[72M] Experiencing recurring fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite

Patient Description

A 72-year-old male reports recurring fevers of 100.3°F approximately every six weeks, accompanied by fatigue and a constant loss of appetite. The patient has been experiencing these symptoms intermittently for the past two months, and despite the loss of appetite, there has been no significant weight loss. The patient forces himself to eat as food does not taste good. Night sweats have been noted, but there are no swollen glands, shortness of breath, cough, or significant weight loss. The patient was diagnosed with prostate cancer (Gleason score 6) in January; however, no treatment is being administered for it. The patient's current medication includes Metoprolol Succinate ER 25 mg for high blood pressure. No allergies or adverse reactions to medications have been reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, there are a few possible explanations for your symptoms:

Infection: Recurring fever and night sweats can be signs of an ongoing infection. The fact that you feel better with Tylenol and Zpak (an antibiotic) supports this possibility. However, it's unusual for an infection to last this long without other symptoms like cough or pain.
Cancer: Given your recent diagnosis of prostate cancer, it's possible that your symptoms are related to this condition. Cancer can cause systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and night sweats. However, a Gleason score of 6 typically indicates a less aggressive form of prostate cancer, which might not cause such symptoms.
Medication side effects: Some medications can cause loss of appetite and taste changes. However, the medications you mentioned (Metoprolol and Succinate ER) are not typically associated with these side effects.
Other conditions: There are many other conditions that can cause these symptoms, including hormonal disorders, autoimmune diseases, and other types of cancer.

What you can do

Given the recurring nature of your fever and your recent cancer diagnosis, it's important to seek medical attention. Here are some steps you can take:

Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor as soon as possible. They can perform a physical examination and order tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
Keep a symptom diary. Note down when your symptoms occur, how long they last, and any potential triggers. This can help your doctor in their assessment.
Continue to take your prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Severe fatigue or weakness
High fever (over 103°F)
Difficulty breathing
Severe or worsening pain
Unexplained weight loss

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I am an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

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