Can Depression Cause Fever[High Temprature]?

Munira Electricwala

Psychologist | Researcher | Psychological Scientist | Writer

16 Sep 20244 min read

Women sat with hot tea with closed ears using her hands on sofa looks like she is suffering from fever

Introduction: Can Depression Trigger Fever?

Fever and depression are both significant health concerns that can affect individuals in various ways. While fever is commonly associated with infections, the relationship between depression and fever is less straightforward. This article explores whether depression can trigger fever and vice-versa, delving into the complexities of their interconnection.

Understanding Fever and Depression by Definition

Fever is defined as a temporary increase in body temperature, often due to an illness. Typically, a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) indicates a fever, signalling that the body is responding to various stimuli, such as infections, inflammatory processes, or even stress.

Depression, or major depressive disorder, is a serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.

Can Fever Cause Depression and Vice-Versa?

While the question is whether fever can trigger depression, research indicates that the relationship is complex and bidirectional. Some studies suggest that fever can lead to depressive symptoms, particularly in vulnerable populations, while others indicate that depression may contribute to physiological changes, including fever.

Present Research Findings on the Connection Between Fever and Depression

Studies Suggesting a Link: Research has shown that individuals with depression often experience higher body temperatures. A 2024 study involving over 20,000 participants found a correlation between increased severity of depressive symptoms and elevated body temperatures, suggesting that depression may affect thermoregulation.

Psychogenic Fever: Some individuals may experience what is known as psychogenic fever, where stress and emotional turmoil lead to increased body temperature without an underlying physical cause. This phenomenon highlights the potential for mental health issues to manifest as physical symptoms, including fever.

Recurrent High Fever in Depressed Patients: A case report documented in 2024 of an adolescent who experienced recurrent high fevers associated with depressive episodes. Following treatment for depression, both the fever and depressive symptoms resolved, suggesting a potential link between the two conditions.

Stress and Thermoregulation: Stress, a common precursor to depression, has been shown to influence body temperature regulation. Studies indicate that stress can activate pathways in the brain that may lead to increased body temperature, further complicating the relationship between mental health and physical symptoms.

Inflammatory Response: Depression is often associated with increased inflammatory markers in the body, which can also lead to fever. This connection underscores the importance of understanding how mental health can influence physical health outcomes.

Symptoms of Depression to check. This will help you understand when to seek help:

Emotional Symptoms

Persistent Sadness: A continuous feeling of sadness or emptiness.
⁠Irritability: Increased frustration or anger over minor issues.
Feelings of Hopelessness: A belief that things will never get better.
⁠Guilt or Worthlessness: Excessive feelings of guilt or a sense of being a failure.

Physical Symptoms

Changes in Appetite: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in eating habits.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or sleeping too much.
Fatigue: A constant feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.
⁠Aches and Pains: Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive issues.

Cognitive Symptoms

⁠Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
Negative Thinking: A tendency to dwell on negative thoughts or events.

Behavioural Symptoms

⁠Withdrawal from Social Activities: Avoiding friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities.
⁠Decreased Performance: A decline in work or academic performance.
Engaging with healthcare providers and considering treatment programs offered by Mave Health can benefit those navigating these challenges.

For those seeking help, consider exploring the Mave Health Program and its resources on tDCS, which offers support for mental health and wellness. Remember, professional guidance is essential for navigating these complex health issues.

Do Read More About Depression

Conclusion

The relationship between depression and fever is complex and multifaceted. While evidence suggests that depression can contribute to increased body temperature and even fever, it is essential to approach this topic with caution. Individual factors, including overall health, stress levels, and existing medical conditions, play a significant role. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression or unexplained fevers, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance. Mental health and physical health are intricately linked, and addressing both can lead to better overall well-being.

References

Guo, X., Li, Y., Bai, L., Lin, F., Chen, J., & Zou, T. (2024). Unexplained recurrent high fever observed in a depressed adolescent. BMC Psychiatry, 24(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-024-05705-3
Mason, A. E., Kasl, P., Soltani, S., Green, A., Hartogensis, W., Dilchert, S., Chowdhary, A., Pandya, L. S., Siwik, C. J., Foster, S. L., Nyer, M., Lowry, C. A., Raison, C. L., Hecht, F. M., & Smarr, B. L. (2024). Elevated body temperature is associated with depressive symptoms: results from the TemPredict Study. Scientific Reports, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-51567-w
Oka, T. (2015). Psychogenic fever: how psychological stress affects body temperature in the clinical population. Temperature, 2(3), 368–378. https://doi.org/10.1080/23328940.2015.1056907
Santos-Longhurst, A. (2018, July 31). Can Stress Make You Sick? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/can-stress-make-you-sick
Slavich, G. M., & Irwin, M. R. (2014). From stress to inflammation and major depressive disorder: A social signal transduction theory of depression. Psychological Bulletin, 140(3), 774–815. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0035302
University of California San Francisco. (2024, January 29). Are Body Temperature and Depression Linked? Science Says, Yes. | UC San Francisco. Are Body Temperature and Depression Linked? Science Says, Yes. | UC San Francisco. https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2024/01/427051/are-body-temperature-and-depression-linked-science-says-yes
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