Anxiety can influence body temperature, leading to a sensation of being hot or a slight elevation in core body temperature. This physiological response is not a “true” fever caused by infection but a complex reaction within the body. Understanding this connection involves recognizing how the body’s stress response manifests physically.
How Anxiety Activates the Body
Anxiety triggers the body’s stress response, known as the “fight or flight” mechanism. This innate survival system prepares the body to confront or escape perceived danger. The sympathetic nervous system initiates this response, leading to a cascade of physiological changes.
Stress hormones, such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol, are rapidly released into the bloodstream. These hormones prepare the body for immediate action, increasing heart rate, elevating blood pressure, and tensing muscles. These changes contribute to a state of heightened alertness and readiness.
The Mechanics of Anxiety-Related Temperature Changes
The body’s stress response can lead to elevated temperature. An increased metabolic rate, driven by stress hormones, generates more heat as the body rapidly converts energy reserves into “fuel.” Muscle tension, a common physical symptom of anxiety, also contributes to heat production.
Changes in blood flow further influence temperature regulation. Vasoconstriction, the narrowing of blood vessels, especially in the skin, can reduce heat loss from the body’s surface, effectively trapping heat in the core. This phenomenon is described as “psychogenic fever” or “stress-induced hyperthermia,” rooted in psychological factors rather than pathogens. While extreme cases can reach high temperatures, anxiety more commonly leads to a low-grade elevation, often between 99°F and 100°F (37°C and 38°C).
Differentiating Anxiety’s Impact from Illness
Distinguishing anxiety-induced temperature changes from a fever caused by infection involves observing accompanying symptoms and patterns. Anxiety-related temperature elevations are low-grade and fluctuate with anxiety levels. Individuals might feel hot without a significant rise on a thermometer, or experience sudden hot flashes, sometimes followed by cold chills. These sensations are accompanied by other anxiety symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, or restlessness.
Unlike fevers from illness, anxiety-induced temperature changes do not respond to over-the-counter fever reducers. If you experience these sensations, self-management strategies include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, and cooling down by adjusting clothing or seeking a cooler environment. Staying hydrated can also help manage body temperature during anxious episodes.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
It is important to seek medical advice for any persistent or high fever, particularly if it exceeds typical anxiety-related elevations or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These symptoms might include severe pain, a rash, difficulty breathing, or symptoms that worsen over time. A healthcare provider can conduct tests to rule out underlying infections or other medical conditions.
You should also consult a healthcare professional if anxiety symptoms are severe, persistent, or significantly interfere with your daily life, even if temperature elevation is mild. This includes situations where anxiety impacts work, relationships, or overall well-being. Addressing the root cause of anxiety is the most effective approach to managing associated physical symptoms, including temperature fluctuations.