SHIVERING FROM COLD IS IT DANGEROUS ?
Shivering from the cold even when the ambient temperature is normal is something you've probably experienced.
Shivering from the cold even when the ambient temperature is normal is something you've probably experienced. Shivering is usually a natural response to extremely cold temperatures. Our bodies attempt to maintain their internal temperature by contracting.
If this happens under normal circumstances, it could be a sign of a serious health problem.
Causes of Shivering
Essentially, shivering is the body's mechanism for generating heat when the ambient temperature drops drastically.
However, this isn't always the case; several medical conditions can also trigger shivering even at normal temperatures.
Here are some causes of shivering from the cold that we should be aware of:
1. Fever: The body fights infection
One of the most common causes of shivering from the cold is a fever. When the body's temperature rises above 37.7 degrees Celsius, the body responds by shivering.
This body response is actually an indication of the body's defenses, attempting to return the body's temperature to its normal state.
Fever itself can occur due to the presence of infection or inflammation in the body.
When an infection occurs, the human body naturally attempts to fight it. Every human being is equipped with an immune system, so if something strange happens in the body, it automatically responds naturally to address it.
2. Hypoglycemia: low blood sugar levels.
If you feel shivering from the cold, it could be due to hypoglycemia, which is blood sugar levels that are too low.
Low blood sugar levels can occur because the body lacks energy due to limited food intake.
For people with diabetes, hypoglycemia often occurs when their blood sugar levels drop below normal limits.
Symptoms include a feeling of extreme hunger, shivering, weakness, and cold sweats.
This condition can also be accompanied by a rapid heartbeat, visual disturbances, and even seizures.
3. Hypothyroidism: the thyroid gland is not functioning properly.
This health disorder can arise because the thyroid gland is unable to produce enough thyroid hormone.
The impact is a slowing of the human body's metabolism, one of the symptoms of which is easily shivering from the cold.
In addition to shivering, hypothyroidism can also cause drastic weight gain, a swollen face, and muscle weakness. Other effects include dry skin, constipation, and even prolonged depression.
4. Side Effects of Medication
Not many people know that some medications we frequently consume can cause shivering. This is a side effect of the medication we've taken.
Over-the-counter medications, such as blood pressure lowering medications or herbal supplements, can trigger shivering if taken without following the recommended dosage.
Therefore, it's important to always consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication or herbal medicine to avoid side effects.
5. Side Effects of Anesthesia
One common condition after surgery is shivering due to the effects of the anesthetic.
Although not everyone experiences this, for some people, the effects of anesthesia lower their body temperature, causing shivering.
Shivering for no apparent reason
Shivering isn't always caused by a low body temperature. This symptom could be a sign of a health problem that requires serious attention.
If you experience shivering without a significant change in body temperature, it's best to see a doctor immediately.
Tags:
HEALTH