Chills from a hangover: what to know

Alcohol can increase fluid loss and disrupt sleep, appetite and the body's temperature regulation. You may feel cold or shivery while your actual temperature is normal. Skipping food can add shakiness, weakness or nausea. These effects should gradually settle as alcohol leaves your system and you replace fluids and food.

Chills are not proof that drinking caused every symptom. Fever, cough, urinary pain, side pain or worsening weakness may point to another condition such as Influenza, Pneumonia, Kidney Infection or Urinary Tract Infection. Recent travel or mosquito exposure can make Malaria or Dengue Fever relevant. Severe illness can sometimes involve Sepsis.

Stop drinking alcohol and rest somewhere safe. Sip water or an oral rehydration drink, and eat a light meal or snack if you can swallow comfortably. Use comfortable layers rather than extreme heat. Do not drive while impaired or use more alcohol as a supposed remedy. If vomiting continues, take small sips and ask someone trusted to check on you.

Call emergency services for difficulty waking, confusion, seizures, slow or irregular breathing, repeated vomiting, blue or pale skin, collapse or severe chest or abdominal pain after drinking. Seek medical advice for chills with a measured fever, breathing symptoms, painful urination, severe dehydration or symptoms that do not improve as expected. Never leave an unconscious or barely responsive person alone.

Share what and when you drank, whether other substances or medicines were involved, your last meal, vomiting, temperature and any long-term health conditions. Ask how to manage dehydration safely and whether another illness needs assessment.