Chills

Alternate Names : Rigors, Shivering

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment for chills is directed at the cause. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to reduce a person's fever. If a person has an infection, antibiotics may be advised. If a medication is the cause, it may need to be stopped.

Women going through menopause may want to discuss hormone replacement therapy options with the healthcare provider. This often consists of taking pills to replace the main female hormones, such as estrogen, that become low in menopause. A person with an autoimmune disorder may need medications to reduce inflammation or suppress the immune system. Someone with cancer may need surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects depend on the treatments used. For instance, ibuprofen can cause allergic reactions and stomach upset. Prednisone can cause weight gain, weakened bones, and mood swings. Hormone replacement therapy has many side effects, such as an increased risk of blood clots. Surgery carries a risk of infection, bleeding, and allergic reactions to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Someone with the flu often gets better in a few days with or without treatment. A person with cancer or an autoimmune disorder may need treatment for life.

How is the condition monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider. Other monitoring will depend on the cause. For instance, those with blood cancer may need repeated blood tests to follow the disease and the response to treatment.