What causes cold hands and feet and sensitivity to cold, and how to manage it?
Sep 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, cold hands and feet accompanied by sensitivity to cold may be caused by factors such as being underweight, insufficiently warm clothing, lack of physical activity, hypothyroidism, or anemia. Management may include general measures and medication under the guidance of a physician. If any discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the supervision of a qualified doctor.
Generally, cold hands and feet accompanied by sensitivity to cold may be caused by factors such as being underweight, insufficiently warm clothing, lack of physical activity, anemia, or hypothyroidism. Management may include general lifestyle adjustments or medications under the guidance of a healthcare provider. If any discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the supervision of a qualified physician. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Being Underweight
People with a slim build often have a thinner layer of body fat, which makes it easier for body heat to dissipate, potentially leading to cold hands and feet and cold intolerance. Increasing body weight appropriately through a balanced diet and regular exercise can enhance the thickness of the fat layer and improve the body's ability to retain heat.
2. Insufficiently Warm Clothing
When clothing is not warm enough, cold air directly affects the skin, triggering the body's thermoregulatory response. This causes peripheral blood vessels to constrict in order to minimize heat loss and protect the core body temperature, resulting in cold hands and feet. In cold weather, wearing sufficient clothing—especially thermal underwear, down jackets, and other warm garments—is recommended.
3. Lack of Physical Activity
Inadequate physical activity can reduce metabolic rate and slow blood circulation, depriving extremities such as hands and feet of adequate blood supply, thereby causing them to feel cold. Engaging in moderate aerobic exercises such as jogging, brisk walking, or swimming can help improve circulation.
4. Anemia
Poor dietary habits or prolonged exposure to certain chemicals may increase the risk of anemia. A reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells leads to inadequate oxygen delivery to peripheral tissues, causing symptoms such as cold hands and feet and cold intolerance, possibly accompanied by dizziness, fatigue, palpitations, and shortness of breath. Patients may take medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, Shengxue Bao mixture, or Ejiao Blood Tonic Granules under medical supervision.
5. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism may be caused by genetic factors, resulting in insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones. This leads to a decreased metabolic rate and reduced heat production, manifesting as cold hands and feet and sensitivity to cold, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as chills, cold intolerance, and weight gain. Treatment options may include medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets, used under a doctor’s recommendation.
In daily life, it is advisable to consume foods rich in protein, fats, and carbohydrates, wear sufficient clothing in cold weather, and use warm gloves and socks.
