{"id":10323,"date":"2019-09-05T17:28:07","date_gmt":"2019-09-05T17:28:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/?p=10323"},"modified":"2021-06-28T16:59:03","modified_gmt":"2021-06-28T16:59:03","slug":"14-common-causes-of-cold-feet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/14-common-causes-of-cold-feet\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Common Causes of Cold Feet"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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We\u2019ve all likely experienced the discomfort of having ice cold toes, at one time or another.  Human being throughout time has felt with this\u2026 especially in harsher, cold climate conditions.  While we cannot control our external environments, such as the weather (typically); we can control our internal environment, to a large extent.  That is good news! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Often, when there is a problem, there is about 50% that we can have control over to help make a difference, getting closer toward the state we want to be in.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here, are conveniently listed eight causes of cold feet that can help potentially guide you in gaining control over your cold feet condition, and aiding you on your way to a more comfortable state of being.  The information listed here comes from multiple sources on the internet, including Harvard Health, Healthline, and Medical News Today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Poor Circulation <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the top two reasons, according to Harvard Health, of cold feet is decreased circulation.\u00a0 One reason people may have poor circulation is atherosclerosis<\/a>.\u00a0 This is a broad level diagnosis that can be further diagnosed into smaller categories.\u00a0 This condition will impede or block the flow of blood in the extremities, such as arms, legs, hands, and feet.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extremities can even turn a shade of blue indicating a lack of oxygen to the area.  This typically will happen more upon lying down.  Pain may occur additionally as a result of this state, especially when walking.  This particular cause or condition can be checked by your doctor by having them check the pulse in the area of concern.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Poor circulation can also result when small blood vessels constrict (or get smaller, more narrow) in an attempt to save heat.  Thinner individuals may experience this more often then thicker individuals as a result of the body trying to stay warm, due to having less fat for insulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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2. Nerve Sensation Problem <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Nerve <\/a>damage is the second of our top two reasons, as listed by Harvard Health, specifically William Kormos, M.D. (2013), for cold feet.\u00a0 This, also known as neuropathy, is when the nerves (also known as sensory receptors) in the feet are malfunctioning and telling the brain that the temperature in the external environment is cold, when in actuality, it is not.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This condition is stated to be very common, with three million cases in the United States per year, according to Mayo Clinic and other sources.  However, it appears slightly less common and is more complex than the first cause listed here.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Treatment is helpful.  While cold temperature is not accurately felt in this condition, the person may feel a pins and needles sensation.  There may also be pain or weakness with this condition and a reduced ability to walk when occurring in the feet.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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3. Anemia <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This cause is a result of a shortage of red blood cells in the body.\u00a0 Red blood cells enable healthy circulation (blood flow).\u00a0 Especially in the case of severe anemia<\/a>, cold feet is a common response.\u00a0 One common cause of anemia can be an iron deficiency.\u00a0 This is not uncommon, even in really healthy individuals.\u00a0 Treatment is easy, including diet modification and nutritional supplements.\u00a0 Healthline lists this as a common cause of cold feet.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, if you are vegan or vegetarian, you might take a second look at this cause, because avoiding red meat, white meat, and seafood (if one\u2019s not careful) can be a potential kicker for low iron levels.  Many vegetables and fruits have good amounts of iron, beets being a primary source (and easy to remember because they are red like the blood), as well as spinach, lentils, tofu, strawberries, tomatoes, peas, oranges and more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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4. Type 1 & 2 Diabetes <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are two types of diabetes<\/a>.\u00a0 Type 2 is more common.\u00a0 About 93% of adult cases are type 2 diabetes.\u00a0 Currently, 9.4% of the United States population has a form of diabetes.\u00a0 Diabetes affects 1 out of 4 people that are over the ages of 65.\u00a0 Diabetes is currently not curable, but it can go into remission if managed well!\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Diabetes has been known to cause cold feet.  They may be cold to the touch, and\/or feel cold due to nerve damage (our number two listed cause here).  This means the chances of having cold feet are multiplied in the case of diabetes, if not properly managed.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alongside coldness, individuals here may feel a sense of pins and needles.  While this may seem daunting, to some; there are loads of things individuals can do to manage and improve this condition.  Be sure to speak with your doctor to manage this condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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5. Hypothyroidism <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hypothyroidism <\/a>is very common in the United States.\u00a0 It is treatable by natural and traditional medical practices.\u00a0 There are about 3 million cases per year in the US alone.\u00a0 The prescription drug (generic) levothyroxine (brand name Synthroid) is often used to treat it by medical professionals.\u00a0 It is an MD (medical doctor) written prescription that can be filled and picked up at nearly any pharmacy.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Health modifications can be done to improve the condition, including diet and exercise improvements.  This is when the thyroid is under-active, not producing enough of its hormone to support the body\u2019s processes.  This affects an individual\u2019s metabolism.  Metabolism affects heartbeat and internal temperature.  Therefore, circulation (blood flow) and temperature are affected immensely, leading to almost certain cold feet condition.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Testing for hypothyroidism is a very simple blood test.  Consulting with your doctor or clinic is the fastest way to know for sure if you have this condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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6. Peripheral Vascular Disease<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The last three causes here listed are less common causes than those above.  While this is a less common cause of cold feet, it is still considered a very common diagnosis in the United States.  There are over three million cases per year in the US alone.  Often, lab tests or imaging are required for a diagnosis.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also called Peripheral Artery Disease<\/a> (PAD), Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) is a circulation condition where blood vessels are too narrow and they reduce blood flow, affecting especially peripheral limbs, such as the arms, legs, hands, and feet.\u00a0 This is one type of atherosclerosis (as mentioned above). \u00a0 Atherosclerosis is when arteries have become smaller (more narrow) from calcium build-up, scarred tissue, and fatty deposits.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In PVD, individuals experience vessels that may even spasm.  They often experience fatigue and pain in the legs during exercise, and sometimes even when at rest.  This can last years, finally going into remission (no longer existing) if properly treated, or it can last a lifetime.  Smoking cigarettes increases the likelihood of this condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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7. Raynaud\u2019s Phenomenon <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This less common cause of cold feet is a condition where areas of the body may feel cool and numb.\u00a0 It can cause a blue hue when oxygen <\/a>is low, and a red hue when the blood flow is restored to the area.\u00a0 It is referred to as a common condition with about 200,000 cases per year in the US.\u00a0 This condition is treatable.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this condition, the small arteries in the body constrict too much in response to cold temperatures in the environment.  This is a normal reaction, except for the amount that they restrict; as it is too excessive.  It ends up limiting blood flow to areas of the body, the feet being one, often.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Toes, ears, and the nose are other areas that this condition tends to affect.  Stress is another kicker for this hyper-constriction of the smaller blood vessels.  Stress tends to inflame most conditions, though.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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8. High Stress or Anxiety <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The body sometimes responds to stress in strange ways.\u00a0 One response that can occur is for the body to pump adrenaline throughout the bloodstream<\/a>.\u00a0 Adrenaline makes the arteries and vessels constrict, limiting blood flow, and therefore oxygen, to peripheral parts of the body.\u00a0 This is an attempt to save energy in preparation for the need to bolt or take off at high speeds from a potential threat or danger.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your body has good intentions, but, in states of prolonged stress, it can become a bit of a nuisance, often causing cold feet.  Today\u2019s society is full of stressors\u2026 social norms to uphold, economics and financial thoughts and concerns, and a beaucoup of varieties of more, depending on your situation!  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try to take deep breaths and focus on the positive.  Maybe you have a close friend or partner who can give you a nice relaxing foot rub to stimulate blood flow to the area, as well as providing a relaxing reduction to your stress and worry, reducing the adrenaline in your system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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9. Heart Conditions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Heart conditions are diagnosed in thousands of people every year, and you could be one of them if you can point to any symptoms like an increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, chest pain or cold limbs or digits (including cold feet).\u00a0 There are many different heart conditions out there, and even though there can be a great deal of variation in what those conditions are and what causes them, there are many factors that overlap.\u00a0
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The majority of heart conditions share a lot of the same symptoms: Chest pain, heart palpitations and cold feet might be typical of many different heart conditions. Many heart conditions can also be made worse by dietary factors and can be triggered by family history. 
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Pay special attention if you have symptoms like tiredness <\/a>or chest pain accompanying cold feet: An appointment with your doctor is the best and safest option for an accurate diagnosis.
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10. Inflammation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Inflammation <\/a>is common to many people and there are many conditions out there that can cause it as well as different factors that are likely to trigger it. A lot of people out there might not realize that arthritis is a type of joint inflammation (which can have a much more full-body effect than people would imagine) and that it can have many varying effects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the symptoms associated with inflammation can be the feeling of coldness in the hands or feet, particularly when a flare-up of inflammation is at its height. Normally inflammation is instead associated with the area feeling hot to the touch, but this isn\u2019t always the case. Inflammation can frequently feel cold too, thanks to the effect that it can have on circulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

See your doctor where you suspect that inflammation or a chronic inflammatory condition is causing your symptoms. Lifestyle changes and anti-inflammatory medication can help to manage the condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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11. Fractures<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fractures <\/a>can happen suddenly through accidents, or they can happen over a longer period of time as repetitive stress injuries that cause hairline fractures through years of impact. Where fractures have started to affect blood flow or nerve feeling, it\u2019s likely to make the area feel tingly, numb and cold \u2013 and if you have cold feet after a recent injury (or in the right spot for an injury that\u2019s years old), see your doctor.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The feeling of cold feet together with a break or fracture almost always means that there is something else wrong, especially if the onset of this symptom is sudden (and even if the injury is an old one). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Physical therapy is one way of helping your body to get back to health after a serious break, fracture or another injury, and it can help to bring relief to cold feet caused by this. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where the symptom continues, an appointment with your doctor and usually x-rays are the first steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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12. Breathing Disorders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Breathing disorders and lung conditions like bronchitis <\/a>can sometimes affect the heart\u2019s ability to function, which in turn affects the circulation and just how much oxygen can get to the blood and heart from there. This means that breathing disorders can commonly be associated with symptoms that include cold feet together with numbness, tingling and a feeling of panic.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pay attention where asthma is present, and make sure that you always have the right prescription asthma medication close in the event of an asthma attack, which is always considered to be a serious medical emergency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cold feet that happen together with an existing heart or breathing condition should always be a serious warning sign. Where there isn\u2019t enough oxygen reaching the heart, serious health issues are inevitable and could even be fatal. In these cases, a doctor\u2019s appointment might not be fast enough. Instead, make a trip to the emergency room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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13. A Surgical Side-Effect<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cold feet isn\u2019t just a symptom that people can often associate with chronic conditions alone.  It can also present as a temporary symptom that\u2019s part of another cause \u2013 and it could go away with time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have recently had surgery within the past few days, cold feet can be one of the first things that you notice when waking up. When people emerge from surgery, usually their hands and feet are freezing cold \u2013 and this is because the blood pressure<\/a> and heart rate are artificially lowered when people are \u201cput under\u201d for surgeries. Operating rooms are cooled down in order to help the process along and can also enhance the effect of \u201ccold feet\u201d after waking up from surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s normal for this to happen for a few hours to days, but once the symptom lasts longer than this, it can point to other health problems (like nerve issues described earlier on in this article).  See your doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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14. Low Blood Pressure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Blood pressure should measure at 120 over 80 on a blood pressure reader when it\u2019s normal. Fluctuations that go a little above or below this can be considered normal, especially on a hot day, after exercise or when the body or mind is under more stress than it usually is \u2013 but any fluctuations that go too low or too high could point to chronic issues with blood pressure that will need medical attention. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Low blood pressure<\/a> can be associated with other symptoms such as feeling faint, actually fainting and the phenomenon that most people call \u201cseeing stars\u201d when the blood pressure drops to low-enough levels.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conditions like anemia and a family history of blood pressure issues (both high and low) can place you at a higher risk of developing low blood pressure, meaning that you should see your doctor even if you aren\u2019t showing any symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Low blood pressure can be controlled with the use of the right medication combined with a healthy, well-planned lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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