Key Points
- Key symptoms of infection are fever, chills, and clammy sweating.
- Other signs of infection may be shortness of breath, nasal or chest congestion.
- A urinary tract infection may present with frequent, burning, and painful urination.
- Symptoms of skin or wound infections are redness, swelling, soreness, and warmth. Pus and foul odors may also be present with an infection.
- Be sure to call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms to see if treatment is required.
Importance of Infection Recognition
If you are on a biologic medication, your immune system is altered. This puts you at a higher risk for serious infections. Please take a look at some of the signs and symptoms of infections so you know when to call your doctor.
Signs and Symptoms of Infection
One of the first signs of infection is a fever. It is encouraged that you have a thermometer accessible at home, that way, when you call your doctor you can let them know if you have a fever. Sweating such as feeling clammy or breaking out in chills and not being able to get warm is another possible sign of infection.
Another thing to take note of is any changes in your cough or the development of a cough or a sore throat. Also, be aware of any shortness of breath. Take note of any nasal congestion, chest congestion, or stiffness in your neck. While these symptoms may not mean infection, it is important you have them checked out.
Burning, painful, and frequent urination may be signs of a urinary tract infection. If you notice any unusual discharge including vaginal discharge or discharge anywhere else such as the eyes be sure to tell your provider.
Symptoms of a skin infection in a cut or open wound are redness, soreness, swelling, and warmth in that area. Keep an eye out for any pus or foul smelling odors coming from your cut.
If you have any of these symptoms, or symptoms related to shingles, it is important to let your doctor know so it can be diagnosed and treated if necessary.
