Anxiety Disorders and Persistent Low-Grade Fever: What You Need to Know

Anxiety disorders can manifest in a variety of physical and psychological symptoms. One question that often arises is whether anxiety can cause a persistent low-grade fever. To better understand this, it's important to distinguish between an actual increase in body temperature and the sensation of feeling hot or feverish without a measurable rise in temperature.

Feeling Feverish Without a Real Fever

Many individuals with anxiety disorders report experiencing sensations of heat, such as warm skin, hot palms or soles of the feet, or a general feeling of being feverish. However, when their temperature is taken, it falls within the normal range. This phenomenon is often linked to autonomic nervous system dysfunction caused by anxiety. These symptoms are quite common in clinical practice and typically improve with appropriate anxiety treatment, including therapy and/or medication.

When the Fever Is Real

If a person is experiencing a genuine, long-term low-grade fever, it's crucial not to assume that it's solely due to anxiety-related autonomic dysfunction. A persistent low fever can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, and further investigation is necessary to identify the cause.

Potential Medical Causes of Chronic Low-Grade Fever

Among the most common causes of long-term low-grade fever are immune system disorders and hematologic (blood-related) conditions. These should be carefully evaluated by a healthcare professional through blood tests and other diagnostic tools. Additionally, infections such as tuberculosis should also be ruled out, as they often present with similar symptoms, including unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue.

Conclusion

While anxiety may lead to physical sensations that mimic fever, it's important to determine whether the fever is real or psychosomatic. If a low-grade fever persists, medical evaluation is essential to rule out serious conditions. Managing anxiety can help alleviate many related physical symptoms, but a comprehensive approach to health is always recommended.