Can Chronic Diarrhea Cause Fever?

Chronic diarrhea, defined as loose or watery stools lasting more than four weeks, can have a variety of underlying causes. In some cases, it may be accompanied by fever, depending on the root condition responsible for the symptoms.

One of the primary causes of chronic diarrhea linked with fever is chronic infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. These infections may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. For example, intestinal tuberculosis, cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and HIV infection are all known to cause persistent diarrhea that may also trigger fever. When an infection is involved, healthcare providers typically perform pathogen testing to identify the specific agent and guide treatment accordingly.

Beyond infections, certain inflammatory bowel conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease—both forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—can also lead to long-term diarrhea and fever. These conditions often result in non-watery stools that contain mucus, blood, or even pus. The inflammation associated with IBD can sometimes extend beyond the digestive system, contributing to systemic symptoms like fever.

In more severe cases, chronic diarrhea and low-grade fever could signal the presence of certain cancers, including lymphomas or other hematologic malignancies. Patients might experience a persistent temperature between 37°C and below 38°C without obvious signs like abdominal masses or bleeding. This subtle presentation makes it crucial to seek medical attention if chronic diarrhea and fever occur together.

Lastly, non-infectious and non-inflammatory causes of chronic diarrhea, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or malabsorption syndromes, typically do not present with fever. Therefore, the presence of fever should prompt further investigation to rule out serious underlying conditions.

If you're experiencing ongoing diarrhea along with any degree of fever, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause and begin appropriate management.