What causes cold intolerance and how to manage it

Generally, feeling cold is mainly associated with lack of physical activity, improper diet, wind-cold感冒 (common cold due to exposure to cold), iron deficiency, hypothyroidism, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow a doctor's guidance for regulation through general treatments, medications, etc. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Lack of Exercise

Long-term inactivity may lead to poor blood circulation, causing insufficient oxygen and energy supply to various parts of the body, thus resulting in the aforementioned symptoms. Engaging appropriately in exercises such as jogging, yoga, or walking can improve blood circulation and promote heat production in the body.

2. Improper Diet

Excessive consumption of cold foods and beverages, such as iced drinks and chilled fruits, may disrupt the body’s temperature regulation, leading to increased sensitivity to cold. It is advisable to consume warm-natured, qi-tonifying foods such as ginger, beef, and lamb for regulation.

3. Wind-Cold Common Cold

A sudden drop in ambient temperature or prolonged exposure to cold environments may easily cause the body to become chilled, triggering a wind-cold type of common cold. After becoming chilled, abnormal closure of sweat pores may result in chills. It is important to wear warm clothing and avoid prolonged exposure to cold environments.

4. Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Long-term picky eating, vegetarian diets, or insufficient intake of iron-rich foods may lead to inadequate iron intake, causing iron-deficiency anemia. This can impair normal tissue energy metabolism, resulting in cold intolerance, often accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness and tinnitus. Patients should take iron supplements such as ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous fumarate tablets, or compound ammonium ferric citrate syrup under medical supervision.

5. Hypothyroidism

Long-term insufficient iodine intake may impair thyroid hormone synthesis, leading to hypothyroidism, which slows down metabolism and reduces heat production, making individuals prone to feeling cold. Symptoms may also include pale complexion, dry and cool skin, roughness with flaking, and excessive sleepiness. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or Danggui Buxue oral liquid for treatment.

In daily life, it is important to engage in appropriate outdoor exercise, maintain warmth, and consume more fruits rich in vitamin C to promote blood circulation.