Feeling hot then cold

Overview

Feeling hot then cold is a sensation where your body temperature seems to swing from warm to chilly. It is often a normal response to changes in your environment, emotions, or health. This feeling can happen when you have a fever, feel anxious, or when your body is fighting an infection. It is usually temporary and not a cause for alarm.

Yes, feeling hot then cold is a very common experience. Many people have it at some point, for example when coming down with a cold or during a fever.

It can affect anyone, but it is more common in people with infections, hormonal changes (such as during menopause or thyroid issues), anxiety disorders, or those who are overheated or dehydrated.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden feeling of being hot and sweaty, then chilled and shivery
• Flushed skin or goosebumps
• Feeling of a 'feverish' sensation without a high temperature
• Shaking or trembling

Symptoms in children

• They may feel warm to the touch, then complain of being cold.
• They might shiver or seek blankets.
• They may be irritable or lethargic.
• If they have a fever, they may alternate between hot and cold.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have a lower baseline body temperature, so feeling hot then cold can be a sign of infection even without a high fever.
• They may become confused or drowsy.
• Changes in skin color (pale or flushed) can be more noticeable.

Causes

Main causes

• Infection (such as cold, flu, urinary tract infection) causing fever
• Hormonal changes (like menopause, thyroid problems)
• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Dehydration or heat exhaustion
• Medication side effects (always check with your doctor)

Risk factors

• Being very young or elderly
• Having a weakened immune system
• Living in hot climates or overexerting in heat
• Chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease
• High stress levels

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion
• If a baby under 3 months has a fever or unusual behavior
• If you have a very high fever that does not improve
• If you have a stiff neck or severe headache with fever

Book a routine appointment if:

• If the feeling hot then cold lasts more than a few days
• If you have other symptoms like weight loss, night sweats, or pain
• If you are worried about a possible infection
• If you have unexplained changes in your temperature that keep returning

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and any other medical issues you have. They will check your temperature, pulse, and other vital signs.

Tests that may be done

• Temperature measurement (may be repeated over time)
• Blood tests to check for infection or thyroid problems
• Urine test to check for a urinary tract infection
• Sometimes a chest X-ray if a lung infection is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will listen to your concerns and try to find the underlying cause. They may offer advice on managing your symptoms or suggest further tests if needed. Usually, no special preparation is needed before the appointment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what is causing the hot-and-cold feeling. If it is due to an infection, your doctor may recommend rest and fluids. If it is related to anxiety, relaxation techniques may help. Hormonal causes might require hormone therapy. Always follow your doctor's advice.

Self-care at home

• Rest and drink plenty of fluids, like water or herbal tea
• Dress in layers so you can add or remove clothing as you feel hot or cold
• Keep your room at a comfortable temperature
• Use a cool cloth on your forehead if you feel hot, or a blanket if you feel cold
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can affect body temperature

Medical treatments

If an infection is diagnosed, your doctor may recommend antibiotics or antiviral medications. For hormonal causes, hormone therapy might be an option. For anxiety, therapy or relaxation techniques may be suggested. Always follow your doctor's prescribed plan.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a treatment for feeling hot then cold itself. Surgery may be needed if an underlying condition, such as an abscess or infection, requires it. Your doctor will explain if this is necessary.

Living with this condition

Feeling hot then cold can be uncomfortable, but it usually passes. You can manage it by staying hydrated, dressing appropriately, and taking breaks when you feel overheated or chilled. If it happens often, keep a diary of when it occurs to share with your doctor.

Lifestyle tips

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule to help your body regulate temperature
• Practice stress management, such as deep breathing or meditation
• Avoid extreme temperatures and sudden changes when possible
• Stay active, but avoid overexertion, especially in hot weather

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet supports your immune system. Stay hydrated with water. Gentle exercise like walking can help your body's temperature regulation, but avoid intense workouts when you feel unwell.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Recurring hot-then-cold sensations can be stressful and may cause anxiety. It's important to talk about how you feel. If you notice that worrying about it is affecting your daily life, consider speaking to a mental health professional. Remember, you are not alone.

Prevention

Not always, but you can reduce your risk by staying hydrated, avoiding extreme temperatures, managing stress, and practicing good hygiene to prevent infections.

Vaccines

Vaccines such as the flu shot can help prevent some infections that cause fever and temperature swings. Ask your doctor which vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for feeling hot then cold. However, regular checkups with your doctor can help detect underlying conditions like thyroid problems early.

Complications

If left untreated

• If caused by an infection, it could worsen and spread.
• Dehydration can occur if you are not drinking enough.
• Rarely, heat exhaustion or heatstroke can lead to serious complications.
• In older adults, undetected infection can cause confusion or falls.

Long-term outlook

For most people, feeling hot then cold is a temporary symptom that resolves on its own or with simple care. When caused by an underlying condition, treating the cause often stops the temperature swings. With proper medical advice and self-care, you can manage this symptom and stay well.

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