Why do I always have cold hands?

Cold hands are unpleasant, but they might be a normal response to the outside temperature or a characteristic of the body. However, it may also indicate circulatory system illnesses and other bodily abnormalities. You will learn from this information why we experience cold in our hands. We’ll also show you how to deal with the uncomfortable feeling of being cold.

What causes cold hands

There might be various causes for having cold hands all of the time, regardless of the weather outside.

1. Poor circulation of blood

David Friedman, a cardiologist in New York City, explains:

Our bodies need oxygen and trace elements, which are found in circulation. Blood circulation decreases when the heart isn’t performing correctly or pumping sufficiently. Constantly cold hands, numbness, and tingling of the fingers are symptoms of this illness. The legs have a similar sensation. To get the latest stories, install our app here

Heart failure, for example, is one example of this. The cardiac muscle does not create enough energy to pump blood across the body with this condition.

Blood flow may also be slowed by cholesterol plaques on the walls of arteries and capillaries.

2. Raynaud’s phenomenon

The most common cause of Raynaud’s phenomenon is a benign ailment of the body. The vessels in the arms and legs narrow too much due to it.

According to Jay Bishop, MD, of the United States, vasoconstriction in response to a drop in temperature is a perfectly natural reflex. This is how our body keeps its internal temperature stable so that the important organs can continue to operate.

Raynaud’s illness causes the same response regardless of the temperature. Hands might feel cold all the time and even change color momentarily. Vasospastic seizures are the name for these short-term alterations. To get the latest stories, install our app here

Because of congested arteries, the afflicted region, most typically the fingers, may become white. The color might also be blue or purple. When the hands get heated, the arteries widen, and blood rushes to the hands, causing the hands to become red.

Concomitant disorders induce the secondary type of Raynaud’s disease, which is less prevalent. It’s common in persons who have connective tissue illnesses, which cause vasoconstriction in the extremities. This occurs in lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, and dermatomyositis, for example. In this instance, seeing a doctor get the appropriate treatment is recommended. It is done with the use of medications as well as non-drug approaches.

3. Anemia

Our bodies do not get enough oxygen when there aren’t enough red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. Anemia is the medical term for this ailment.

Cold hands are a typical sign of anemia, according to Nesochi Okeke-Igbokwe, MD, USA. A deficiency of iron is sometimes the cause of this condition. Blood loss and indigestion are other factors that contribute to anemia. To get the latest stories, install our app here

4. Vitamin B12 deficiency

A deficiency of vitamin B12 may sometimes be the cause of cold hands. It aids in forming red blood cells, which are essential for blood circulation. B12 deficiency prevents these cells from producing their full potential, resulting in anemia and other circulatory system disorders, such as chilly extremities.

Vegetarians and vegans, for example, may be deficient in B12. This is because it is mostly present in animal products. To get the latest stories, install our app here

Furthermore, as people age, particularly beyond 50, the body’s ability to absorb this vitamin deteriorates. In addition, B12 insufficiency is linked to digestive issues.

Cold hands are an indication of a B12 shortage. Changing one’s diet or taking specific supplements might help restore the warmth to the hands and the body’s required rate of this microelement.

5. Thyroid problems

If the thyroid gland is malfunctioning, the hands are often cold.

We feel fatigued when the thyroid gland does not generate adequate hormones. A rise in body weight and cold hands are other possible symptoms. To get the latest stories, install our app here

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid hormone is insufficient. It may manifest itself at a later age. Thyroid surgery, iodine deficit in the body, and autoimmune illnesses may all cause it.

6. Smoking

Tobacco smoking, in whatever form, damages blood arteries throughout the body, according to US cardiologist Dr Friedman. This causes them to constrict and blood flow to be impeded. The longer you smoke, the greater the danger of damage to your heart’s blood arteries and the creation of arterial plaques.

Smokers’ hands are cold because their circulatory system isn’t working properly.

7. Low blood pressure

Hypotension may cause dizziness, coldness, and numbness in the extremities, as well as a sensation of weakness.

Low blood pressure may be caused by dehydration, blood loss, endocrine abnormalities, or certain drugs. To get the latest stories, install our app here

Blood from the extremities rushes to the critical organs when low pressure. This ensures that they function properly and support the body. This is why we get a general feeling of weakness and coldness in our limbs.

8. Drug-induced side effects

It is well known that taking medications may result in adverse effects: cold hands.

A cardiologist adds that this is because many medicines may cause vasoconstriction. Raynaud’s illness and a sense of coolness in the limbs result from this.

Some blood pressure drugs, migraine meds, and edema treatments have this adverse effect. If you have cold hands while taking medicine, see your doctor about possible equivalents or treatment adjustments.

Cold hands treatment

If the cold in your hands has become a permanent companion, the first thing you should do is see a doctor. Other illnesses that need treatment must be ruled out.

Of all, if your doctor says you’re healthy, cold extremities might be the norm for your body. Alternatively, it might be a trait of perception and personal comfort. We may, for example, believe that our hands are colder than they are. To get the latest stories, install our app here

You can keep your hands warm by doing a few things.

1. Wear mittens or gloves

When leaving home, remember to wear gloves to keep your hands warm. Also, if the gloves aren’t keeping you warm enough, MD Jay Bishop of the United States suggests looking into mittens made of natural materials.

You may go for lightweight leather or unlined fabric gloves in the spring and fall. Furthermore, they may be fashionably coupled with clothing, adding comfort and individuality to your appearance.

2. Avoid caffeine and nicotine

These vasoconstrictors may cause consistent coldness in the hands. As a result, you should avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages such as teas and energy drinks. Also, stop smoking – not only for the warmth of your hands but for your general health.

3. Maintain your inner warmth

We often get cold as a result of our cold feet. Some of us need more clothes to keep us warm. When most of the people around us have switched to thinner jackets, we wear coats and feel as comfortable as possible. This is very typical behavior. If you cannot warm up fully, it is worthwhile to warm up. Pay great attention to your footwear.

4. Make use of heated pads

Use heating pads to warm your hands to feel more comfortable. They are regular pots into which hot water and salt are placed. The latter must be cooked for a few minutes in water.

Portable heating pads are also worth considering. They’re USB-powered and have a rechargeable battery, so you can take them with you even while you’re not at home. They’re also useful when you need to fast warm-up. They may be utilized on public transportation or in your vehicle.

5. Hands massage

Hand massage increases blood flow, which adds to the warmth.

Massage your hands and each finger independently for several minutes to begin. Then, while holding your fingers at the base, vigorously massage your hands together and softly pull them. In a circular motion, rub your palms as well. To get the latest stories, install our app here

By the way, a nourishing cream may be used to complement a relaxing operation. This will not only warm your hands rapidly but will also nourish and moisturize your skin.