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Hi everyone, just wondering if chills are common with RA. Thanks.

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Cobble Hill, British Columbia, Canada
May 8
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Answer Summary

Members responded warmly to a question about whether chills are common with RA, with many confirming they experience both chills and... Read more

Members responded warmly to a question about whether chills are common with RA, with many confirming they experience both chills and overheating, often cycling between the two unpredictably. Several members shared practical coping strategies like using heated throws, heated mattress pads, and extra blankets to manage the constant cold feeling. A recurring theme was the connection between RA, anemia, and fatigue, with members encouraging each other to get blood levels checked and to work closely with their doctors on treatment.

A myRAteam Member

I seem to be Cold almost all the time. My Husband bought me a heated throw which I have on almost daily….like Now. My daughter bought me a heated mattress pad….. hubby can’t understand how I can sleep with it on “5” and still have on 2 blankets….. lol. But I will agree, sometimes I’m just sitting here in my chair and I start sweating for no logical reason. Blessings to all this day before Mothers Day

May 9 (edited)
myRAteam

Yes, chills can definitely be a common experience with RA! Many people with RA report feeling cold, sometimes alternating between feeling freezing and then suddenly overheated.

One myRAteam member described it well: feeling mostly cold, then out of nowhere being hit with an intense internal heat, only to go back to feeling Show Full Answer

Yes, chills can definitely be a common experience with RA! Many people with RA report feeling cold, sometimes alternating between feeling freezing and then suddenly overheated.

One myRAteam member described it well: feeling mostly cold, then out of nowhere being hit with an intense internal heat, only to go back to feeling cold again shortly after. There are a few reasons why this might happen:

- Inflammation affecting the brain — RA inflammation may interfere with the brain's ability to regulate body temperature
- Flare-ups — chills and feeling cold can be a sign that a flare is coming or is already happening
- Low-grade fever — up to one-third of people with RA experience low-grade fevers, which can cause chills
- Vitamin D deficiency — low vitamin D levels, which are more common in RA, can increase sensitivity to cold and pain Some things that may help manage the cold sensations include:

- Staying warm with blankets, heating pads, or a rice bag warmed in the microwave
- Using an electric blanket
- Seat warmers in the car
- Getting vitamin D levels checked and supplementing if needed
- Making sure RA is well-managed with your current treatment plan

It's always worth mentioning chills or temperature changes to your rheumatologist, especially if they feel new or are getting worse.

May 8
A myRAteam Member

Thank you. I am not feeling the heat just the chills.

May 9
A myRAteam Member

Yes, I suffer with both. Since I have personal summers, I contributed it to menopause. I've always been cold natured, my hands and feet feel like blocks of ice any time. I wrap up with a throw, get very warm then start the cold cycle all over again. Not fun at all.

May 9
A myRAteam Member

Yes that is so. I get chills and then I over heat. It’s awful

May 9

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Anyone else with chills and sweats?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Wisconsin Dells, WI
May 11

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