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Forum Name: Oral and dental diseases

Question: Tooth Abcess & Sudden Flu-like Symptoms

BD - Fri Sep 05, 2003 8:03 pm

Hi I had a question. This morning I woke up feeling not-so-great, and as the morning progressed it got worse until I was nauseus and had to leave class. My symptoms include: All-Over Headache, Stiffness on the lower neck/upper back, Nausea, 101. 2 temperature, tiredness, Over-all malaise. About 10 days ago I had a very corroded tooth built up (bottom back molar). As soon as the novacaine wore off I got an amazing toothache. I told my dentist but he couldn't do anything cause I was moving the next day. Since then the toothache has continued (under my chin, on the side, and a small earache) and I have had to take Ibuprofen twice a day to get rid of the pain. This morning when I woke up the pain was considerably less, I haven't had to take any pain killers at all today. My question is - is it possible that the tooth could've drained an infection into another part of my body and that is why I am feeling so sick & sore now but the toothache has lessened? Or am I just being paranoid and it's probably the flu? Thanks.

Dr. Tamer Fouad - Fri Sep 05, 2003 8:34 pm

DB, Is your tooth tender when you press on it slightly? Caries can be a source of infection. I would advise you to see a dentist soon regardless of whether this is the cause of the Fever or not. You should be examined and evaluated for Fever. A simple physical examination can reveal the source of your infection most of the time. Best wishes,

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