Why Are My Hands Always Cold? 18 Big FAQs

Do you always feel like your hands and feet are colder than the rest of your body, even when you're in a warm environment? Cold hands and feet can be a common problem, especially during the colder months, but in some cases, it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.

What are some common causes of cold hands and feet?

There are several common causes of cold hands and feet, some of which include poor circulation, low blood pressure, and anemia.

Poor circulation

Poor circulation is one of the most common causes of cold hands and feet. When there is less blood flow to your hands and feet, it can make them feel cold. The blood vessels in your hands and feet constrict (narrow), limiting the blood flow to your extremities, and reducing the amount of warmth your body can generate.

Low blood pressure

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can also cause your hands and feet to feel cold. This is because low blood pressure reduces the blood flow throughout the body, including your hands and feet, making them feel colder.

Anemia

Anemia is a condition where your body doesn't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. This can cause your hands and feet to feel cold because oxygen is needed to maintain body temperature.

What are the possible causes of persistent cold hands and feet?

If your hands and feet are always cold, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Some of the possible causes include thyroid issues, iron deficiency, and peripheral artery disease.

Thyroid issues

If your thyroid gland isn't working properly, it can affect your body temperature and cause you to feel cold. Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, is a common cause of persistent cold hands and feet.

Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency can cause anemia, which can make your hands and feet feel cold. Iron is needed to produce hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body.

Peripheral artery disease

Peripheral artery disease is a condition where the blood vessels in your legs and arms become narrow, reducing blood flow to your hands and feet. This can cause your hands and feet to feel cold, and in severe cases, it can lead to skin discoloration and ulcers

What are some symptoms associated with cold hands and feet?

If your hands and feet are always cold, you may experience certain symptoms, such as tingling sensations, hands turning white or blue, and blood vessels in hands constricting.

Tingling sensations

Tingling sensations are a common symptom of poor circulation and can cause your hands and feet to feel numb.

Hands may turn white or blue

When your hands or feet are exposed to cold, the blood vessels in your hands or feet may constrict, reducing blood flow. This can cause your hands to turn white or blue.

Blood vessels in hands may constrict

When there is poor blood circulation, the blood vessels in your hands and feet may constrict, making them feel colder.

How can poor blood circulation cause cold hands and feet?

Poor circulation can cause cold hands and feet because when the blood vessels constrict, it limits the blood flow to your extremities. This reduces the amount of warmth your body can generate and can make your hands and feet feel colder.

Blood vessels constrict and limit blood flow to extremities

When the blood vessels constrict, it limits the blood flow to your hands and feet, reducing the amount of warmth your body can generate.

What are some ways to prevent or relieve cold hands and feet?

Thankfully, there are several ways to prevent or relieve cold hands and feet.

Dress warmly in cold temperatures

If you are going to be in a cold environment, it's important to dress warmly. This may include wearing gloves and warm socks to protect your hands and feet.

Exercise regularly to improve blood flow

Regular exercise can help improve your blood flow and reduce the risk of cold hands and feet.

Elevate feet to reduce swelling and improve blood circulation

If you experience swelling in your feet or legs, elevating them can help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of cold feet. In conclusion, cold hands and feet can be a common problem for many people, but if you experience persistent cold hands and feet, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of cold hands and feet can help you better manage your symptoms and prevent future problems. If you are concerned about your cold hands or feet, speak to your healthcare provider for advice and treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Why Are My Hands Always Cold

Q: Can cold weather cause my hands and feet always to be cold?

A: Yes, exposure to cold weather can cause your hands and feet to always feel cold. This is a normal response of your body to handling cold temperatures.

Q: How can I get my hands warm?

A: You can put your hands in warm water or wear gloves or mittens to help your hands stay warm.

Q: What are the underlying causes of cold feet and hands?

A: The underlying causes of cold feet and hands can include poor circulation, thyroid issues, Raynaud’s disease, and anemia.

Q: Can poor circulation contribute to cold hands and feet?

A: Yes, poor circulation can reduce the blood flow to the hands and feet, which can make them feel constantly cold.

Q: Is having cold hands and feet a sign of Raynaud`s disease?

A: Yes, it is one of the most common signs of Raynaud’s disease. In this condition, the blood vessels throughout the body, but particularly in the hands and feet, go into spasm and narrow, restricting the flow of oxygen-rich blood and causing the fingers and toes to start to feel cold and change color.

Q: What can I do to improve my circulation and prevent having cold hands or feet?

A: Regular exercise and keeping your feet or hands warm in cold weather can help improve your circulation and prevent having cold hands and feet.

Q: Are there any medical treatments available for always having cold hands?

A: If there are underlying medical conditions that are causing your hands to feel cold, such as anemia, Raynaud’s disease, or thyroid issues, your doctor may prescribe medications or other treatments to help manage the condition and reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms.

Q: When should I seek medical attention if I have constantly cold hands?

A: If your hands feel unusually cold and are accompanied by other symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, or pain, it may be a sign of an underlying medical problem, and you should see a doctor immediately.

Q: Is it harmful to have cold hands?

A: In most cases, cold hands are not harmful, but they can be uncomfortable. However, if it is due to underlying medical issues, leaving it untreated may cause other health problems such as tissue damage or ulcers.

Q: Why are my hands always cold?

A: There could be multiple reasons why your hands are persistently cold. Generally, it occurs when your body reduces blood flow to the extremities in response to cold temperatures, in order to preserve body heat for more vital parts of the body. However, if your hands are always cold even when it’s warm, it could be an indication of an underlying medical condition.

Q: What are some of the causes and treatment options for hands and feet always cold?

A: Some common causes of persistently cold hands and feet include low blood pressure, anemia, damage to the hands or feet, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances. To treat this condition, you need to identify the underlying cause and take appropriate actions. You can help your blood flow better by immersing your hands and feet in warm water periodically. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help improve your circulation.

Q: Can cold hands signal a serious medical issue?

A: Yes, cold hands can sometimes be a sign that your body is struggling, or that you may be suffering from an underlying medical condition that requires attention. If your hands are persistently cold, it is recommended that you visit a medical center for assessment and treatment.

Q: Why do my hands get cold even when the rest of my body is warm?

A: When your hands and feet get cold even when the rest of your body is warm, it is known as poor circulation. This occurs when your blood vessels restrict the flow of blood to your extremities, which can sometimes be caused by a lack of healthy red blood cells in your system.

Q: Can high blood sugar levels cause cold hands and feet?

A: Yes, high blood sugar levels can cause circulation problems, resulting in cold hands and feet. It is important to monitor your blood sugar levels if you suffer from diabetes, and to follow your doctor’s advice on how to manage your condition.

Q: How can I warm up my hands when they are ice cold?

A: You can warm up your hands by rubbing them together vigorously, immersing them in warm water, or holding them close to a source of heat. Wearing gloves or mittens can also help to keep your hands warm in colder weather.

Q: Why do my hands usually feel colder than my feet?

A: Your hands usually feel colder than your feet because the blood vessels in your hands are positioned closer to the surface of the skin. This makes it easier for them to lose heat, which can make them feel colder more quickly.

Q: Can a lack of red blood cells be responsible for my cold hands?

A: Yes, if you have a lack of red blood cells, also known as anemia, you may experience cold hands and feet as well as other symptoms. This is because red blood cells transport oxygen to the body’s tissues and organs. If there aren't enough red blood cells, the body cannot get enough oxygen, causing cold hands and feet, fatigue, and weakness. It is recommended you see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Q: Why are my hands always cold, even in warm rooms or weather?

A: If your hands are always cold, even when it is warm around you, it is possible that your body is struggling to circulate blood and maintain a consistent temperature. This could be a sign that there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

Q: Can damage to the hands result in cold hands?

A: Yes, damage to the hands can result in reduced blood flow, which can cause cold hands as a result. If you are experiencing numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands, it is recommended you see a doctor to determine the underlying cause.

Q: Can cold hands and feet lead to other health concerns?

A: Yes, if left untreated, cold hands and feet can be a sign of a bigger issue in the body and can lead to long-term damage to the affected body parts. It is important to consult a doctor if this issue persists.