Have you ever found yourself bundled up in layers upon layers of warm clothing, blankets, and hot beverages yet still feeling cold from the inside out? If your answer is yes, then you’re not alone. Feeling cold is a common occurrence, especially on chilly winter days, but it could also be a symptom of an underlying health condition.
Below are five health conditions that make you feel cold and an understanding of their causes and symptoms.
1. Anemia
Anemia is a medical condition characterized by low levels of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. This means that your body doesn’t get enough oxygen, which can lead to feeling cold and fatigued. Other symptoms include weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and headaches.
Causes of anemia include a lack of iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid, blood loss due to injury or menstruation, chronic diseases such as cancer and kidney failure, and certain medications.
2. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and body temperature. This can lead to feeling cold, weight gain, fatigue, depression, dry skin, and hair loss.
Causes of hypothyroidism include autoimmune disorders, iodine deficiency, radiation treatment, and certain medications.
3. Raynaud’s Disease
Raynaud’s disease is a disorder that affects blood circulation, causing the fingers and toes to feel cold, numb, and painful. This happens when the blood vessels in the affected areas constrict, limiting blood flow. Other symptoms include skin color changes, tingling or burning sensations, and swelling.
The causes of Raynaud’s disease are unknown, but it can be triggered by exposure to cold temperatures, stress, and certain medications.
4. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disorder that involves persistent fatigue that isn’t relieved by rest, along with other symptoms such as muscle pain, headaches, and problems with concentration and memory. Feeling cold is another symptom of CFS, and it’s thought to be related to the immune system and hormonal imbalances.
The causes of CFS are unknown, but it may be triggered by infections, immune system problems, or hormonal imbalances.
5. Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves that control sensation and movement in the limbs, hands, and feet are damaged. This can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness, and it can also make you feel cold.
Causes of peripheral neuropathy include diabetes, infections, alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies, and exposure to toxins.
In conclusion, feeling cold can be a symptom of various health conditions. If you experience persistent coldness, it’s worth getting checked out by a medical professional to rule out any underlying conditions. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as drinking plenty of fluids, staying warm, and eating a balanced diet, can also help improve your overall health and wellbeing.
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