What causes a cold or chilly sensation in the chest?

Generally, a sensation of coldness in the chest may be caused by physiological factors such as mental anxiety and stress, or by pathological conditions such as malnutrition, hypothyroidism, and coronary atherosclerosis. A detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Factors

Patients experiencing mental anxiety or tension may develop a sensation of coldness in the chest due to altered sensory perception. This typically does not require specific treatment and symptoms usually resolve naturally once emotional stress subsides.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Malnutrition

Malnutrition can occur due to inadequate food intake or excessive nutrient consumption, leading to insufficient blood supply and reduced peripheral circulation, which may cause a feeling of coldness in the chest. Under medical guidance, patients may take ferrous sulfate tablets, vitamin B12 tablets, or multivitamin supplements.

2. Hypothyroidism

When a patient's immune system becomes abnormal, destructive antibodies against thyroid tissue may form, reducing thyroid hormone production and resulting in hypothyroidism. Due to a lowered basal metabolic rate, patients may feel persistent coldness in the chest area. Under medical supervision, medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets or thyroid tablets may be prescribed.

3. Coronary Atherosclerosis

Coronary atherosclerosis develops due to lipid metabolism disorders and may lead to myocardial ischemia, causing discomfort in the precordial area, angina, chest tightness, a cold sensation in the chest, dizziness, and other symptoms. Under a doctor’s guidance, medications such as pravastatin sodium tablets, fluvastatin sodium extended-release tablets, or simvastatin tablets may be used.

In addition, similar symptoms may also arise from conditions such as acute bronchitis, bronchial asthma, or diabetes. It is recommended that individuals experiencing the above symptoms seek timely evaluation at a reputable medical facility and take appropriate medications under the guidance of a qualified physician.