What should you know about cold feet and hands and fever?

When the body raises its core temperature, blood vessels near the skin may narrow. This can make the hands and feet feel cold, with shivering, while the trunk feels warm. Fever may accompany infections such as the common cold, COVID-19, acute bronchitis, bronchiolitis, or croup. A painful red or swollen area can suggest a local skin infection such as cellulitis.

The combination does not by itself show which infection is present. Assess breathing, alertness, hydration, rash, pain, cough, and the speed of change. A single unusually cold, pale, blue, painful, or swollen limb is a separate warning sign.

Measure the temperature, encourage small frequent drinks, and allow rest. Use light layers and a comfortable room rather than heavy blankets that trap too much heat. Warm hands and feet with socks or a blanket, but avoid direct high heat. Use fever medicine only as directed for the person's age and health, and check with a clinician before combining products.

Call emergency services for trouble breathing, blue or mottled skin, confusion, collapse, a seizure, extreme difficulty waking, or inability to drink. Seek prompt care for severe dehydration, a rapidly spreading rash, severe local pain or swelling, or a limb that suddenly becomes cold and changes colour. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and people with serious long-term conditions may need advice sooner.

Ask how often to check temperature, which fluids and fever medicines are suitable, and which changes require emergency help. Tell the clinician about breathing symptoms, rash, pain, recent travel, sick contacts, new medicines, and how alert the person is.