When you have a cold and no medication, what should you do?
In addition to muscle pain throughout the body brought on by colds, the flu, or overwork, body aches are symptoms that frequently accompany fever, headache, exhaustion, and chills. Among these, chills are an everyday physiological occurrence where the body shivers when its temperature rises and the brain perceives it as being lower than it is. However, these chills can be extremely painful and uncomfortable when no medication is available. What are some natural remedies for chills that don’t involve painkillers or antipyretics?
1. Stay Warm — Smartly
Layering up is your first line of defense. When the chills hit, your body is trying to generate more heat. Wearing lightweight clothing in layers, wrapping up in a blanket, and using heating pads or an electric blanket can help stabilize your internal temperature. Warming up externally tricks your brain into recognizing that the body isn’t as cold as it feels, which can shorten the duration of chills.
2. Sip Something Warm
Dehydration can worsen symptoms, mainly when your body works overtime to fight an illness. Keep warm fluids coming—herbal teas like ginge, citrus-basedd infusions, or even lukewarm water. Ginger tea, in particular, helps increase circulation, fight inflammation, and support your body’s efforts to warm up.
3. Move—Just a Little
Light movement may not seem ideal when you’re shaking from chills, but it can help. A gentle massage on your hands and feet or a short stretching session can boost circulation and spread warmth evenly throughout the body. Soaking your feet in warm water or rubbing your palms together can also soothe discomfort while offering a small mental lift.
4. Don’t Skip Meals
Even if your appetite is low, your body needs fuel to regulate its temperature and heal. Stick to simple, warm meals like broth, porridge, or soup. Foods balanced with carbohydrates and protein provide energy without overwhelming your digestive system. Spicy dishes, however, are best avoided—they may irritate your system further.
5. Rest Is Non-Negotiable
Your body is working hard behind the scenes. Chills often signal that energy is used to generate heat and fight infection. That’s why rest is critical, not just sleep but actual physical downtime. Find a quiet, cozy space to relax and let your body do its job. When you’re well-rested, your immune system can rebound more effectively.
When It’s Time to Call a Doctor
Natural remedies can go a long way, but not always far enough. Suppose a high fever, severe headache, or trouble breathing accompany chills. In that case, it’s time to see a healthcare provider—persistent or worsening symptoms could indicate a more serious infection or complication that needs medical attention.
You don’t need to reach for the medicine bottle the moment chills strike. With a few thoughtful steps—keeping warm, staying hydrated, eating nourishing food, and resting—you can often ease your symptoms and support your body’s recovery process. Sometimes, the best medicine is letting your body do what it’s built to do—heal itself.
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