What should you know about stomach bug shivers?

Shivering is rapid muscle activity that can occur as the body responds to a rising temperature or feels chilled. Gastroenteritis may also leave you weak after vomiting or diarrhoea, which can make cold sensations more noticeable. Shivers do not identify the exact cause on their own. Consider the wider pattern, including fever, abdominal pain, nausea, stool changes and how much you are drinking.

Measure your temperature if you can and replace lost fluids with frequent small sips. Use light layers and rest in a comfortable room rather than overheating yourself. Once vomiting settles, try simple foods if hungry. Wash hands carefully after using the bathroom and before eating. Avoid taking leftover antibiotics; they do not treat every cause of gastroenteritis and may be harmful when used without advice.

Get urgent help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, a stiff neck, severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or an inability to keep fluids down. Arrange medical advice when shivers keep returning, fever is persistent or concerning, urine becomes very infrequent, or the person affected is a young child, older adult, pregnant, or medically vulnerable.

Ask whether the temperature and shivers fit gastroenteritis, how to replace fluids, and which changes should prompt urgent review. Tell the clinician when the chills began, whether vomiting or diarrhoea is present, and any medicines already taken.