Why Are My Feet Always Cold?
Medically reviewed by Sarah Richards, DPMMedically reviewed by Sarah Richards, DPMYou are not alone if you find yourself constantly covering up cold feet with socks or a blanket. Experiencing cold feet, mainly when temperatures are low, is not rare.That said, there are a few chronic—but manageable—health conditions that could potentially lead to this uncomfortable symptom.
Fiordaliso / Getty Images' title='An image of a woman's legs in pajama pants and fluffy slippers'>
Fiordaliso / Getty Images
Feet Always Cold: Possible CausesThere are many possible reasons behind having cold feet. Perhaps the most obvious trigger is environmental factors such as the weather, while other causes of cold intolerance may indicate an underlying health condition, such as:1. Poor CirculationPoor blood circulation indicates that blood is not being pumped efficiently throughout the body. This might happen when blood vessels are too constricted (narrowed) or expanded. Poor circulation can lead to cold feet, dehydration, inflammation, and sickle cell disease.2. AnemiaAnemia is a lack of healthy red blood cells. This causes the body to not get adequate oxygen, leading to poor blood circulation. A lack of blood circulation in the lower extremities, particularly the feet, can lead to cold feet symptoms.3. DiabetesWith diabetes, your body isn't able to produce or properly utilize the blood sugar–regulating hormone insulin. Because of this, high blood sugar (glucose) levels can damage the nerves, especially in the feet, legs, arms, and hands. Known as diabetic peripheral neuropathy, this often leads to issues with temperature sensation and could manifest as cold feet.4. HypothyroidismThe thyroid produces essential hormones and helps regulate body temperature. With hypothyroidism, the thyroid is underactive and may not be adequately controlled, resulting in tingling, numbness, and cold sensations in the feet and hands.5. Raynaud's PhenomenonAlso called Raynaud's disease, Raynaud's phenomenon is constricted blood vessels in extremities like the hands and feet. The constriction can reduce blood flow, cause numbness, and lead to skin color changes in the affected areas.6. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)Known as dysesthesia (or abnormal sensation), symptoms of cold legs and feet can occur when you have MS. This is because MS affects the nervous system and temperature regulation.In FemalesResearch shows that cold feet (and hands) may occur more often in people assigned female at birth than those assigned male, particularly younger females with a lower body mass index (BMI). Experts theorize that females usually have a slower metabolism than males, so their bodies may not generate as much heat, leading to cold feet.Studies also show that other symptoms may accompany cold feet within this group. These include headache, insomnia, fatigue, and mental health issues, which could indicate that having cold feet is linked to a variety of conditions. Some researchers suggest that treating cold feet alone may not be enough and requires more comprehensive care.In addition, levels of the female hormone estrogen can fluctuate throughout various stages of the reproductive years. This can trigger the widening and narrowing of blood vessels, which could lead to different temperature sensations, including cold feet.
TakeawayA few risk factors could make it more likely for a person to experience cold feet. Research suggests these are:Chronic health conditions that impact the thyroid, hormones, body fat, or metabolismFrequent sleep disturbancesUsing alcohol or substances regularlyBeing an older adult
Do I Need a Diagnosis?If your feet are cold because of the temperature or weather conditions in your environment, it may not merit a trip to a healthcare provider's office. When the temperature drops, blood flow naturally decreases in your feet and increases near your torso to maintain warmth in the largest parts of your body.But if you're keeping track of the time you experience cold feet and there seems to be a consistent pattern, make an appointment to see a healthcare provider. Your provider may conclude that you have cold intolerance, a general term for having an abnormal sensitivity to the cold as a symptom of another health condition.
Cold Hands vs. Cold FeetThe difference between cold hands and cold feet may come from the environment. Socks and shoes typically are worn outdoors throughout the year, while mittens or gloves are only worn during winter. In these cases, it might make sense that you are experiencing cold hands more often than you do cold feet.However, because health conditions like diabetes can cause cold feet, cold hands, or both, see a healthcare provider to rule out any chronic issues.
How to Warm Cold Feet at HomeTo make cold feet feel a little more comfortable, there are a few home remedies and lifestyle changes that experts suggest, including:Increasing physical activity to keep blood flow circulatingDressing in warm layers, including thick socks and slippers, at homeTrying a warm (but not too hot) foot bath for a quick dose of heatAvoiding outdoor cold temperatures when possible, and wearing insulated gear as neededStaying hydrated to maintain normal body function, including temperature regulationLimiting substances like caffeine and nicotine, which can magnify cold sensationsWhen to Medically Treat Cold FeetCold feet, especially in the winter, are not typically a cause for alarm. However, a few signs that may indicate seeking medical treatment are:Your feet are frequently cold when others are not.You're experiencing other symptoms that are abnormal for you.Cold feet are interfering with your daily life.A healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history and will perform a physical examination. They will look for symptoms of conditions such as:AnemiaDiabetesHypothyroidismRaynaud's diseaseDiagnostic tests include:Complete blood count (CBC): A blood test that can check red blood cell levels and scan for inflammation or infectionThyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test: Measures hormone levelsFollow-Up and Monitoring With a Chronic ConditionOccasional cold feet may not require specific medical care. But if you consistently experience cold feet and also have an underlying health condition, it's a good idea to monitor your treatment plan and symptoms closely. This includes people with Raynaud's phenomenon. People with diabetic neuropathy and cold feet require consistent medical care to ensure that a life-threatening infection or other complication doesn't develop.If you have a condition like anemia, a healthcare provider may opt to prescribe medication and recommend lifestyle adjustments to prevent cold feet from occurring or getting worse.SummaryCold feet can result from the weather or simply feeling chillier than usual. However, experiencing cold feet on a regular basis could be a sign of an underlying health condition, like Raynaud's phenomenon, anemia, or diabetes.A healthcare provider can investigate your cold feet pattern to determine a cause and appropriate treatment plan. Certain home remedies, like using a foot bath and incorporating physical movement as much as possible, may also help keep this symptom at bay. Read the original article on Verywell Health.
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