Chills and upset stomach: what to know

Shivering may happen as the body responds to an infection, even before a temperature is measured. Nausea, loose stools or vomiting can also follow contaminated food, a stomach virus, heat exposure or fluid loss. Influenza can include chills and nausea, while dengue fever and malaria are considerations after relevant travel or mosquito exposure. A urinary tract infection or kidney infection may cause chills with nausea, especially when there is burning urine, frequent urination or pain in the side or back. The symptoms alone cannot identify the cause.

Rest somewhere comfortably cool or warm, sip water or an oral rehydration drink, and take small amounts often if your stomach feels unsettled. Choose simple foods when you can tolerate them. Check your temperature and note vomiting, diarrhoea, urine changes, pain, travel and new medicines. Avoid alcohol and strenuous activity. A clinician can help assess persistent symptoms and may need an examination or tests.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, trouble breathing, blue or clammy skin, severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or very little urine. Arrange prompt assessment for repeated vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, worsening chills, a high or persistent fever, or symptoms after travel to a malaria area. Sepsis can progress quickly, so sudden deterioration with chills warrants emergency attention.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a stomach infection, influenza, urinary infection or another cause; whether you need testing; which fluids and foods are suitable; and which medicines to avoid while vomiting or dehydrated.