Seasonal flu affects millions of people every year, and while symptoms vary from person to person, one of the most confusing sensations many experience is chills that appear suddenly, disappear, and return again. Understanding why this happens can help you manage your symptoms more confidently and know when to seek medical attention.
For same-day flu symptom relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our board-certified medical providers specialize in diagnosing and treating various conditions, including influenza. We’re open 7 days a week– just walk-in today!
What Are the Stages of the Flu?
The flu typically progresses through four main stages:
1. Incubation Stage
This is the period between exposure and the first sign of symptoms. It usually lasts 1 - 4 days. You may feel completely normal even though the virus is multiplying in your body.
2. Onset of Symptoms
This stage comes quickly and often without warning. Many people suddenly develop fatigue, fever, chills, headache, and body aches. The rapid onset is one reason the flu feels more intense than a common cold.
3. Peak Illness
This is when symptoms are at their worst, usually days 2 to 4. Fever, chills, sore throat, cough, and weakness are usually strongest during this stage.
4. Recovery
Most people begin to feel better after 5 - 7 days. Cough and fatigue may linger a bit longer, but the worst symptoms begin to fade.
How Do I Know Whether I Have the Flu?
You may have the flu if your symptoms develop suddenly and include:
- Fever or feeling feverish
- Chills
- Body aches
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
- Occasional nausea or diarrhea (more common in children)
Unlike a cold, which appears gradually, the flu hits hard and fast. If your symptoms seem to appear overnight and make it difficult to function, it is more likely influenza than a typical cold.
Does the Flu Cause Chills?
Yes, chills are one of the most common flu symptoms. Chills happen because your body is trying to raise its internal temperature to fight off the influenza virus. As your temperature rises rapidly, you may feel waves of shivering or coldness even though your body is heating up.
These chills can come and go, especially during the early days of the illness. They may reappear when your fever spikes or drop off as the fever decreases.
How Long Do Chills Last?
Flu-related chills typically last 1 to 3 days, depending on how long your fever remains active. Some people may experience short, sudden bursts of chills throughout the day, especially if their fever fluctuates. As your temperature begins to stabilize, chills usually fade away.
Get Walk-In Flu Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Livingston in Livingston, NJ
While chills alone are usually not dangerous, you should visit urgent care if they come with a high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent vomiting, dehydration, or if your symptoms worsen after initially improving. Medical providers can perform rapid testing, treatment, and relief, helping you recover faster and avoid complications. Don’t hesitate to get the care you need! Visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our board-certified medical providers are here 7 days a week to provide symptom relief for patients of all ages.
Our center accepts most health insurance plans and offers low-cost options for any self-paying patient. If you have any additional questions about flu treatment, or other services we provide, please call us directly at (973) 601-2626.
