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.
Author:Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Medical Review:William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
Last Updated: 04/24/2007
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