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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

A feeling of being cold while in a bad flare, is this to be expected?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭

Last night in bed I absolutely could not get warm. My teeth were even chattering. I got up to use the restroom and I was literally shaking with cold. It is not cold here! In the high 80's yesterday. Our air conditioning and ceiling fan were on but that's our normal routine. I just want to know if this is from the Level 8 Flare??

6 days ago (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members connected over the surprising and disorienting symptom of feeling intensely cold during an RA flare, even in hot weather, with many... Read more

Members connected over the surprising and disorienting symptom of feeling intensely cold during an RA flare, even in hot weather, with many sharing that their internal thermostat seems completely off. Several members described similar experiences, including shaking with chills, wrapping up in fleece blankets in summer, and even stepping outside to warm up, with some noting that a low-grade fever during a flare could explain the shivering. A recurring theme was the importance of taking your temperature during a flare, staying hydrated, and finding comfort in knowing others share the same unexpected symptoms.

A myRAteam Member

Cindi when I'm in a flare I will get really cold. Sometimes low grade fever which adds to coldness.

5 days ago
A myRAteam Member

Oh WOW same thing is happening to me! In the 29 years of having RA this has never happened. It’s been hot in the 90s here in NC our AC & ceiling fans have always been set to the same temperature and I’m in sweats and socks and freezing. So crazy to have to go outside to warm up would never have imagined this one.

6 days ago
myRAteam

Feeling cold chills and shaking during an RA flare is something many people with RA experience. It can feel really unsettling, but it's often tied to the way RA affects the body during active inflammation.

A myRAteam member described it well: alternating between feeling freezing cold and then suddenly being hit with Show Full Answer

Feeling cold chills and shaking during an RA flare is something many people with RA experience. It can feel really unsettling, but it's often tied to the way RA affects the body during active inflammation.

A myRAteam member described it well: alternating between feeling freezing cold and then suddenly being hit with intense internal heat — only to swing back to feeling cold again. Here's what's likely going on during a flare:

- Inflammation triggers the immune system, which can cause flu-like symptoms including chills, shaking, and low-grade fever
- Low-grade fever (between 99–101°F) is common during flares and can make you feel alternately hot and cold
- Fatigue and general unwellness often accompany these temperature fluctuations

It can genuinely feel like having the flu — without actually having it. Some things that may help during a flare:

- Stay warm with blankets or a heating pad
- Rest as much as your body needs
- Track your symptoms so you know what's typical for your flares vs. what's new or unusual
- Contact your rheumatologist if the chills or fever feel more intense than usual or last longer than expected

If you're experiencing high fevers (above 101°F) or symptoms that feel out of the ordinary for you, it's worth reaching out to your doctor sooner rather than later.

6 days ago
A myRAteam Member

Could you possibly have had a fever? I always shiver when I feverish

2 days ago
A myRAteam Member

I did not think to take my temperature but I sure will in the future! Thanks for that idea Carol! I'll get the hang of this .... eventually.... maybe! Lol

5 days ago

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