Feeling Constant Chills: Causes, Diagnosis, and Management

Introduction

Feeling constantly cold or experiencing frequent chills can be concerning, especially when these symptoms persist despite medical evaluations and normal blood work results. In this article, we explore potential causes for such symptoms and discuss how to approach them with your doctor.

Finding the Cause

When you consistently feel cold and have chills, even though you do not have a fever and your blood tests come back normal, there could be several underlying factors contributing to these symptoms. Firstly, it's important to consider lifestyle and environmental factors. Factors such as a low metabolic state, poor circulation, or being thin can make you more sensitive to cold temperatures.

In addition, certain health conditions can also cause these symptoms. For instance, hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, can lead to feeling abnormally cold. Similarly, other conditions such as atherosclerosis, vasculitis, or even infections can affect blood circulation and cause coldness in the extremities.

Taking the Right Steps

It's crucial to consult your doctor repeatedly if you continue to experience these symptoms, as initial tests might not always uncover the problem. Make sure to discuss your symptoms in detail and keep pursuing the matter with your healthcare provider to ensure you get a comprehensive evaluation. Sometimes, specific tests related to particular conditions might be necessary to diagnose the underlying issue.

If you haven't already, make sure to get your thyroid checked, as it is a common reason for feeling cold regularly.

Common Misconceptions

Some people might initially brush off their symptoms with the statement that "nothing is wrong" based on normal blood test results. However, this is not always the case. Negative blood test results only indicate that no significant abnormalities were found at that moment but do not necessarily mean your entire body is functioning perfectly. Continue to seek medical advice and diagnosis as needed.

Older individuals often experience worsening circulation with age, leading to more pronounced coldness in the extremities. Thin people tend to have less bodily insulation, making them more susceptible to the cold. Conditions like hypothyroidism and fasting can also lower metabolic rates, contributing to feeling cold. If your circulation is poor, consider wearing long johns and a sweater to stay warm.

A Personal Anecdote

Some people experience coldness and chills in late spring, which might be related to specific illnesses. For example, an intestinal virus can cause similar symptoms. One personal story involves a recommendation to consume chicken noodle soup to combat such symptoms. The old doctor suggested eating one can of chicken noodle soup daily for three days, as the enzymes in chicken can help kill the virus in the affected area. This remedy has worked consistently for the individual in question.

However, it is important to note that this might not apply to everyone. To rule out infectious causes, consider getting tested for viruses such as COVID-19, flu, and other cold-related viruses. A healthcare professional can advise on appropriate tests and treatments based on your specific situation.

Conclusion

Feeling constantly cold and experiencing chills are concerning symptoms that require further investigation. By considering potential causes such as hypothyroidism, atherosclerosis, vasculitis, or infections, and by seeking ongoing medical care, you can work towards a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Regular monitoring of symptoms and following medical advice will help you find relief from these uncomfortable sensations.