Also known as: Rigors
Chills are episodes of shivering and feeling cold, often accompanying fever. The body generates heat through muscle contractions (shivering) to raise body temperature.
Chills are the body's mechanism to generate heat, typically in response to infection. When the hypothalamic thermostat is reset upward by pyrogens (fever-producing substances), the body perceives its current temperature as too low and shivers to warm up.
Rigors — severe, uncontrollable shaking chills — typically indicate bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream) and warrant urgent medical attention.
Chills without fever can occur from cold exposure, emotional responses, or low blood sugar.
There are several possible reasons you may be experiencing Chills. Here are the most common ones.
Bacterial and viral infections release pyrogens that reset the body's thermostat upward, triggering shivering.
The body shivers to generate heat when core temperature drops from environmental cold.
Respiratory viruses commonly cause chills along with body aches, fatigue, and fever.
UTIs can cause chills and fever, especially when infection spreads to the kidneys (pyelonephritis).
These approaches may help manage chills at home. Always consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
Layer with blankets to help the body reach its new set-point temperature.
Hot tea or broth raises core temperature and maintains hydration during fever.
Allow the body to focus its energy on fighting infection.
Temperature measurement, blood tests including cultures if severe, urinalysis, and chest X-ray if respiratory cause suspected.
Seek care if chills are accompanied by high fever over 103F, severe headache and neck stiffness, confusion, difficulty breathing, or in immunocompromised individuals.
Steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of experiencing chills.
Practice good hand hygiene
Stay up to date on vaccinations
Maintain strong immune system through sleep and nutrition
Dress appropriately for weather
Chills without fever can result from cold exposure, anxiety, low blood sugar, or the early stage of an infection before fever develops.
Severe shaking chills (rigors) often indicate a significant infection, possibly bacteremia, and should prompt medical evaluation.
Wrap up warmly, drink warm fluids, and rest. Take fever-reducing medication if fever is causing discomfort.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.