Some people experience sudden chills—sometimes strong enough to make the upper body shake—yet the sensation quickly fades without any concerning symptoms.
These chills may come with a feeling of coldness, even if the weather is mild. The skin may also change in appearance, forming small bumps resembling “goosebumps.”
This condition is medically known as chills, and experts say it is not always a reaction to cold temperatures. It can also occur as a subtle response to various internal or external triggers.
When Do Sudden Chills Happen?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, chills occur when the body attempts to raise its internal temperature in response to a drop in external temperature.
To do this, the body triggers rapid muscle contractions that produce heat. This mechanism activates the nervous system and serves as a protective response to maintain thermal balance.
Chills can appear alone or alongside other symptoms such as fever or influenza. In many cases, chills are an early indicator that the body is fighting an infection.
Causes of Chills
Chills can occur for several reasons. Here are the most common:
1. A Sudden Drop in Temperature
Moving from a warm environment to a cold one can trigger chills.
When the brain senses a rapid drop in temperature, it sends signals to the muscles to contract and generate heat, resulting in chills.
2. Infections
Before symptoms of colds or flu appear, a person may feel sudden chills.
This happens because the immune system tries to raise the body’s internal set-point temperature, making a person feel cold even though their measured body temperature may still be normal.
3. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Extended fasting or low glucose levels—especially in individuals with diabetes—can cause chills.
When the body lacks energy, it becomes cold and begins to shiver as a way to generate additional heat.
4. Hormonal Imbalances and Certain Medical Conditions
According to Medical News Today, hormonal changes such as menopause or an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can trigger episodes of unexplained chills.
Some medical conditions, including certain types of cancer, may also cause chills due to sudden drops in body temperature.
5. Emotional and Psychological Factors
Chills are not always triggered by cold.
Strong emotions—like listening to moving music, witnessing a powerful emotional scene, or feeling intense fear—can cause what is known as “aesthetic chills,” driven by nervous system responses to emotional stimulation.
How to Deal with Chills
The appropriate response depends on the cause:
• Warming the Body
If chills are caused by cold exposure, simple warming methods can help:
• Nutrition
If low blood sugar is the cause, a light snack containing carbohydrates and protein can help stabilize glucose levels.
People with diabetes should monitor their readings closely.
• Treating Infection
In cases related to viral or bacterial infections, rest and proper hydration are important.
Monitoring body temperature regularly is recommended.
If chills are frequent, unexplained, or accompanied by concerning symptoms, medical evaluation becomes essential.
Chills combined with high fever, chest pain, dizziness, or difficulty breathing may indicate serious conditions such as sepsis or blood disorders.
Are Chills Dangerous?
Chills are not a disease—just a symptom.
In most cases, they are harmless. However, there are situations where chills require urgent medical attention:
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If chills last more than two days or occur repeatedly without a clear reason
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If accompanied by a high fever or an unusually low body temperature
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If there is severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or extreme dizziness
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In children or the elderly, who have reduced ability to regulate body temperature
Chills should not be ignored.
It is important to note when and how they occur, as overlooking persistent chills may lead to serious health consequences.
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