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Chills are a feeling of being cold, often accompanied by shivering or trembling. They usually happen when your body's temperature changes, most often due to a fever. Chills are your body's way of trying to warm up when it thinks you are too cold, even if your actual body temperature is rising.
Key facts
Yes, chills are very common. Most people experience them at some point, usually during a cold, flu, or other infection.
Chills can affect anyone, but they are more common in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, as these groups are more prone to infections.
A doctor will ask about your symptoms, recent travel, medical history, and any medications you take. They will also check your temperature and do a physical exam to look for signs of infection.
Treatment for chills focuses on the underlying cause. If an infection is present, addressing it will usually resolve the chills. For mild illnesses, home care and rest are often sufficient.
If you have chills from a chronic condition, work with your doctor to manage the underlying disease. Keep track of when chills occur and any other symptoms, as this can help your doctor adjust your treatment.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins to support your immune system. Gentle exercise like walking can help, but avoid strenuous activity if you have a fever or feel unwell.
Not all chills can be prevented, but you can reduce your risk of infections that cause them. Good hygiene, vaccination, and avoiding known triggers can help.
Vaccines against flu, pneumonia, COVID-19, and other infections can lower your chances of getting sick and developing chills. Ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for you.
There is no routine screening for chills, but if you have a condition that makes you prone to infections (like diabetes), regular check-ups can catch problems early.
In most cases, chills go away once the underlying cause is treated. With prompt medical care, even serious infections can be managed well. Staying aware of your symptoms and seeking help when needed leads to the best outcome.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
The doctor will likely start with simple tests and may advise you to treat the underlying cause. In many cases, the cause is clear from the history and exam. You may be asked to monitor your temperature at home and return if symptoms worsen.
If an infection is found, your doctor may recommend antibiotics for bacterial infections or antiviral medications for certain viral infections. For inflammatory conditions, treatments such as anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice — do not self-medicate with leftover prescriptions.
Surgery is not used to treat chills. It may be needed for the underlying cause in rare cases, such as draining an abscess that is causing severe infection.
Frequent or unexplained chills can be worrying. It's normal to feel anxious or frustrated. Talk to your doctor about your concerns — they can help you understand what's happening and ease your worry.