Q: I have been running low grade fever for the last 7 weeks. Originally diagnosed as a throat infection and treated with antibiotics; but when the fever continued, a urine test and culture was done which showed bacteria. This was also treated with antibiotics. However, the fever is still continuing in the range of 99F (coupled with a feeling of being drained out). All my blood counts and urine reports are normal (I have thalassaemia minor). Please advise as to what could be the reason for the persistent fever.

A:Persistently raised body temperature can be a worrying and difficult problem and needs a proper investigation, preferably in a hospital. It would seem that either you have not received long enough treatment or that it is for the wrong germ. You will need to have blood and urine cultures and many other investigations to identify the organism causing the temperature, so that proper treatment can be given. Please contact a hospital consultant with your problem.