Chills - Symptoms, Causes, And Home Remedies

Our body has a unique way of regulating temperature when it falls below the normal, that is, with chills. These rapid shivers often appear alongside chills and fever, signalling that your immune system is working hard.

While chills are usually harmless, they can sometimes hint at an underlying condition that must not be ignored. In this blog, let us understand why they happen, what they mean and how you can easily get relief from them at home.

What are Chills?

When your body's temperature drops, chills are a natural way for it to warm itself up. Just as we rub our hands together to generate heat when we feel cold, our body produces chills to regulate body temperature. Although it is mostly harmless, sometimes they can indicate underlying diseases.

You may commonly experience chills symptoms, such as trembling or shivering. Many people commonly experience clattering teeth and goosebumps when they experience chills. Understanding why these reactions occur can help you recognise when it’s simply a cold response and when it may need attention.

What are Body Chills a Sign Of?

Body chills and fever can mean completely different things for different people. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

With that said, let us understand what your body indicates through chills:

Infections

Chills and fever are often signs of growing bacterial or viral infection. In fact, 76.2% people with COVID-19 reported experiencing fever and chills as symptoms. When your brain detects that a pathogen has infected your body, it tries to increase your core body temperature.

This defence mechanism helps fight off the infection. Common infections that cause chills include malaria, common cold, urinary tract infections, sepsis and strep throat.

Medications

Starting a new medication can cause chills and goose bumps. It is because your body is not accustomed to the medicine and needs time to adapt to it. Moreover, if you are increasing the dose of a medication, it can result in experiencing chills.

Some common medicines which can cause chills are antidepressants, antibiotics and chemotherapy. One can also experience it if they are going through withdrawal from certain medications.

Anaemia

Anaemia occurs when your body doesn't produce enough red blood cells or haemoglobin. It means your body doesn't get enough oxygen in your blood. The disease is often associated with chills and feeling cold all the time.

It happens because blood is deficient, which alters how your body generates heat and regulates temperature. Other common symptoms of anaemia are difficulty breathing, fatigue, headache, feeling unsteady, and palpitations.

Emotions

Intense emotions such as fear or stress also cause chills as the body’s fight-or-flight response is triggered. Your brain releases adrenaline, which causes the hair follicles to contract, invoking horripilation (goosebumps).

Surprisingly, positive emotions, too, can cause chills. Many people experience goosebumps when listening to a piece of music or experiencing joy. This rare phenomenon is termed ‘aesthetic chills’ or frisson. However, they are not a cause for alarm.

Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, can cause symptoms such as chills and fever. It is because your body is unable to regulate temperature without adequate glucose. Although chills alone are not a cause of concern, if they are accompanied by cold sweats, faster heart rates and anxiety and irritability, you should consult a doctor.

What Home Remedies Treat Chills and Fever?

Several simple, effective home practices can support your body’s recovery and ease discomfort when you experience chills and fever. These remedies help regulate temperature, maintain hydration, and promote overall comfort.

Here are some reliable options to consider:

Get Plenty of Rest

Since the body is fighting off viral or bacterial infections, people often feel nauseated and uncomfortable. A good way to find relief is to get good sleep and rest. It gives your body the energy to reduce the fever.

Take Lukewarm Baths

A common misconception is that people bathe with cold water during a fever to lower their temperature. However, they can make the fever worse. Bathing with lukewarm water helps your body relax and regulate body temperature.

Drink Fluids

Fever increases the chance of dehydration. Therefore, doctors always recommend staying hydrated if you have chills and a fever. However, just water may not provide comfort. Try drinking herbal tea or some cocoa to elevate your mood instantly.

How to Prevent Chills?

When looking for the treatment and management of chills, a valid question is how you can prevent them from happening. Let's see below:

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to serious problems and cause chills and fever. Therefore, be sure to drink at least 3 litres of water daily.

Stay Warm: As the weather shifts to winter, many people may catch a cold. However, you can prevent this by dressing in layers and avoiding cold beverages.

Warm Showers: If you frequently get chills, try getting warm showers instead of cold baths. These regulate your body temperature, leaving you warm and cosy.

Limit Caffeinated Drinks: Caffeinated drinks such as coffee can worsen anxiety, which contributes to bouts of chills.

Practice Proper Hygiene: Lastly, chills and fever are often a sign of infection. You can prevent it by using hand sanitiser and washing your hands before you eat.

Bottom Line

Chills and fever are rarely a cause of concern. But if they are persistent, then getting it checked by a doctor is necessary. In addition, trying home remedies will help you feel better and get back on your feet.

However, if they are caused by underlying diseases, getting a health insurance plan from Bajaj General Insurance early on would be a wise choice. It will help you navigate the expenses without compromising your health. Plus, you get benefits such as automatic restoration, a no-claim bonus, and more.

So, invest in a Bajaj General Health Insurance today, to cover yourself from different health issues as per your convenience and budget!

FAQs on Chills and Fever

Do chills mean a fever is breaking?

No, chills don't always mean that you are experiencing a fever. Commonly, chills are a way that your body regulates temperature. However, if you are experiencing chills while having a high body temperature, accompanied by sweating, then it is a sign of a fever breaking.

Is paracetamol good for chills and fever?

Yes, paracetamol is a good over-the-counter medication for treating the symptoms of fever and chills. The medicine contains acetaminophen, which works as a fever reducer and pain reliever. However, consult a doctor if your fever lasts longer.

What are the first signs of viral fever?

 The first few signs of a viral fever are fatigue, sudden high temperature, accompanied by body aches and chills. Many people report experiencing headaches, a sore throat, and a runny nose as well.

How long do chills and fever last?

Usually, chills and fever last for about 1 to 3 days in typical cases. However, the duration will depend on the underlying cause of chills. If your chills are caused by malaria, then they may last longer. But if they are caused by a mild fever, they will go away within a few days.

What is the best thing to drink when suffering from chills and fever?

Drinking 3 litres of water every day can help alleviate symptoms of chills and fever. Other than being hydrated, you can try broth or herbal tea with honey to soothe the cold and provide you with relief.

*Standard T&C apply.

Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For complete details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.