If you are wondering whether alcohol can cause fever and chills, the short answer is yes. Unchecked consumption can interfere with how the body functions, indirectly triggering uncomfortable symptoms. Fever and chills may also point to serious issues like dehydration, intolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Understanding the relationship between alcohol consumption and the resultant symptoms, as well as what to do in multiple cases, is crucial for safe consumption and healthier living.
At Nirvana Recovery, we are committed to empowering individuals and family members to address alcohol-related challenges and make informed decisions. This is visible from our treatment programs and comprehensive resources with expert insights. To help you or your loved ones drink responsibly and stay healthy, let’s help you understand how alcohol affects the body, causes different symptoms, and how best to prevent or manage them.
Can Alcohol Consumption Cause Fever and Chills?
Although indirectly, alcohol can cause fever and chills if consumed excessively or despite underlying issues and sensitivities. In such cases, these and many other symptoms signal alcohol-induced physiological disruptions. Discover how the relationship between alcohol, body temperature, and the immune system can lead to fever and chills below.
How Alcohol Affects Body Temperature
Alcohol can affect the body’s heat regulation (or internal temperature control) system through the following:
Peripheral vasodilation: It may trigger the widening of blood vessels nearer to the skin. While individuals may experience a false feeling of warmth, the core body temperature drops. As a result, chills and shivers may occur.
Limited heat conservation: By disrupting the hypothalamus, alcohol renders the body less effective in maintaining stable temperatures. This is heavily felt in cold environments.
Fluctuating body temperatures: You may rapidly alternate from feeling warm to feeling extremely cold after consuming alcohol. This is often caused by alcohol-induced flushes and heat loss, respectively.
Immune System Reactions to Alcohol
Besides temperature regulation, chronic or excessive alcohol consumption can affect how the body fights off external interferences. This may lead to:
Alcohol-induced inflammation: Excessive or chronic consumption can irritate the stomach lining, liver, or gut. The body’s immune response may involve fever, fatigue, chills, and body aches.
Reduced immunity: Heavy or frequent drinking can lower the body’s ability to fight infections like colds and flu. This may explain why you experience fever, chills, and other symptoms every time you drink.
Build-up of toxins: Toxins easily accumulate when the responsible body organs fail to break down alcohol efficiently. This may trigger systemic reactions mimicking signs of illness or infection.
From the discussion above, it is clear that alcohol can trigger fever and chills by either disrupting temperature regulation or activating the body’s immune responses.
Common Causes of Fever and Chills After Drinking Alcohol
Experiencing fever and chills after consuming alcohol may not be random or coincidental. What really causes these symptoms? Let’s find out below.
Alcohol Intolerance and Allergic Reactions
Drinking alcohol may trigger immediate immune responses in some people due to:
Alcohol intolerance: This is a genetic condition that prevents the body (or aldehyde dehydrogenases) from breaking down alcohol efficiently.
Allergic reactions: Ingredients like sulfites, histamines, grains, and gluten may cause allergic reactions.
The reactions above often occur when the body perceives alcohol (or its ingredients) as a threat. Common symptoms include fever, chills, flushing/facial redness, and a congested nose. Individuals may also experience nausea, hives, abdominal pain, or skin rashes.
Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance
Have you noticed that you pee more when or after drinking? This is because, as a diuretic, alcohol makes the body lose fluids and essential minerals. Alcohol- related dehydration can cause fever and chills through:
Temperature dysregulation: Fluid loss can reduce the volume and circulation of blood, affecting thermal regulation.
Electrolyte imbalance: Heavy consumption may eat into magnesium, potassium, or sodium levels. This may trigger muscle cramps, chills, fatigue/mental fog, shaking, and an elevated heart rate.
As you drink, always remember that your dehydration or electrolyte imbalance risks tremendously increase when you:
Drink on an empty stomach or without taking water
Vomit or diarrhea
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
In some instances, suddenly quitting (or heavily cutting down) alcohol can trigger withdrawals within hours. Common symptoms witnessed during alcohol withdrawal include chills, fever, irritability, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. The latter encompasses body aches, sweating, and a runny nose.
Extreme cases may progress to alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), signified by seizures and delirium tremens (DTs). DTs often cause hallucinations and elevated fevers. Seek immediate help for AWS as it can be life-threatening.
Identifying Symptoms Related to Alcohol-Induced Fever and Chills
Fever and chills following alcohol consumption rarely occur alone. Understanding the accompanying symptoms can help you assess the seriousness of your condition and whether you need medical intervention. Discover which ones qualify as mild or severe below.
Mild Symptoms to Monitor
In most cases, mild symptoms resolve within 24-48 hours, especially after proper rest and hydration. These include:
Low-grade fever
Fatigue/drowsiness
Irregular chills (brief periods of shivering)
Mental fog/ a slight headache
A dry mouth/thirst
These are caused by mere alcohol irritation. Monitor them, take more fluids, and avoid further alcohol until they vanish or you feel better again.
Severe Symptoms Needing Immediate Attention
Alcohol impacts individuals differently. For some, it may result in alcohol poisoning, severe allergies, or even withdrawal syndrome. These severe issues are often signified by:
An extremely high fever
Uncontrollable body tremors/ shivering
Rapid/irregular heartbeat
Severe vomiting or nausea
Hallucinations, agitation, and confusion
Chest tightness/ breathing difficulty
Seek immediate medical intervention if you notice any of the signs above. They often act as distress signals, possibly due to toxic buildup, severe dehydration, or immune system overreaction.
Immediate Remedies for Fever and Chills After Drinking Alcohol
You can easily manage mild or non-threatening alcohol-induced fever and chills at home. All it takes to feel better or reduce the risk of complications is enough rest, rehydration, and effective symptom management. Discover more below.
Hydration and Electrolyte Replacement
Restoring any fluids or electrolytes you may have lost to alcohol should be your number one priority. You should:
Take plenty of water: Frequently drink small sips of water, especially if you feel nauseous. Target 1-2 liters in the next few hours.
Consider electrolyte-rich drinks: To correct any ensuing electrolyte imbalance, take coconut water, oral rehydration salts, or a homemade electrolyte mix. You can mix water, salt, lemon juice, and sugar to make your electrolyte mix.
As you explore these strategies, avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks like coffee or energy drinks. Replenishing vital minerals and fluids will help your body regulate its temperature and reduce chills.
Rest and Temperature Management
Resting and managing the surrounding temperature can also help you recover from alcohol-induced fever or chills. Use the strategies below to relax and manage your body temperature.
To rest adequately:
Find a quiet, dark room and lie down: This reduces overstimulation and supports your overall recovery efforts.
Consider sleep aids: Natural sleep aids like chamomile tea promote natural recovery. They can also help the liver process toxins.
For safe, effective temperature management, tailor your strategies based on the symptom you are experiencing currently. For chills:
Dress/ cover-up lightly: Use layered clothing or a light blanket.
Avoid sudden heat: Unexpected heat, like a hot bath, may trigger shock or dizziness.
To address fever:
Find a cool, well-ventilated room.
Gently press your forehead or the back of your neck using a damp cloth.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications can relieve discomfort. However, some should not be used after drinking alcohol. Here are a few standard options:
Acetaminophen (Paracetamol): While paracetamol can help reduce fever and aches, it should be used cautiously. This pain reliever may strain the liver if overused after drinking.
Ibuprofen (Advil): You can take ibuprofen for chills, inflammation, and body pain. While it is safer for the liver and stomach than acetaminophen, do not take it on an empty stomach.
You should avoid taking painkillers immediately after drinking alcohol. Follow what the package says or consult the pharmacist for proper guidelines. If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 24 hours, seek immediate medical attention.
When to Seek Medical Help
You can easily treat or even wish away mild, occasional fever and chills. However, severe cases often require prompt medical attention to rule out life-threatening complications. Below are the symptoms to watch out for and what happens during medical evaluation:
Recognizing Signs of Serious Conditions
You need prompt medical assistance for the following:
A persistently high fever: Body temperature that remains excessively high for 24 hours or more may signal an infection, a stressed liver, or alcohol poisoning.
Symptoms of severe dehydration: These include a parched mouth, minimal/dark-colored urine, rapid heart rate, or lightheadedness.
Overwhelming confusion/disorientation: You may be staring at acute alcohol toxicity, electrolyte imbalance, or liver failure.
Chest pain/breathing difficulty: Chest pains or difficulty breathing after a heavy drinking episode may signal a cardiovascular problem or severe allergic reaction.
Individuals with pre-existing conditions like diabetes and liver disease should seek help sooner, as their symptoms often worsen faster.
What to Expect From Medical Evaluation
To identify the underlying issue, treatment professionals must first obtain a diagnosis. They may conduct physical examinations to check for:
Jaundice
Fever
Dehydration
Signs of kidney or liver stress
They can also perform the following diagnostic tests:
Urinalysis: This involves examining your urine samples to evaluate hydration and overall kidney function.
Blood panels: They can analyze your blood to assess liver function and test for possible infections or alcohol toxicity.
Imaging (ultrasound/CT): CT/Ultrasound scans identify suspected organ damage.
Your diagnosis informs what happens next. For clear or mild cases, your healthcare provider may administer the following:
Intravenous fluids: IV fluids help with rehydration and electrolyte balance.
Antipyretics: Options like acetaminophen can minimize fever.
If your condition is unclear or severe, you may be hospitalized for further testing and observation. Be ready to share as much information as possible with the treatment team for better treatment and recovery outcomes.
How to Prevent Fever and Chills After Alcohol Consumption
You don’t have to struggle with fever, chills, and other uncomfortable symptoms every time you drink. All you need are smart, preventive strategies premised on hydration, moderation, and self-awareness. Here are some:
Drinking Alcohol Responsibly
Post-drinking complications mainly arise from excessive or careless alcohol consumption. To drink responsibly:
Stick to recommended limits: The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that upon attaining the legal age, adults should not drink alcohol or do so moderately if they choose to consume. Recommended limits include a daily maximum of 2 standard drinks for men or one standard drink for women.
Do not binge drink: Large amounts of alcohol within a short duration can dehydrate the body or overwhelm your liver.
Know your limits: Understand your tolerance levels, i.e., how different amounts and types of alcohol affect you. Do not exceed your limits.
Avoid mixing drinks: Taking spirits, wines, and beers in one sitting may increase toxicity or the risk of adverse reactions.
Maintaining Proper Hydration and Nutrition
Staying hydrated and getting proper nourishment can lower your chances of experiencing fever or chills after alcohol consumption. To stay hydrated:
Have a full glass of water between each alcoholic beverage.
Drink plenty of water/fluids before, during, and after drinking alcohol.
If you are sweating or vomiting, take electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water.
You should also eat before drinking. For the best outcomes, go for a balanced meal with the following:
Healthy fats
Complex carbohydrates
Lean proteins
You can also snack throughout the night to slow alcohol absorption and stabilize blood sugar.
Avoiding Alcohol if Sensitive or Allergic
If you react with certain types of alcohol due to biological intolerance or their ingredients, it may be time to:
Switch types, e.g., clear spirits like vodka
Keep a symptom journal to track reactions actively
Consult a doctor or allergist for specialized testing
Below are the typical ingredients that trigger adverse reactions and where they are found:
Sulfites- Found in wine
Gluten- Found in some beers
Additives- Mostly found in cheap spirits
Histamines- Mostly present in beer and red wine
Long-Term Health Risks of Frequent Alcohol-Induced Fever and Chills
Recurrent episodes of alcohol-induced symptoms should be addressed promptly. If left unresolved (or resolved late), they may put chronic stress on the immune system or lead to severe health conditions. Discover more below:
Chronic Immune System Stress
Regular alcohol-triggered immune responses can weaken the body’s immunity over time. You may experience the following:
Chronic inflammation: Prolonged inflammation can lead to muscle soreness, fatigue, and increased vulnerability to infections.
Autoimmune-like symptoms: These are commonly witnessed when the body begins overreacting to harmless stimuli following frequent triggers.
Gut microbiome disruption: Alcohol-induced gastrointestinal issues can also impair your immunity, making you more vulnerable to systemic problems.
Increased Risk of Serious Health Conditions
Frequent post-drinking discomfort can escalate into:
Organ stress/failure: Kidneys may suffer dehydration or toxin overload. Conversely, the liver may suffer chronic inflammation and scarring, respectively leading to hepatitis and cirrhosis.
Cardiovascular problems: Alcohol and alcohol-related symptoms may dangerously elevate your blood pressure, weakening the heart muscles.
Neurological concerns: Your cognition, memory, and nerve health may be negatively affected in the long run.
Evaluate your drinking habits and consult a treatment professional if you experience more than one or two episodes of intense fever and chills monthly.
Find Comfort and Wellness with Nirvana
Nirvana Recovery is here to help if you are tired of frequent post-drinking chills, fever, or discomfort. Our wellness resources, expert guidance, and recovery plans provide clarity and support, helping you achieve lasting changes. Whether you seek to manage short-term symptoms or realize mindful, responsible alcohol use, we have everything you need.
All our programs are tailored to every individual’s needs, goals, and available support system for better outcomes. Your journey to a better future starts today. Contact us for personalized insights and support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can alcohol cause fever and chills the next day?
Yes. Alcohol can disrupt the body’s fluid/electrolyte balance, immune system, and thermoregulation, causing next-day fever and chills. Such symptoms commonly occur after heavy drinking episodes or inadequate rest.
Are chills after alcohol consumption dangerous?
Mild occasional chills are not usually dangerous. They may clear on their own or through home-based remedies. However, persistent or severe chills are alarming. Long or persistent episodes may signal an allergic reaction, heightened alcohol intolerance, systemic inflammation, or alcohol withdrawal.
How do I know if my fever after alcohol is dangerous?
An extra high fever that persists for 24 hours or more should concern you. Your body might be fighting an infection, organ stress, or alcohol poisoning if you also have severe chills, confusion, nausea, and breathing issues.
Should I see a doctor if fever and chills occur every time I drink?
Yes. Frequent fever or chills after every drinking episode may suggest a serious issue. Your physician or healthcare provider can run tests to identify possible problems and offer safe alternatives.
How Can Nirvana Recovery Help Me Manage Alcohol-Related Health Symptoms?
We offer personalized wellness support services at Nirvana Recovery. We can help you understand your body’s reaction to alcohol and build long-term, healthier living strategies. We also have licensed professionals who address alcohol-related issues or complications through tailored treatment and recovery programs.
Fever and Chills After Drinking Alcohol: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Published On August 24, 2025
Table of Contents
If you are wondering whether alcohol can cause fever and chills, the short answer is yes. Unchecked consumption can interfere with how the body functions, indirectly triggering uncomfortable symptoms. Fever and chills may also point to serious issues like dehydration, intolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Understanding the relationship between alcohol consumption and the resultant symptoms, as well as what to do in multiple cases, is crucial for safe consumption and healthier living.
At Nirvana Recovery, we are committed to empowering individuals and family members to address alcohol-related challenges and make informed decisions. This is visible from our treatment programs and comprehensive resources with expert insights. To help you or your loved ones drink responsibly and stay healthy, let’s help you understand how alcohol affects the body, causes different symptoms, and how best to prevent or manage them.
Can Alcohol Consumption Cause Fever and Chills?
Although indirectly, alcohol can cause fever and chills if consumed excessively or despite underlying issues and sensitivities. In such cases, these and many other symptoms signal alcohol-induced physiological disruptions. Discover how the relationship between alcohol, body temperature, and the immune system can lead to fever and chills below.
How Alcohol Affects Body Temperature
Alcohol can affect the body’s heat regulation (or internal temperature control) system through the following:
Immune System Reactions to Alcohol
Besides temperature regulation, chronic or excessive alcohol consumption can affect how the body fights off external interferences. This may lead to:
From the discussion above, it is clear that alcohol can trigger fever and chills by either disrupting temperature regulation or activating the body’s immune responses.
Common Causes of Fever and Chills After Drinking Alcohol
Experiencing fever and chills after consuming alcohol may not be random or coincidental. What really causes these symptoms? Let’s find out below.
Alcohol Intolerance and Allergic Reactions
Drinking alcohol may trigger immediate immune responses in some people due to:
The reactions above often occur when the body perceives alcohol (or its ingredients) as a threat. Common symptoms include fever, chills, flushing/facial redness, and a congested nose. Individuals may also experience nausea, hives, abdominal pain, or skin rashes.
Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance
Have you noticed that you pee more when or after drinking? This is because, as a diuretic, alcohol makes the body lose fluids and essential minerals. Alcohol- related dehydration can cause fever and chills through:
As you drink, always remember that your dehydration or electrolyte imbalance risks tremendously increase when you:
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
In some instances, suddenly quitting (or heavily cutting down) alcohol can trigger withdrawals within hours. Common symptoms witnessed during alcohol withdrawal include chills, fever, irritability, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. The latter encompasses body aches, sweating, and a runny nose.
Extreme cases may progress to alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), signified by seizures and delirium tremens (DTs). DTs often cause hallucinations and elevated fevers. Seek immediate help for AWS as it can be life-threatening.
Identifying Symptoms Related to Alcohol-Induced Fever and Chills
Fever and chills following alcohol consumption rarely occur alone. Understanding the accompanying symptoms can help you assess the seriousness of your condition and whether you need medical intervention. Discover which ones qualify as mild or severe below.
Mild Symptoms to Monitor
In most cases, mild symptoms resolve within 24-48 hours, especially after proper rest and hydration. These include:
These are caused by mere alcohol irritation. Monitor them, take more fluids, and avoid further alcohol until they vanish or you feel better again.
Severe Symptoms Needing Immediate Attention
Alcohol impacts individuals differently. For some, it may result in alcohol poisoning, severe allergies, or even withdrawal syndrome. These severe issues are often signified by:
Seek immediate medical intervention if you notice any of the signs above. They often act as distress signals, possibly due to toxic buildup, severe dehydration, or immune system overreaction.
Immediate Remedies for Fever and Chills After Drinking Alcohol
You can easily manage mild or non-threatening alcohol-induced fever and chills at home. All it takes to feel better or reduce the risk of complications is enough rest, rehydration, and effective symptom management. Discover more below.
Hydration and Electrolyte Replacement
Restoring any fluids or electrolytes you may have lost to alcohol should be your number one priority. You should:
As you explore these strategies, avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks like coffee or energy drinks. Replenishing vital minerals and fluids will help your body regulate its temperature and reduce chills.
Rest and Temperature Management
Resting and managing the surrounding temperature can also help you recover from alcohol-induced fever or chills. Use the strategies below to relax and manage your body temperature.
To rest adequately:
For safe, effective temperature management, tailor your strategies based on the symptom you are experiencing currently. For chills:
To address fever:
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications can relieve discomfort. However, some should not be used after drinking alcohol. Here are a few standard options:
You should avoid taking painkillers immediately after drinking alcohol. Follow what the package says or consult the pharmacist for proper guidelines. If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 24 hours, seek immediate medical attention.
When to Seek Medical Help
You can easily treat or even wish away mild, occasional fever and chills. However, severe cases often require prompt medical attention to rule out life-threatening complications. Below are the symptoms to watch out for and what happens during medical evaluation:
Recognizing Signs of Serious Conditions
You need prompt medical assistance for the following:
Individuals with pre-existing conditions like diabetes and liver disease should seek help sooner, as their symptoms often worsen faster.
What to Expect From Medical Evaluation
To identify the underlying issue, treatment professionals must first obtain a diagnosis. They may conduct physical examinations to check for:
They can also perform the following diagnostic tests:
Your diagnosis informs what happens next. For clear or mild cases, your healthcare provider may administer the following:
If your condition is unclear or severe, you may be hospitalized for further testing and observation. Be ready to share as much information as possible with the treatment team for better treatment and recovery outcomes.
How to Prevent Fever and Chills After Alcohol Consumption
You don’t have to struggle with fever, chills, and other uncomfortable symptoms every time you drink. All you need are smart, preventive strategies premised on hydration, moderation, and self-awareness. Here are some:
Drinking Alcohol Responsibly
Post-drinking complications mainly arise from excessive or careless alcohol consumption. To drink responsibly:
Maintaining Proper Hydration and Nutrition
Staying hydrated and getting proper nourishment can lower your chances of experiencing fever or chills after alcohol consumption. To stay hydrated:
You should also eat before drinking. For the best outcomes, go for a balanced meal with the following:
You can also snack throughout the night to slow alcohol absorption and stabilize blood sugar.
Avoiding Alcohol if Sensitive or Allergic
If you react with certain types of alcohol due to biological intolerance or their ingredients, it may be time to:
Below are the typical ingredients that trigger adverse reactions and where they are found:
Long-Term Health Risks of Frequent Alcohol-Induced Fever and Chills
Recurrent episodes of alcohol-induced symptoms should be addressed promptly. If left unresolved (or resolved late), they may put chronic stress on the immune system or lead to severe health conditions. Discover more below:
Chronic Immune System Stress
Regular alcohol-triggered immune responses can weaken the body’s immunity over time. You may experience the following:
Increased Risk of Serious Health Conditions
Frequent post-drinking discomfort can escalate into:
Evaluate your drinking habits and consult a treatment professional if you experience more than one or two episodes of intense fever and chills monthly.
Find Comfort and Wellness with Nirvana
Nirvana Recovery is here to help if you are tired of frequent post-drinking chills, fever, or discomfort. Our wellness resources, expert guidance, and recovery plans provide clarity and support, helping you achieve lasting changes. Whether you seek to manage short-term symptoms or realize mindful, responsible alcohol use, we have everything you need.
All our programs are tailored to every individual’s needs, goals, and available support system for better outcomes. Your journey to a better future starts today. Contact us for personalized insights and support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Alcohol can disrupt the body’s fluid/electrolyte balance, immune system, and thermoregulation, causing next-day fever and chills. Such symptoms commonly occur after heavy drinking episodes or inadequate rest.
Mild occasional chills are not usually dangerous. They may clear on their own or through home-based remedies. However, persistent or severe chills are alarming. Long or persistent episodes may signal an allergic reaction, heightened alcohol intolerance, systemic inflammation, or alcohol withdrawal.
An extra high fever that persists for 24 hours or more should concern you. Your body might be fighting an infection, organ stress, or alcohol poisoning if you also have severe chills, confusion, nausea, and breathing issues.
Yes. Frequent fever or chills after every drinking episode may suggest a serious issue. Your physician or healthcare provider can run tests to identify possible problems and offer safe alternatives.
We offer personalized wellness support services at Nirvana Recovery. We can help you understand your body’s reaction to alcohol and build long-term, healthier living strategies. We also have licensed professionals who address alcohol-related issues or complications through tailored treatment and recovery programs.