Symptom 7: Fever and Chills – The Body’s Thermal Response
Fever and chills make their entrance when gallstones escalate to an infection or inflammation of the gallbladder, a condition known as cholecystitis. This thermal response is the body’s way of fighting back, attempting to quell the inflammation and fend off infection. Women may find their temperature spiking, accompanied by chills that leave them shivering.
This symptom duo is hard to ignore, creating a state of discomfort that impacts daily activities. The fever isn’t subtle; it’s high, often crossing 100.4°F (38°C), and the chills are its relentless companion. Women find themselves caught in a cycle of heat and shivers, a clear sign that all is not well within.
Understanding that fever and chills are more than just a flu-like symptom is vital. They’re indicative of gallstones causing serious complications, a signal that immediate medical attention is needed. Women are empowered to take these symptoms seriously, to recognize the urgency of the situation, and to seek help.
Navigating this thermal response requires prompt medical intervention. Women are encouraged to not brush off the fever and chills as a passing illness, but to see them as the gallstone red flags they are. It’s about responding with urgency, ensuring that the gallstones are dealt with and the body is given the chance to recover.
In summation, fever and chills stand as crucial symptoms in the gallstone narrative. They signal complications, urging women to act swiftly, to seek medical attention, and to address the gallstones at the heart of the issue. It’s a call to action, a demand for attention, ensuring that gallstones are dealt with and health is reclaimed. (7)
