Gastroenteritis and feeling cold all over - what does it mean?

Patients with gastroenteritis often experience chills, which is usually associated with the following conditions:

1. Rising phase of fever: Patients with gastroenteritis may have a fever. During the rising phase of body temperature, patients may experience chills, absence of sweating, and pale skin. Shivering and cold sensations may also occur.

2. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance: Gastroenteritis can lead to dehydration and disturbances in water and electrolyte balance, particularly the loss of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium. These imbalances can cause general discomfort, including chills. In severe cases, if the infection spreads into the bloodstream, it may lead to systemic infection (sepsis), at which time patients may alternate between high fever and chills, requiring urgent medical treatment.

3. Bacterial or viral infection: When the gastrointestinal tract is infected, the body releases inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and interleukins. These substances can affect the body's temperature-regulating center, leading to a drop in body temperature and causing the sensation of feeling cold.

It is recommended that patients experiencing such symptoms promptly replenish fluids and electrolytes, keep warm, and seek medical treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional.