About this topic
Trench fever is caused by a germ that is spread by body lice. The infection may be found in your blood, skin, and urine. You may start showing signs within 5 to 20 days of being exposed to this germ. ‚
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What are the causes?
Trench fever is caused by the Bartonella quintana germ. You may get infected by: ‚
- Coming in contact with the feces of body lice
- Louse bite
- Scratching skin that has been bitten by an infected louse
What can make this more likely to happen?
This germ is spread through lice. You are more likely to get lice if you: ‚
- Live close together or in a crowded place.
- Are not able to take a bath on a regular basis.
- Are homeless or live in a refugee camp.
- Are in prison.
- Drink too much alcohol or have poor nutrition.
- Are taking care of people with trench fever.
What are the main signs?
- Fever of 100.4 ‚ °F (38 ‚ °C) or higher and chills
- May be sudden and last for 4 to 5 days
- May come and go in 5-day cycles for 2 to 6 weeks
- Headache
- Back and neck pain
- Muscle pain
- Rash, often on the chest
- Pain in your shin bone
- Weakness
- Nausea or throwing up
- Weight loss
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor will look at your skin for rashes and lesions. The doctor will check your belly for enlarged organs and feel your neck, armpits, and groin for lumps. You may need to have: ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Trench fever can be treated with drugs. It may take 2 to 3 months for all of your signs to go away. The illness can return if you do not take all of the drugs ordered. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Fight an infection
- Lower fever
- Ease headaches
- Help with muscle and joint pain
What problems could happen?
- Swelling of lymph nodes
- Bacteria in the blood
- Infection of valves in the heart, if trench fever left untreated
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Take a bath or shower often. Make sure that you wash and change your clothes regularly.
- Spray insecticides and pesticides to kill or reduce louse infestation in your place.
- Do not share personal items like brushes, combs, towels, or clothes.
- You are more likely to get this illness again if you do not take all of the drugs your doctor ordered.
Where can I learn more?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‚
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2012/chapter-3-infectious-diseases-related-to-travel/bartonella-associated-infections.htm ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚