What causes sudden chills and shivering in a 70-year-old elderly person, and what should be done?

Generally, sudden chills and shivering in a 70-year-old elderly person may be caused by factors such as a sudden drop in temperature, emotional fluctuations, unbalanced diet, hypothyroidism, or Parkinson's disease. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Sudden drop in temperature

If an elderly person is dressed too lightly and encounters a sudden drop in ambient temperature, the body may fail to adapt quickly to the external temperature change, resulting in sudden chills and shivering. Additional clothing should be added promptly, warming devices such as heating pads or electric blankets can be used, and warm beverages consumed to promote internal circulation.

2. Emotional fluctuations

When elderly individuals experience emotional stress, anxiety, or fear, the body may release excessive adrenaline, leading to increased heart rate, profuse sweating, and a drop in body temperature, thereby causing sudden chills and shivering. Psychological stress should be alleviated promptly through deep breathing, meditation, rest, or other relaxation techniques to stabilize emotions.

3. Unbalanced diet

A monotonous diet, long-term deficiency of essential nutrients, or prolonged fasting may lead to insufficient energy supply, resulting in sudden chills and shivering. A balanced diet should be maintained daily to ensure adequate caloric intake and sufficient nutrition.

4. Hypothyroidism

Long-term dietary imbalances may lead to iodine deficiency or excess, causing hypothyroidism. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the body's metabolic rate slows down, nervous system function is impaired, and sensitivity to cold increases, leading to symptoms of sudden chills and shivering. This condition is often accompanied by extreme fatigue and memory decline. Treatment may include medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or hydrocortisone tablets, as prescribed by a doctor.

5. Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease may be caused by genetic factors, aging, or prolonged exposure to chemicals, leading to reduced dopamine levels, impaired motor control, and dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which may manifest as sudden chills and shivering. This is typically accompanied by symptoms such as bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and reduced sense of smell. Medications such as levodopa tablets, pramipexole hydrochloride extended-release tablets, or trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, supplement dietary fiber and essential nutrients, take proper measures to stay warm, manage psychological stress promptly, and alleviate negative emotions.