How To Treat Cold Hands and Feet

Why are my hands and feet always cold? It's normal to have cold hands and feet every now and then. Your extremities naturally get cold if it's chilly outside or you hold something cold. More severe causes include anemia, diabetes, and smoking.

Hands and feet that are constantly cold can be dangerous if they occur with skin color changes. These symptoms may indicate nerve damage or blood flow problems that can lead to tissue damage. Read on to learn why your hands and feet are always cold and when to see a healthcare provider.

Causes of Cold Hands and Feet

Cold hands and feet can occur for many reasons. Some causes may be due to the environment, while others may be a sign of a health condition.

Cold Temperatures

You may have cold hands and feet simply because of the temperature of your environment. Blood flow decreases in your hands and feet and increases in your torso and core when it's cold outside. This change in blood flow helps keep larger parts of your body warm.

Poor Circulation

You may have cold hands or feet if you have reduced blood circulation. Poor circulation can be the result of vasoconstriction or vaso-occlusion. Vasoconstriction causes narrowed arteries that decrease blood flow. Vaso-occlusion restricts blood flow due to blood vessel blockages.

Having Anemia

Anemia happens if your blood does not contain enough red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen throughout your body. A lack of red blood cells is another cause of poor circulation.

Diabetes

Diabetes occurs if your body does not produce or properly use insulin. This hormone helps control blood glucose (sugar). High glucose levels can damage nerves, resulting in problems sensing pain and temperature.

Consult a healthcare provider if you think you have diabetes. Other diabetes symptoms include:

• Excess thirst
• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Headaches
• Unintentional weight loss
  

Hypothyroidism

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the center of your neck. This gland regulates several bodily functions, including temperature. Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. Tingling, numbness, and cold sensations in the hands and feet may occur as a result. Other signs of hypothyroidism include weight gain, fatigue, and constipation.

Raynaud's Syndrome

A more severe cold sensitivity is a hallmark of Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's phenomenon or syndrome. Extremities—usually just fingers and toes, but sometimes nose and ears—may turn white or blue and go numb.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

The most common cause of anemia is a lack of iron. Another cause is a lack of vitamin B12. A vitamin B12 deficiency may not present with any symptoms. Some people might develop numbness, tingling hands and feet, and pale skin.

Smoking

Smoking tobacco products results in vasoconstriction due to nicotine content. Vasoconstriction can cause the temperature of body parts furthest from the heart—namely the fingers and toes—to drop. Smoking can also lead to Buerger's disease, a health condition that also causes cold hands and feet.

Risks of Cold Hands and Feet

Having cold hands, feet, or both is not normally a cause for concern. You may not need to seek medical attention for cold extremities unless you have other symptoms of an underlying health condition.

Treatments

The cause of why your extremities are cold will determine the type of treatment you need. Treatments can range from medications for Raynaud's disease or hypothyroidism to nutrient supplements for anemia.

How To Warm Cold Hands and Feet

You can sometimes get relief from cold hands and feet using home remedies or lifestyle changes. Try warming your extremities by:

• Avoiding cold temperatures when possible
• Dressing warmly in layers
• Increasing your activity levels (e.g., getting up from your desk at least every hour)
• Quitting smoking
• Staying hydrated
• Wearing warm, protective gear when necessary

When To See a Healthcare Provider

See a healthcare provider if your cold hands and feet are interfering with your daily life. It's a good idea to consult a healthcare provider if you have symptoms of anemia, hypothyroidism, or Raynaud's disease. They can perform tests and prescribe the right medication, supplements, or lifestyle changes.

A Quick Review

You may have cold hands and feet for a number of reasons, from diabetes and anemia to poor circulation and smoking. Reach out to a healthcare provider to further determine the cause of your cold toes and fingers. Cold extremities can be uncomfortable and interfere with your daily life.