What Causes Heat Sensation in the Palms and Soles?

In daily life, many people frequently experience warmth or heat in the palms of their hands. When pressed against other areas of skin, this sensation may feel distinctly warm. Some individuals experience hot palms only during summer, while their palms become cold in winter. Others—particularly those with more pronounced symptoms—feel heat not only in their palms but also in the soles of their feet, often accompanied by persistent irritability and a tendency toward anger. So, what causes heat in the palms and soles? Below, we address this question.

Causes of Heat in the Palms and Soles

1. Malnutrition-Related Spleen Deficiency (Gan Ji Pi Xu)

Irregular or excessive eating habits over time can impair spleen and stomach function, disrupting normal digestive processes and leading to malnutrition-related syndrome (“gan ji”) with associated fever. Additionally, improper or prolonged treatment of other illnesses—such as vomiting, diarrhea, dysentery, or parasitic infections—may deplete qi and blood, resulting in malnutrition and subsequent fever. Common manifestations include heat in the palms and soles, sallow complexion, emaciation, dry and brittle hair, abdominal distension, and poor appetite.

2. Yin Deficiency and Blood Deficiency

Yin deficiency commonly presents with “five-center heat” (heat in both palms, both soles, and the chest), dizziness, and other symptoms—often stemming from kidney yin deficiency or combined liver-kidney yin deficiency. Typical signs include soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, heat in the palms and soles, dry throat and mouth, and a red tongue with scant saliva. In such cases, consuming foods and herbs that nourish yin and clear heat—such as mung beans, radishes, and Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Rehmannia Six Formula)—is recommended. Blood deficiency is more common among women and frequently coexists with dysmenorrhea. A hallmark presentation is heat in the palms and soles during summer, contrasted by coldness in these areas during winter. Dietary remedies such as pumpkin, jujube (Chinese date), and Dang Gui Bu Xue Wan (Angelica Blood-Nourishing Pills) may help alleviate symptoms.

3. Underlying Disease

Certain diseases—including pulmonary tuberculosis and hepatic disorders—may present with heat in the palms and soles, alongside symptoms such as night sweats, fatigue, coughing, lethargy, and abdominal distension. Patients are advised to adjust dietary habits promptly, maintain adequate hydration, and engage in appropriate physical activity. Additionally, avoid wearing overly tight shoes or socks; instead, opt for breathable, cotton socks and change them regularly. If symptoms are severe, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are essential.

The above outlines the primary causes of heat in the palms and soles. We hope this information proves helpful.