Parkinson symptoms with fever

Overview

Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. A fever is a body temperature higher than normal, often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. When a person with Parkinson’s has a fever, it is important to take it seriously. The fever may be caused by a small infection, but it can also make Parkinson’s symptoms like stiffness, tremor, or confusion much worse for a while.

Fevers are not a normal part of Parkinson’s, but they are quite common in people with the condition, mainly because Parkinson’s can make you more prone to infections like chest and bladder infections.

Anyone with Parkinson’s can develop a fever, but older adults, people with advanced Parkinson’s, and those with memory problems or mobility difficulties are at higher risk of complications.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A body temperature above 38°C (100.4°F)
• Chills or sweating
• Worsening of usual Parkinson’s symptoms, such as tremor or stiffness
• Feeling very tired or weak
• Reduced appetite or nausea
• Confusion or feeling unusually sleepy

Causes

Main causes

• Infections, especially of the chest (pneumonia or bronchitis) or bladder (urinary tract infection)
• Skin infections or infected pressure sores
• Dehydration or overheating
• Rarely, a sudden change in Parkinson’s medication can lead to a condition with high fever and severe stiffness (this is a medical emergency)

Risk factors

• Age over 65 years
• Advanced Parkinson’s with limited mobility
• Dementia or memory problems
• Long-term lung disease, diabetes, or kidney problems
• Having a catheter or feeding tube

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Fever with confusion, hallucinations, or excessive sleepiness
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) or any fever that lasts more than 24 hours
• Fever along with difficulty breathing, coughing up phlegm, or chest pain
• Signs of a urinary infection
• A fall or new weakness while you have a fever

Book a routine appointment if:

• A low-grade fever (just above normal) that settles within a day or two, with no other concerning symptoms
• A fever that is making you feel unwell but you can still eat, drink, and take your usual medicines
• You need advice about fever medicine or adjusting your Parkinson’s treatment while unwell

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine you. They will check your temperature, heart rate, breathing, and look for signs of infection. They will also assess how the fever is affecting your Parkinson’s symptoms, like movement and thinking.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test to check for a bladder infection
• Blood tests to look for signs of infection or inflammation
• Chest X-ray if a chest infection is suspected
• A swab or sputum sample if you have a cough
• A neurological assessment by a specialist if symptoms are unusual or severe

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain what they think is causing the fever. You may be given fluids and advice to help lower the fever. If needed, you will be started on treatment for the infection. Your Parkinson’s medicines will usually be continued, but your doctor may adjust them briefly if you are very unwell – always under medical supervision.

Treatment

Treatment for a fever in a person with Parkinson’s focuses on treating the cause (usually an infection) while keeping Parkinson’s symptoms stable. This may mean taking medicines for the infection, drinking plenty of fluids, and adjusting your usual routine only on your doctor’s advice.

Self-care at home

• Rest and get plenty of sleep
• Drink water, clear soups, or diluted fruit juice throughout the day
• Wear light clothing and keep the room cool, but avoid sudden chills
• Use a thermometer to check your temperature regularly
• Take your usual Parkinson’s medicines at the correct times unless your doctor tells you otherwise
• Ask your pharmacist or doctor whether it is safe for you to take an over-the-counter medicine to lower a fever – do not take anything without asking

Medical treatments

If a bacterial infection is found, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medicines to treat it. For more serious infections, you may need fluids through a drip in hospital. In the hospital, staff will closely monitor your temperature, blood pressure, breathing, and your Parkinson’s symptoms. They may adjust your Parkinson’s medicines to help you breathe, swallow, and stay safe while you recover.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat a fever. In advanced Parkinson’s, some people consider a procedure called deep brain stimulation, but this is unrelated to fever and is only discussed with specialists for specific symptoms.

Living with this condition

When a fever strikes, everyday tasks can become harder. Ask for help from family, friends, or care staff. Keep your phone and a glass of water nearby. Rest in a comfortable chair or bed, and try to get up slowly to avoid falls.

Lifestyle tips

• Set your home’s temperature to a comfortable level – not too hot or cold
• Wash your hands regularly and encourage visitors to do the same
• Keep up to date with vaccinations and health check-ups
• Have a plan for who to call if you feel unwell or have a fever
• Use the toilet regularly and drink enough to keep your bladder less full, which can help prevent urine infections

Diet and exercise

During a fever, eat small, light meals like soups, porridge, or yoghurt. If your appetite is poor, don’t force yourself – but keep sipping fluids. Once the fever settles, gentle activity like walking around the house or seated exercises can help keep your muscles moving. Rest is more important than exercise while you have an active fever.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A fever with Parkinson’s can make you feel anxious, confused, or low. This can be frightening, but it usually gets better as the infection clears. Talk to your care team about how you are feeling, and seek support if your mood stays low after you recover.

Prevention

Fevers cannot always be prevented, but you can reduce your chance of infections. Good hand hygiene, staying hydrated, and taking care of your skin and bladder can lower the risk. If you have trouble swallowing, a speech and language therapist can give you safe-eating advice to prevent chest infections.

Vaccines

Vaccines against flu, COVID-19, and sometimes pneumonia are recommended for people with Parkinson’s. Ask your GP or local health service which vaccines are right for you, based on your age and health.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for fever itself. However, regular check-ups with your Parkinson’s team can help spot risk factors early, such as swallowing problems or bladder issues, and help you stay healthier.

Complications

If left untreated

• An infection can spread through the body and become life-threatening (sepsis)
• Parkinson’s symptoms can become much worse and harder to control
• Breathing or swallowing problems can become dangerous
• Dehydration and falls may lead to a hospital stay

Long-term outlook

With prompt medical care, most fevers in Parkinson’s are treatable. Your Parkinson’s symptoms will usually return to their normal level once the infection clears. Early advice and treatment make a big difference. Your healthcare team is there to support you through the illness, so do not hesitate to reach out for help.

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