Recurring fevers and flu-like symptoms

rosedown · October 17, 2006

My lapband surgeon, gastroenterologist, PCP, gynecologist and ear, nose and throat specialist have all said they have NO IDEA what is wrong. Yet many on this site have reported similar symptoms. How can this be? These symptoms happen 4-5 times a year for me - recurring fever, nausea, flu-like symptoms that keep me in bed for 6-8 hours or more. These symptoms seem to occur after a night of reflux, although sometimes I am aware/unaware of the reflux problems. These symptoms are severe enough to keep me in bed or the emergency room - with fever of 102 degrees, problematic white blood count and very low blood pressure. I have been sent to an infectious disease specialist and had chest xrays and blood drawn during these episodes. No diagnosis. My lapband has been in since 11/04. My hiatal hernia was repaired in 3/06. I have been completely unfilled twice. Since these episodes occur infrequently, I guess I would need to stay unfilled for 6 months or more to evaluate. To date I have lost about 30 lbs of the 70 lbs I need to lose. Any suggestions?

vonnie150 · October 18, 2006

I have also had fever of 102 with chills X2 in the last 3 months. Unlike you .I am aware that I have aspirated during the night as I wake up coughing & choking until I can expectorate a large glob of vomit. about 3-4 hrs later I will get a chill then have a high fever. The symptoms last 7-8 hrs .

Carlene · October 18, 2006

See my thread "Help...Many doctors, no answers".

I have had the same symptoms, as have Bandsters from other boards. I am hoping that one of the doctors here will address this.

FullofGRACE · October 23, 2006

Folks with fever and flu like symptoms...if we are hearing this in lots of folks with the Band what's up?

Carlene · October 23, 2006

Folks with fever and flu like symptoms...if we are hearing this in lots of folks with the Band what's up?

Dr. C answered on my other thread regarding this. It is nocturnal aspiration from reflux. The chills/fever are precursors to aspiration pneumonia and/or lung infections. Nasty stuff...

It is extrememly important to avoid reflux. A too-tight fill is usually the culprit. Also, eating too near bedtime will do it. I take meds and do not eat after 8 or 8:30.