What should you know about high temp cold feet?

During a fever, the body may narrow blood vessels in the hands and feet while it raises its internal temperature. Feet can therefore feel cold while the chest or forehead feels hot, particularly during a chill. The skin may warm again as the fever settles.

The cause may be a common infection such as a common cold, COVID-19, or another respiratory illness. Cold feet alone cannot identify the cause. Look at the person's alertness, breathing, skin colour, hydration, and other symptoms rather than relying on temperature alone.

Measure the temperature with a reliable thermometer and write down when the fever and cold feet began. Offer frequent fluids and rest. Use light clothing and a comfortable room temperature; avoid very hot baths, heated pads, or vigorous rubbing of numb feet because burns can occur.

If the person is uncomfortable, ask a pharmacist or clinician about an age-appropriate fever medicine and follow the label. Do not give medicines intended for someone else, and take extra care with babies, older adults, pregnancy, or long-term illness.

Seek emergency help if cold feet occur with blue, grey, or mottled skin, difficulty breathing, severe drowsiness, confusion, a seizure, collapse, or a rapidly worsening condition. A child who is difficult to wake or not responding normally needs urgent assessment.

Arrange prompt medical advice when fever persists, the person cannot keep fluids down, urine becomes much less frequent, or there is a spreading rash, severe pain, or an obvious skin infection such as cellulitis.

Ask what temperature and duration should prompt review, whether the medicines being used are suitable, and how to recognise dehydration or poor circulation. Mention travel, sick contacts, rash, cough, urinary symptoms, and any change in behaviour.