Why Do We Shiver: When we shiver due to cold, it feels as if small drums are being played in the body, but actually when the temperature of our body starts falling, our brain sends a signal due to which our muscles start contracting and expanding rapidly. This process is called shivering. Let us tell you today the whole science behind this.
Why Do We Shiver
- We often shiver when we feel cold during the winter season.
- This happens when the body tries to escape from the cold.
- Many changes occur when the body temperature drops.
Why Do We Shiver:Have you ever noticed why our body starts shivering when we feel cold? This is a process that we all go through during the winter season, but do you know how interesting the science behind it is (Shivering Science)? Actually, when we are in a cold environment or are sick, our body struggles to maintain its internal temperature. Our body works best at a fixed temperature and when this temperature starts to decrease, the body adopts many ways to increase it. One of these ways is shivering. Let’s know about it in detail.
Why does tremor occur?
Shivering is actually an automatic response of our body. When our body feels cold, the brain sends a message that causes the muscles to contract and expand rapidly. This rapid contraction and expansion is felt as shivering.
You must know that the body works at a certain temperature. This temperature is around 37 degrees Celsius or 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Whether it is hot or cold outside, our body tries its best to maintain this temperature, but when our body temperature goes above this normal level, we feel fever. Fever means that our body is fighting some disease.
How is heat produced by shivering?
- Muscle activity: When our muscles contract and expand rapidly, it is like a physical activity , hence energy is used during this which generates heat in the body. This heat helps in increasing our body temperature.
- Blood flow: Blood flow also increases during shivering. When blood flows faster to different parts of our body, it helps keep the core of the body warm.
- Use of energy: Our body uses more energy during shivering. This energy is obtained by burning the fat present in our body.
body’s defense mechanism
Shivering can also be seen as a defense mechanism. It is a natural way to protect our body from cold. When we are in a cold environment, shivering helps keep our body warm and prevents hypothermia. Hypothermia is a situation in which the body temperature drops very low and in many cases it can be fatal.
When is it a matter of worry?
Shivering is a normal process, but in some cases it can also be a sign of a serious illness. If you are shivering continuously and along with this you are also feeling fever, chills or any other symptoms, then in such a case you need to contact a doctor immediately.
(Disclaimer: The information given here is based on general information. Before adopting it, definitely take medical advice. THE MONK does not confirm this.)
