What Causes Shivering And Feeling Cold?

Posted on Thu, 24 Apr 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 24 Apr 2014 Answered on

Thu, 15 May 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : My husband,86, has heart and pulmonary problems. This morning he started shuddering violently while still in bed. He was cold and wanted extra cover which I gave him. He wouldn't stop shuddering so I gave him a lorazapam .05 and he quieted down shortly thereafter. However, he wanted ice water about 3-4 times. Now, 4 hours later, he is still in bed, sort of in a daze but laying quietly. What should I do?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Send him to the clinic&consult with his physician.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Shuddering, having cold and wanting extra cover would be a sign of viral infection. I advise to :
- monitor blood pressure frequently
- measure his blood sugar levels
- give him water and other juices (more fluids)

As he is having a history of heart failure and COPD, I also recommend to send him to his physician as further evaluation of his health problems is necessary. Furthermore, I think he might need to start an antibiotic course as bacterial bronchitis is often associated with COPD.

Wish fast recovery!
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar