low body temp and covid

3 min read 15-03-2025

Meta Description: Explore the connection between low body temperature (hypothermia) and COVID-19. Learn about potential causes, symptoms, risks, and when to seek medical attention. Discover how COVID-19 can affect your body's temperature regulation and what to do if you experience low body temperature alongside COVID-19 symptoms. This comprehensive guide helps you understand this often-overlooked aspect of the virus. (158 characters)

Understanding the Relationship Between Low Body Temperature and COVID-19

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is primarily known for its respiratory symptoms. However, the virus can impact various bodily systems, sometimes leading to unexpected complications. One such complication can be a drop in body temperature, medically known as hypothermia. While fever is a common symptom of COVID-19, low body temperature is less frequently discussed but still warrants attention.

Can COVID-19 Cause Low Body Temperature?

While fever is a more common symptom, hypothermia can occur in some COVID-19 patients, particularly those with severe illness. This isn't a direct effect of the virus itself in most cases, but rather a consequence of the body's overall response to the infection. Several factors contribute to this:

Severe Illness: Severe COVID-19 can lead to sepsis (a life-threatening bloodstream infection), which can cause a drop in body temperature. This is because sepsis affects the body’s ability to regulate its temperature effectively.
Immune System Response: The body's immune response to the virus, involving inflammation and cytokine storms (overreactions of the immune system), can disrupt temperature regulation.
Medications: Some medications used to treat COVID-19 or its complications might contribute to lower-than-normal body temperature.
Underlying Conditions: People with pre-existing conditions that compromise their immune system or thermoregulation (ability to maintain body temperature) are more vulnerable to experiencing low body temperatures when infected.

Symptoms of Low Body Temperature Alongside COVID-19

Recognizing hypothermia alongside other COVID-19 symptoms is crucial. Symptoms of low body temperature can include:

Shivering (initially)
Slowed breathing and heart rate
Confusion or disorientation
Slurred speech
Loss of coordination
Drowsiness or lethargy
Pale or bluish skin

It's essential to remember that these symptoms can overlap with other COVID-19 symptoms, making it even more critical to seek medical attention if you experience a combination of these signs.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience a low body temperature along with other COVID-19 symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or persistent confusion, seek immediate medical attention. Hypothermia can be life-threatening, especially when combined with a serious illness like COVID-19. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to prevent further complications.

Differentiating Low Body Temperature from Other COVID-19 Symptoms

It’s important to distinguish hypothermia from other COVID-19 symptoms that might initially seem similar, like chills. Chills are often associated with fever and are the body's attempt to raise its temperature. Hypothermia, on the other hand, is a drop in core body temperature below 95°F (35°C).

Preventing Hypothermia During COVID-19 Recovery

While you can't directly prevent hypothermia caused by COVID-19, you can take steps to support your body's temperature regulation during recovery:

Stay warm: Dress in layers and stay in a warm environment.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps maintain your body's temperature.
Proper nutrition: Eating a balanced diet provides your body with the energy it needs to recover.
Rest: Adequate rest allows your body to focus on healing.

Conclusion

While fever is a hallmark of COVID-19, low body temperature (hypothermia) is a less common but potentially serious complication. Understanding the potential causes, symptoms, and risks associated with hypothermia in the context of COVID-19 is critical for timely medical intervention. If you experience a drop in body temperature along with other COVID-19 symptoms, especially if they're severe, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Don’t hesitate to seek help; early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome. Remember to prioritize rest, hydration, and warmth during recovery.