What causes feverish sensations in the hands and feet?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Yin deficiency with hyperactive fire is caused by insufficient yin fluids such as blood and body fluids. Due to this insufficiency, the patient's body cannot effectively moisten and nourish various parts, especially the extremities far from the heart, leading to sensations of heat in the hands and feet. This condition may also be accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, dry mouth and throat, insomnia with vivid dreams, irritability, and quick temper. Under medical guidance, medications such as Zhibai Dihuang Pills can be used for treatment.
Under normal circumstances, hot hands and feet may be caused by high ambient temperature, intense physical activity, yin deficiency with hyperactivity of fire, menopausal syndrome, hyperthyroidism, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. High environmental temperature
In hot weather or warm indoor environments, the body expands blood vessels—especially peripheral vessels—to dissipate heat, which may lead to a sensation of heat in the hands and feet. Avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures and drink plenty of water to assist in cooling the body.
2. Intense physical activity
During exercise, increased muscle activity accelerates metabolism and generates heat. The body responds by dilating blood vessels to release heat through the skin surface, maintaining thermal balance. This process may cause the hands and feet to feel hot. After exercising, rest appropriately, rehydrate, and wear breathable clothing to help the body cool down.
3. Yin deficiency with hyperactivity of fire
Yin deficiency with hyperactivity of fire results from insufficient yin fluids such as blood and bodily fluids. Due to inadequate internal moisture, the body—particularly the extremities far from the heart—cannot be properly moistened and nourished, leading to sensations of heat in the hands and feet. This condition may also be accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, dry mouth and throat, insomnia with vivid dreams, irritability, and mood swings. Treatment under medical supervision may include herbal formulations such as Zhibai Dihuang Pills, Baihe Gujin Pills, or Baizi Ren Pills.
4. Menopausal syndrome
Menopausal syndrome is caused by hormonal changes and aging. As women enter menopause, declining estrogen levels can trigger hot flashes—sudden feelings of heat in the hands and feet—often accompanied by night sweats and emotional fluctuations. Treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as Nvzhen Granules, Kunbao Pills, or Gengnian'an Capsules.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is typically caused by excessive secretion of thyroid hormones. Elevated thyroid hormone levels accelerate the body's metabolic rate and increase energy expenditure, resulting in elevated body temperature and sensations of heat in the hands and feet. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, weight loss, and anxiety. Under medical supervision, treatment may include medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or carbimazole tablets.
In daily life, avoid prolonged stays in high-temperature environments. After intense exercise, allow adequate rest and replenish nutrients and fluids to help improve overall physical health.
