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Can scrub typhus infection cause long-term complications?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My 48-year-old uncle has had a persistent fever for five days. Initially, we suspected jet lag, but he developed a rash, severe headache, muscle pain, and chills. The hospital mentioned scrub typhus but only prescribed basic fever medication. I read that untreated scrub typhus can worsen. Should he get tested again? Which antibiotics are effective? He also has high blood pressure, so I want to ensure any medication is safe for him. Can scrub typhus cause long-term complications?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Reema Wankar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is a highly experienced medical professional with an MBBS and an MD in Community Medicine. She has over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, providing comprehensive healthcare to diverse patient populations. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Wankar has contributed to both national and international publications, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest trends in medical management. Her research interests and published work reflect her dedication to advancing healthcare practices, focusing on innovative approaches in medicine and patient care. Her extensive experience allows her to deliver patient-centered care, addressing both individual and community health needs. She has passed MBBS in the year 2010 MD in the year 2016 from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik, Maharashtra.

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Hello,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

If there is a recent travel history to areas with high vegetation or where scrub typhus is endemic, scrub typhus infection is possible.

Tests may take time, so physicians often recommend starting antibiotics empirically. You can take the following medicines:

  1. Doxycycline 100 milligrams – Twice daily for seven days.

  2. Paracetamol 500 milligrams – Thrice daily for five days.

  3. Pantoprazole 40 milligrams – Once daily on an empty stomach for seven days.

These medications are safe with blood pressure medicines. Early treatment reduces the risk of complications.

Recommended investigation:

  1. Complete blood count (CBC).

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Investigations to be done

Complete blood count
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At April 2, 2025
Reviewed At April 2, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is a highly experienced medical professional with an MBBS and an MD in Community Medicine. She has over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, providing comprehensive healthcare to diverse patient populations. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Wankar has contributed to both national and international publications, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest trends in medical management. Her research interests and published work reflect her dedication to advancing healthcare practices, focusing on innovative approaches in medicine and patient care. Her extensive experience allows her to deliver patient-centered care, addressing both individual and community health needs. She has passed MBBS in the year 2010 MD in the year 2016 from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik, Maharashtra.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Reema Wankar
Dr. Reema Wankar

Family Physician

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is a highly experienced medical professional with an MBBS and an MD in Community Medicine. She has over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, providing comprehensive healthcare to diverse patient populations. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Wankar has contributed to both national and international publications, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest trends in medical management. Her research interests and published work reflect her dedication to advancing healthcare practices, focusing on innovative approaches in medicine and patient care. Her extensive experience allows her to deliver patient-centered care, addressing both individual and community health needs. She has passed MBBS in the year 2010 MD in the year 2016 from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik, Maharashtra.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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