Why do we shiver when we are afraid?!
Question:
Why do we shiver when we are afraid?
or worried or even cold.
Answers:
Different reasons!
When we are afraid, our bodies put a lot of adrenalin (epinephrine) into the bloodstream from the adrenal glands. This causes the classic 'fight or flight' mechanism to go into overdrive. All of your blood suddenly goes to the brain and muscles to get ready for whatever comes- a fight or a fast get-away. Anyways, the skin is deprived somewhat- causing cold and clammy feelings, and goosebumps. Similar effects can be caused by any strong stress- even worry.
The cold causes goosebumps by a mechanism of the skin trying to preserve heat- by fluffing out our hairs- like a birds feathers. This has limited effectiveness though, as our hairs are relatively sparse.