What to do if you have high fever after surgery for left colon cancer

What to do if you have a high fever after surgery for left colon cancer

Fever After Left Colon Cancer Surgery: What to Do

A fever is a common side effect after surgery, including surgery for left colon cancer. It is important to know what to do if you develop a fever after surgery so that you can get the appropriate treatment.

What is a fever?

A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. Normal body temperature is around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). A fever is considered to be anything over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).

What causes a fever after surgery?

There are many possible causes of a fever after surgery, including:

Infection: This is the most common cause of a fever after surgery. An infection can occur in the surgical wound, or it can be in another part of the body.

Blood clot: A blood clot can form in the legs or lungs after surgery. This can cause a fever and other symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and shortness of breath.

Pneumonia: Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Pneumonia is a common complication of surgery, and it can cause a fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Urinary tract infection: A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of the bladder, urethra, or kidneys. UTIs are common after surgery, and they can cause a fever, pain, and burning with urination.

Other causes: There are other possible causes of a fever after surgery, such as a reaction to anesthesia, a medication, or a transfusion.

What should you do if you have a fever after surgery?

If you develop a fever after surgery, it is important to see your doctor right away. Your doctor will need to determine the cause of your fever and start the appropriate treatment.

In the meantime, there are some things you can do at home to help reduce your fever:

Drink plenty of fluids: Fluids help to cool the body and prevent dehydration.

Take over-the-counter fever reducers: Over-the-counter fever reducers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to reduce your fever.

Rest: Resting helps your body to heal and fight infection.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can both dehydrate you and make your fever worse.

When to seek medical attention

It is important to seek medical attention if your fever is:

Higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius)

Persistent: A fever that lasts for more than 24 hours

Accompanied by other symptoms, such as chills, shaking, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Not responding to over-the-counter fever reducers

Treatment for fever after surgery

The treatment for a fever after surgery will depend on the cause of the fever. If you have an infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. If you have a blood clot, your doctor will prescribe blood thinners. If you have pneumonia, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics and other medications to help you breathe.

In some cases, you may need to be hospitalized for treatment. This is usually necessary if you have a severe infection or if your fever is not responding to treatment.

Prevention of fever after surgery

There are some things you can do to help prevent a fever after surgery, such as:

Get plenty of rest before surgery.

Eat a healthy diet.

Avoid smoking and alcohol.

Follow your doctor's instructions for taking antibiotics before and after surgery.

Keep your surgical wound clean and dry.

Report any signs of infection to your doctor right away.

Outlook

Most people who develop a fever after surgery recover completely. However, it is important to see your doctor right away if you have a fever so that you can get the appropriate treatment.

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