Recently I’ve noticed a few things changing.I’m a twenty year old male. 275 lb., 5′10″.
I’ve been experiencing chills with no fever. They are a strange sensation that feels like a void in the area where my head meets my neck. It may not be a chill, but it certainly feels like them - I generally don’t shake, although I occasionally twitch after initiating the feeling.
Additionally I’ve been suffering from constipation. I can use the restroom, but I never get the feeling that I’m finished anymore.
My body temperature is lower, sitting at an average of 97.5 degrees.
If there’s anything general that can be thrown out here I’d appreciate, these chill sensations are beginning to get annoying.
Posted by: Maria/MD Health Forum.com Team
Chills usually occur with sweating and high body temperature, this means that your body is fighting an infection. However, some people may experience frequent bouts of chills, even if they do not have viral or bacterial infection.
Chills that are not related to infectious diseases may occur when one is exposed to a cold environment. Thyroid problems, allergic reaction, anemia, hypoglycemia, eating disorders, anxiety and taking certain medications are also known to cause chills without fever. Some strange sensations could also indicate conditions that affect the nerves. Neck tingling, for example, may occur in nerve compression and neck injury.
Constipation is a rather common complaint. There are many factors that can affect bowel movement. One can be constipated because of inadequate fluid and fiber intake, lack of exercise, poor bowel habits, stress, or conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, thyroid problems or injuries to the spinal cord.
I think you should consult your doctor to find out the underlying problem that has been triggering your symptoms. It would be helpful if you have a record of your body temperature readings. Expect your doctor to ask your routine questions about your symptoms, your past illnesses, the medications you’re currently taking, your diet and bowel habits.
After reviewing your health questionnaire and body temperature diary, physical examination will be done. This includes assessing your heart sounds, checking your thyroid for nodules or enlargement, inspecting the skin and nails for signs of infection and poor circulation. In patients with constipation, rectal exam may be done to check for problems. To rule out nerve conditions, neurological assessment may also be carried out.
The diagnostic tests would depend on the suspected disorder. Complete blood count, blood glucose levels, thyroid function test and urinalysis are among the possible tests that will help your doctor determine the cause of chills. If the doctor suspects compression of the nerves in the neck, imaging procedures such as X-rays, CT scan or MRI may be requested.
Once the underlying problem is identified, your doctor will tell you how your symptoms can be managed. If your tests would suggest thyroid disorder, for example, your doctor will tell you which treatment option would suit you best.
This blog entry is for your general information only. I recommend that you discuss your symptoms with your own doctor.
References:
http://www.medicinenet.com/pinched_nerve/page3.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/constipation/DS00063
Tags: chills without fever, constipation
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