I have a fever (from a cold)... but why does my body feel cold?

If you have a bad cold or the flu, you may develop a high fever.

First, let's look at the causes and reasons for fever. When a virus or bacteria enters the body, the body raises its temperature to defend itself. This is because raising body temperature boosts immunity, making it easier to kill viruses and bacteria.

When a virus or bacteria invades the body, immune cells and immune-related substances such as white blood cells, cytokines, and prostaglandins increase, and these increased substances raise the body temperature reference value in the lower part of the brain that controls body temperature.

The reason you feel cold when you have a fever is because of this body temperature reference value.

 

Normally, the brain gives orders to maintain the body temperature at 36.5 degrees, but when a virus or bacteria invades, the brain raises the body temperature reference value. This causes you to feel cold, as your current body temperature and the surrounding temperature feel lower than normal. Shivering occurs as your body attempts to raise its temperature through muscle contraction.

So, what should you do if you have a fever but are cold? Covering yourself with a blanket because you're cold can cause a rapid rise in body temperature, which is dangerous. Children under six, in particular, can experience febrile convulsions. Therefore, it's recommended to wipe your body with a towel soaked in lukewarm water. However, avoid using cold water, as this can constrict blood vessels and further increase body temperature.

You don't necessarily need to take antipyretics just because you have a fever. For mild fevers, antipyretics aren't necessary. However, if your temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) or you're pregnant, taking antipyretics is recommended.

 

Even if a child's temperature does not exceed 38°C (100.4°F), if they are lethargic, not eating well, fussy, or otherwise distressed due to a fever, give them an antipyretic. Furthermore, those with a history of febrile convulsions, chronic cardiopulmonary disease, metabolic disease, or neurological disorders are at higher risk for febrile convulsions, so antipyretics should be used even when the temperature is below 38°C (100.4°F).

 

Febrile seizures are not uncommon, affecting approximately 1 in 10 children. If your child experiences a seizure at home, lay them flat on a flat surface, call 911, and take them to the emergency room. If vomiting occurs during a seizure, do not force food or vomit out of the mouth. Instead, lay the child on their side to allow it to drain naturally. Filming the seizure can be extremely helpful during diagnosis.

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It's called chills

When you really catch a cold, your body stops producing heat.

There are times when I'm wrapped in a blanket because I'm cold.

 

It's because of the virus invasion.

 

It's scary these days

We also have employees who are absent.