What Does Feeling Chronically Cold Tell You About Your Health

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Have you ever wondered why you always seem to be shivering while everyone else is basking in warmth? Being chronically cold could actually be trying to tell you something about your health; that’s right, your body might be dropping some not-so-subtle hints. Read on to find out more about the fascinating world of body temperature and health.

Poor Circulation

One potential culprit behind chronic coldness is poor circulation. Our blood vessels play a crucial role in regulating body temperature. When blood flow to our extremities—like our hands and feet—is restricted, it can leave us feeling like ice cubes. So, if your fingers and toes frequently resemble popsicles, it might be worth checking in.

Underactive Thyroid

The thyroid gland- this little powerhouse located in our neck is responsible for regulating our metabolism. When the thyroid gland becomes underactive, a condition known as hypothyroidism, it can lead to a drop in body temperature. So, if you find yourself wrapped in layers even when others are rocking tank tops, it might be time to have a chat with your doctor about your thyroid function. Poor thyroid function is resolved with synthetic thyroid hormones, a pill a day will usually resolve the issues although it can take some time to reach the correct dose for you.

Anemia

Iron-deficiency anemia, a common condition, occurs when our bodies don’t have enough iron to produce sufficient red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen throughout our bodies, and when their numbers dwindle, it can result in feelings of coldness. So, if you’re constantly reaching for an extra sweater, it could be a sign that you need to boost your iron levels through a healthy diet or supplementation.

Raynaud’s Disease

Ever experienced fingers or toes that turn ghostly white or blue when exposed to even a slight chill? You might be dealing with Raynaud’s disease, a condition where the blood vessels in certain body parts overreact to cold temperatures or stress, leading to restricted blood flow. If you suspect Raynaud’s, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and guidance on managing the symptoms.

Low Body Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for numerous reasons, and here’s another one to add to the list. When our bodies lack adequate insulation in the form of body fat, it can make us more susceptible to feeling cold. If you’ve noticed a significant and unintentional drop in weight accompanied by constant chills, it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop a plan to regain a healthy weight.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While occasional bouts of feeling cold are normal, persistent and unexplained coldness could be a sign that something’s amiss. If you find yourself constantly shivering, even in warm environments, experiencing additional symptoms alongside the coldness, or if your coldness is interfering with your daily life, it’s important to reach out to a healthcare professional. In the mean time, cosy clothing, electric blankets and things like foot warmers can mean no more cold feet or an overall chill. From there you can help identify any underlying health conditions to fix the problem at the source.

Feeling cold at times is normal, always being cold (especially when the weather isn’t cold and others around you are a normal temperature) isn’t. So don’t overlook this symptom.