When to seek care for chills

Overview

Chills are a feeling of coldness and shivering, often along with a fever. They are not a disease themselves but a sign that something is going on in your body, like an infection.

Yes, chills are very common. Most people experience them at some point, often when they have a cold, flu, or other infection.

Anyone can get chills, but they are more common in people with weakened immune systems, young children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling cold even when you are in a warm room
• Shivering or shaking
• Goosebumps
• Clattering teeth

Symptoms in children

• Fussiness or crying more than usual
• Not wanting to eat or drink
• Being very sleepy or hard to wake up
• Shivering or trembling

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or acting differently than normal
• Feeling weak or unsteady
• Less noticeable fever – chills may be the only sign
• Loss of appetite

Causes

Main causes

• Infections like the flu, cold, pneumonia, or urinary tract infections
• Malaria – more common in travelers to certain parts of the world
• Autoimmune conditions where the body attacks itself
• Reaction to some medicines or vaccines
• Low blood sugar or thyroid problems

Risk factors

• Having a weakened immune system (for example, from chemotherapy or HIV)
• Living or traveling in areas with malaria or other tick‑borne diseases
• Being very young or very old
• Having chronic conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have chills along with a very high fever (over 40°C/104°F) that does not improve
• If you feel confused, have trouble breathing, or a stiff neck
• If you have severe pain anywhere in your body

Book a routine appointment if:

• If chills last more than a few days without a clear cause
• If you are concerned about any other symptoms like cough, pain, or rash
• If you have a chronic health condition and notice chills with a mild fever

Diagnosis

To find out what is causing your chills, your doctor or nurse will ask about your symptoms, any recent travel, and your medical history. They will also check your temperature and listen to your heart and lungs.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to look for signs of infection or inflammation
• Urine test to check for a urinary tract infection
• Chest X‑ray if pneumonia is suspected
• Throat swab or other tests based on your symptoms

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will try to find the underlying cause. They will explain what they think is happening and any treatments you might need. Most tests are quick and not painful. You may need to wait a day or two for results.

Treatment

Treatment for chills depends on what is causing them. Often, treating the underlying infection or illness will make the chills go away. You can also do things at home to feel better.

Self-care at home

• Rest and stay warm by using a light blanket
• Drink plenty of fluids like water or warm tea
• Use a cool cloth on your forehead if you have a fever
• Take your temperature to keep track of any fever

Medical treatments

If chills are from an infection, your doctor may recommend antibiotics or antiviral medicines. For other causes, they will treat the specific condition. Do not take any medicine without checking with your doctor, especially for children or if you have other health problems.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not usually needed for chills themselves. Only if an infection requires draining an abscess or removing an infected organ – but this is very rare.

Living with this condition

Chills usually do not last long. While you have them, focus on rest and drinking fluids. Keep an eye on your temperature and other symptoms. Most people recover quickly.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash your hands often to prevent infections
• Get enough sleep to keep your immune system strong
• Avoid sharing cups or utensils when you are sick

Diet and exercise

Eat healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your immune system. Gentle movement is fine if you feel up to it, but rest is more important when you have chills.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Feeling sick and chilly can make you feel anxious or down. It is normal to be worried. Try deep breathing or talking to someone you trust. If the worry does not go away, talk to your doctor.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent chills, but you can lower your risk of getting infections that cause them. Good hygiene and staying healthy help.

Vaccines

Vaccines against flu, pneumonia, and other illnesses can prevent some infections that cause chills. Ask your doctor which vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

Routine health checks can catch problems early. There is no specific screening for chills, but maintaining regular check‑ups helps your overall health.

Complications

If left untreated

• If the underlying infection is not treated, it can spread and become more serious
• Very high fever can lead to dehydration or seizures, especially in children
• In older adults, untreated infections can cause confusion, falls, or organ damage

Long-term outlook

For most people, chills are a temporary sign that the body is fighting something. With rest and proper care, you usually recover fully. Even when chills are from a serious infection, early treatment leads to good outcomes.

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