Experiencing chills can be unsettling, especially when they appear without obvious signs of illness. That sudden sensation of cold, shivering, or internal trembling often makes people wonder whether something serious is going on. While chills are commonly linked to infections, they can also occur on their own due to how the body regulates temperature and responds to stress, hormones, or environmental changes. Understanding the possible causes can help you decide when to manage symptoms at home and when to seek medical care.
For same-day general illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and make the best recommendations for care. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Why Do I Have Chills?
Chills happen when your muscles rapidly contract and relax to generate heat. This is the body’s natural response to feeling cold or detecting a perceived drop in internal temperature. Even without an infection, factors such as dehydration, anxiety, sudden exposure to cold air, or low blood sugar can trigger this response. In some cases, chills are linked to the nervous system reacting to stress or fatigue rather than illness.
Chills With Fever
When chills occur alongside a fever, they are usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection. As your internal temperature rises to combat bacteria or viruses, chills may appear first as the body “resets” its thermostat. This combination is often seen with flu-like illnesses, urinary tract infections, or other inflammatory conditions. Fever-related chills tend to subside once the fever breaks, either naturally or with treatment such as fluids and fever-reducing medication.
Chills Without Fever
Chills without fever are surprisingly common and are often less serious. They may result from mild viral infections in early stages, anemia, hormonal changes, or even emotional responses like anxiety or panic attacks. In colder environments, inadequate clothing can also cause persistent chills even when your temperature remains normal. However, if chills recur frequently or are accompanied by weakness, confusion, or unexplained weight loss, further medical evaluation may be needed.
How to Get Rid of Chills
Managing chills depends on the underlying cause. Start by keeping warm with layers of clothing or blankets and drinking warm fluids to support circulation. Proper hydration and balanced meals can help stabilize body functions, especially if chills are linked to low blood sugar or fatigue. If stress or anxiety is a trigger, slow breathing and rest may reduce symptoms. Over-the-counter remedies may help when chills are associated with mild infections, but persistent or severe chills should not be ignored. While occasional chills are often harmless, urgent care is a smart choice if chills are intense, persistent, or paired with symptoms like high fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, or confusion.
Get Same-Day Illness Diagnosis & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Livingston in Livingston, NJ
Urgent care centers provide prompt evaluation, diagnostic testing, and treatment without the long wait times of emergency rooms. Visiting urgent care ensures peace of mind and timely care, especially when chills signal an underlying condition that needs immediate attention. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. We can help you get a proper diagnosis and start the right treatment quickly. Early medical attention ensures your symptoms don't interfere with your quality of life or mask a more serious health concern. Most health insurance plans are accepted and low-cost options are available. If you have any additional questions about the illnesses we treat or the other services we provide, please contact us directly at (973) 601-2626.
