in breathing. The epiglottis is a piece of cartilage located at the base of the tongue. Antibiotic medications are the most common treatment method. In severe cases, patients may require hospitalization where they will receive antibiotics intravenously and possibly a breathing tube if the their ability to breathe is greatly impacted.

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