7 Health Conditions That Make You Feel Cold All the Time
Do you find yourself reaching for a jacket or blanket all year round? Do you feel like others in the room are comfortable while you shiver with cold? You may be experiencing hypersensitivity to cold, which could be a sign of underlying health conditions. Below are seven health conditions that make you feel cold all the time.
1. Anemia
Anemia occurs when there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. This lack of oxygen triggers a feeling of coldness that can be accompanied by fatigue, shortness of breath, and weakness. Women, individuals with heavy menstrual bleeding, and those with a poor diet may be at a higher risk of developing anemia.
2. Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland controls the metabolism and body temperature, so when it isn’t functioning correctly, you may feel cold all the time. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive, and the body struggles to produce enough thyroid hormones to regulate body temperature and metabolic rate. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, fatigue, and depression.
3. Raynaud’s Syndrome
Raynaud’s Syndrome is a rare condition characterized by the narrowing of blood vessels in the hands and feet in response to cold temperatures or stress. This causes the affected areas to feel cold and numb, followed by a burning or tingling sensation as the blood vessels reopen. Raynaud’s Syndrome can also cause color changes in the skin, such as white, blue, or red, and may be triggered by tobacco use, medication, or other underlying health conditions.
4. Peripheral Vascular Disease
Peripheral Vascular Disease is a condition that affects blood circulation in the legs, arms, and other extremities. The narrowing or blockage of arteries reduces blood flow to the affected body parts, causing them to feel cold and numb. Individuals with diabetes or hypertension are at a higher risk of developing Peripheral Vascular Disease.
5. Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder that can cause individuals to feel cold all the time due to their low body weight and malnutrition. When the body lacks fat and muscle tissue, it loses the ability to store heat, leading to constant feelings of coldness, especially in the hands and feet. Other symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa include extreme weight loss, low blood pressure, and irregular heart rate.
6. Iron Deficiency
Iron is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, and a deficiency in iron can lead to anemia and constant feelings of coldness. Iron deficiency can be caused by a poor diet, blood loss, or an inability to absorb enough iron from food.
7. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a complex and chronic condition characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest. This fatigue can lead to feelings of coldness, along with muscle pain, headaches, and cognitive difficulties.
In conclusion, feeling cold all the time can be a symptom of underlying health conditions that require medical attention. If you experience constant feelings of coldness or any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.
