Shaking chills (rigors) are the body's reaction to a severe infection or the release of organisms, such as viruses or bacteria, into the bloodstream. These chills often occur with a high fever and sometimes make teeth chatter or, when severe, can cause uncontrollable shaking that can make a bed vibrate.
It can be hard to know if you should call your doctor when your child (age 1 to 11 years) has a fever, especially during the cold and flu season. The degree of the fever may not be related to the seriousness of the illness. The way your child looks and acts is a better guide than the thermometer. Most children will be less active when they have a fever.
If your child is comfortable and alert, is eating well, is drinking enough fluids, is urinating normal amounts, and seems to be improving, home treatment without medicine is all that's needed for a fever. Dress your child lightly. Don't wrap him or her in blankets. Dressing lightly will help your child's body cool down.
Try these home treatment measures to make sure that your child is drinking enough fluids and doesn't get dehydrated while he or she has a fever.
Lowering your child's temperature is important when the fever is causing discomfort. If your child is uncomfortable:
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