Chills, vomiting and diarrhoea: what to know

Gastroenteritis and food poisoning commonly present with vomiting, loose stools, stomach cramps and chills. A fever may accompany the body's immune response. Rotavirus infection is another possible cause, especially when illness spreads through a household. Migraine can cause nausea and vomiting, sometimes with chills, while gallstones or pancreatitis may cause marked upper-abdominal pain with vomiting. These symptoms do not identify one cause on their own.

The main short-term concern is loss of water and salts. Repeated vomiting can make drinking difficult, and diarrhoea can add to fluid loss. Notice whether urine becomes unusually dark or infrequent, and whether dizziness appears when standing.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. If vomiting settles, try bland foods such as rice, toast, bananas or soup, then return gradually to normal meals. Rest, wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for other people while symptoms continue. Avoid alcohol and foods that worsen nausea. Do not take anti-diarrhoeal or anti-vomiting medicine without checking that it is suitable for you, particularly for a child, older adult or person with another illness.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, trouble breathing, a stiff neck, blood in vomit or stool, severe or worsening abdominal pain, or inability to keep fluids down. Get prompt medical advice if dehydration signs develop, symptoms are persistent, or the illness affects a baby, an older adult, someone pregnant, or someone with a weakened immune system. A clinician may consider conditions such as meningitis when chills occur with a severe headache, neck stiffness or light sensitivity.

Ask what cause best fits the timing and symptom pattern, which fluids are appropriate, whether you need an examination or testing, and which medicines should be avoided. Mention recent meals, travel, sick contacts, urine changes, pain location and any blood.