What causes elderly people to feel cold easily?

Sep 22, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Older adults may feel cold due to decreased function of the body's temperature regulation center, poor peripheral circulation, anemia, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and other causes. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to visit a正规 hospital and follow a doctor's guidance for treatments such as general management and medication. Elderly individuals should pay attention to staying warm and maintaining a balanced diet in daily life.

Generally, elderly individuals may feel cold due to decreased function of the body's temperature regulation center, poor peripheral circulation, anemia, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and other conditions. When experiencing the above symptoms, it is recommended to visit a正规 hospital and receive treatments such as general management or medication under the guidance of a physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Decreased Function of the Thermoregulatory Center

With aging and declining physiological functions, the thermoregulatory center in the brain becomes less sensitive to changes in environmental temperature. This makes it difficult for older adults to detect temperature fluctuations, increasing the risk of hypothermia and causing them to feel cold easily. It is important to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and avoid sudden exposure to extreme cold or heat.

2. Poor Peripheral Circulation

As blood vessels lose elasticity with age, peripheral blood circulation can become impaired, leading to reduced temperature in the extremities. This may result in elderly individuals feeling cold. Daily attention should be paid to staying warm, especially in the hands and feet.

3. Anemia

Anemia may result from insufficient red blood cell production, unbalanced diet, or exposure to certain chemicals. This condition can lead to sluggish blood circulation and inadequate oxygen supply, causing elderly individuals to feel cold. Symptoms may include dizziness and fatigue. Patients should take medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, folic acid tablets, or Ejiao Buxue Granules as directed by a doctor to alleviate symptoms.

4. Hypothyroidism

Irregular作息 patterns and weakened immunity may lead to hypothyroidism, resulting in insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones and a decreased metabolic rate, which can cause the aforementioned symptoms. Additional symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, and memory decline. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, methimazole tablets, or prednisone acetate tablets for treatment.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes may be caused by improper diet or low immunity. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage nerves and impair sweat gland function, leading to disturbances in body temperature regulation and making elderly individuals more prone to feeling cold. Common accompanying symptoms include excessive thirst and fatigue. Under medical supervision, patients may use medications such as Xiangtangling Capsules, metformin hydrochloride tablets, or acarbose capsules to improve their condition.

Elderly individuals should pay attention to staying warm, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in moderate exercise to strengthen their physical health. They should also closely monitor bodily changes, promptly adjust lifestyle habits, and strive to maintain overall well-being to reduce discomfort from feeling cold.