Understanding Chills: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

Possible causes of chills

Chills are a common symptom of many illnesses, including the flu, colds, and other viral infections. Chills are caused by a rapid increase in the body's temperature. This can happen when the body is trying to fight off an infection or when it is exposed to cold temperatures.

When to see a doctor

Chills are usually a harmless symptom, but they can sometimes be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. See a doctor if you have chills along with any of the following symptoms:

*Confusion

*Fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher

*Severe headache

*Stiff neck

*Rash

*Difficulty breathing

*Chest pain

*Abdominal pain

*Vomiting

*Diarrhea

Treatment

The treatment for chills depends on the underlying cause. If the chills are caused by a viral infection, there is no specific treatment. The chills will usually go away on their own within a few days.

If the chills are caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be necessary.

In some cases, chills can be caused by exposure to cold temperatures. In these cases, the chills can be treated by warming the body up.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent chills, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of getting sick, including:

*Washing your hands frequently

*Avoiding contact with people who are sick

*Getting a flu shot

*Eating a healthy diet

*Getting enough sleep