I have scrub typhus – should I go to the hospital?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 57-year-old male who got scrub typhus after farming work and my cirrhosis made everything worse! Liver numbers are sky-high (ALT 1450) and ascites are getting worse fast. The black bite mark on the arm is superinfected with platelets only 22000. Varices started bleeding again on ammonia level 125. My fever stuck at 102.2 despite the cooling blanket - should I go to the hospital?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Yes, you should go to the hospital immediately. Scrub typhus in combination with cirrhosis and complications like bleeding varices, high ammonia levels, and worsening ascites is life-threatening. The infection could be causing or worsening your liver dysfunction.

Here is why urgent care is necessary:

Bleeding Varices: This can rapidly lead to shock.
Infection Risk: The infected eschar (bite mark) and low platelets increase sepsis risk.
Encephalopathy: High ammonia levels may worsen confusion or coma.
Liver Failure: Elevated ALT and worsening ascites suggest significant stress on your liver.

Treatment will likely involve intravenous antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline), managing variceal bleeding, reducing ammonia levels, and close monitoring. Do not delay seeking emergency care

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

.