Check out this answer from Consensus:
Chills are a multifaceted phenomenon with various underlying causes, including physiological, psychological, and emotional factors. Understanding the different types of chills and their triggers can provide valuable insights into human health and emotional well-being.
Chills are a common symptom experienced by many individuals, often characterized by a sensation of coldness accompanied by shivering. This article explores the various causes and mechanisms behind chills, drawing on insights from multiple research studies.
Clinical and Physiological Characteristics
Chills can be both a subjective and objective experience, ranging from a mild sensation of cold to intense shivering. They can be triggered by external factors such as exposure to cold or internal factors like bacterial infections. The term “chill” encompasses both the perception of cold and involuntary muscle tremors1.
Psychological Constructs
Chills can also be understood as a psychological phenomenon. Research has identified two main types of chills: “goosetingles” and “coldshivers.” Goosetingles are associated with positive emotions like awe and enjoyment, while coldshivers are linked to negative emotions such as fear and sadness. These different types of chills are influenced by personality traits and emotional states2.
Chills and Common Cold
There is a common belief that exposure to cold can lead to the onset of common cold symptoms. Studies have shown that acute cooling of the feet can indeed trigger cold symptoms in a subset of individuals. However, the exact relationship between cold exposure and respiratory infections remains complex and not fully understood3 8.
Aesthetic Chills
Aesthetic chills are a specific type of chills experienced in response to artistic stimuli such as music, visual arts, and literature. These chills are often linked to peak emotional experiences and can vary widely among individuals. Genetic factors also play a role in the propensity to experience aesthetic chills4 6 9.
Chills and Infections
Chills are commonly associated with infections, particularly those involving the bloodstream. Studies have shown that chills are more frequent in patients with bacterial infections, especially gram-negative bacteria. The presence of chills can indicate higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and endotoxins in the blood5 10.
Emotional Sources of Chills
Music is a powerful elicitor of chills, often evoking strong emotional responses. Research indicates that chills induced by music are more strongly related to perceived sadness than happiness. This suggests a neurochemical link between the emotional impact of music and the experience of chills7.