Chills

Self-care

Self-care includes drinking plenty of fluids and getting enough rest. For chills with a mild fever, sponging with lukewarm water and taking acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may help.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a health care professional immediately if:

• Stiff neck, confusion, irritability or fatigue.
• Severe cough, shortness of breath, abdominal pain or burning, or frequent urination.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if:

• Fever of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher in an infant younger than 3 months.
• Fever that lasts more than a day in an infant between 3 months and 1 year old.
• Fever that stays above 103 F (39.4 C) after 1 to 2 hours of self-care.
• No improvement after three days or chills lasting more than five days.