This is kind of an odd question, but..

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I have noticed before that when I get super stressed, like to the point of nearing a meltdown, or basically really upset about anything, that I actually run a fever. I have no idea what would cause this, but I am sure that it happens.

My friend is actually the one that made me aware of it. One time when I was really upset about something, she gave me a hug and said "Wow you're burning up!" I thought maybe I just happened to be running a fever but after noticing that, I started paying attention to it, (and so did she, cause she thought it was really odd) and I tend to run a low grade temp, like 99.5-101, when really stressed or upset. I had kind of forgotten about it but I am feeling stressed and just realized I'm running a fever.

So I guess I'm just wondering if any of you have noticed that in yourselves or anyone else? Any ideas about that?

Btw, I'm rather new here but I've been reading a lot - I think it's my new addiction. This forum is great!

Yes.

I've noticed this too, and not just in Aspies. A friend with panic disorder has the same experience.

What I wonder is if the increase in body temperature results from the stress, or perhaps increases sensitivity to stress. Either way the increased body temp. and stress seem to spur forward a runaway positive feedback loop until meltdown occurs.

Also, I've read in a variety of books on AS, autism, and other neuropsychiatric disorders that eating or drinking cold things when stressed (i.e.: warm) helps some people, as can eating warm things when feeling sluggish or slow.

I'd probably write it up as an adrenaline rush. The kicking in of that, what is it? flight/fight mechanism.

Not a fever for me - I went in the opposite direction. My body temp would drop to 96 - I was always so cold and could not get warm.

When I am really stressed, my ears and face and neck burn up..this usually happens at work when things get busy and more than one cashier call for a price check at the same time....It doesnt help that sometimes the store does not have its air conditioning on when its hot outside.That causes me to burn up faster and worse, thus causing me to get even more distressed.

I feel cold - I start visibly shaking and shivering and cannot seem to get warm.

Never noticed this, but I'd not be surprised.

Stress affects the body. It can make you physically ill. So, why not?

Thanks for the great replies everybody! : )

Yes, I suppose stress could mess with a person's body in a lot of ways, and everybody is different of course. That's interesting to know that in some people, stress actually causes a drop in temperature. I guess since stress has to do with chemicals it could mess with lots of things, including whatever it is that regulates a person's body temperature with their own unique chemistry.

I'm glad to know I'm not the only one who experiences that - I thought it was really weird!

I'll have to try the drinking cold liquids when I feel like I'm running a fever - that's a good suggestion.

Thanks guys : )