Fever with a hot head and cold feet

During a fever, the body may conserve heat near its core while the hands and feet feel cool. Chills or shivering can occur as the body tries to raise its internal temperature, and sweating may follow as it cools. Touch is not a dependable way to judge fever, especially in children; use a suitable thermometer and observe alertness, breathing, skin colour, and hydration. Cold feet alone do not identify a particular illness.

Measure the temperature using the thermometer's instructions and repeat it if the reading does not fit how the person looks. Offer fluids or breastfeeds, encourage rest, and use comfortable layers rather than heavy bundling. Remove extra blankets if sweating begins. Do not use ice, very cold water, or alcohol rubs. If discomfort is significant, ask a pharmacist or clinician about an age- and weight-appropriate fever medicine and follow the dosing directions.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, blue or grey skin, confusion, a seizure, a stiff neck, severe weakness, or someone who is difficult to wake. Seek prompt advice for a young infant with fever, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, a mottled or rapidly changing rash, severe pain, or cold limbs that remain unusually pale or blue. A clinician may assess for an infection such as Bronchiolitis, Acute Bronchitis, or COVID-19 when other symptoms point that way.

Ask which thermometer method is suitable, how often to recheck, whether the circulation changes are concerning, and which symptoms should lead to same-day or emergency care.