Question:
Is it normal to have a fever post-op?

I am 6 days post-op and for the third night in a row I have a fever. Right now it is 100.3. Why am I doing this? I have heard that it's ok.. it is just my body healing.. and I have heard that it could be infection. I'm confused and scared!    — Jen S. (posted on August 21, 2001)

August 21, 2001
I don't know if it is normal but off and on I ran a low-grade fever the first week - usually at night and then it would go down during the day. We told the surgeon's office and they said as long as it didn't go higher (and it seems it was 100.3, too)and there was no bad smell from the incision, it was probably OK. I would let your surgeon's office know, though. They know more about your particular case.
   — Diane O.

August 21, 2001
I too had a fever off and on for the first week or so home, and a slight one the first few days in the hospital, as long as it does not go too high, you should not worry. Just make sure you are getting enough fluids, that will help a lot. And Gatorade (the Frost flavors - the white and blue are the best) were my saviors. Don't fret too much, just take it easy and rest. It is what your body needs to heal, if you go above 101-102 consistently, I would call your surgeons office to ask if there is anything they would like you to do, i.e. fever reducer like tylenol, if you can have it? But it seems to be normal.
   — Missy J.