Cold Hands and Feet

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Other names for Cold Hands and Feet

Peripheral Coldness
Extremity Cold Sensation
Poor Peripheral Perfusion
Cold Extremities

Synopsis of Cold Hands and Feet

Cold hands and feet refer to a common symptom in which the extremities feel colder than the rest of the body, even in moderate environments. While this is often harmless and temporary (e.g., due to cold weather or anxiety), persistent or frequent coldness can be a sign of poor circulation, nerve dysfunction, or underlying medical conditions such as Raynaud’s phenomenon, hypothyroidism, anemia, or diabetes. The temperature in extremities is regulated by blood flow; when circulation is restricted or nerve signals are disrupted, the hands and feet may feel chronically cold.

This symptom is more common in women and can also be influenced by body composition, stress levels, and hormonal changes. Understanding and addressing the root cause is important when coldness becomes persistent or uncomfortable.

Types (Underlying Categories):

  • Vascular-Related: Raynaud’s disease, atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease (PAD).

  • Nervous System-Related: Peripheral neuropathy, spinal cord issues, or nerve compression.

  • Hormonal/Metabolic: Hypothyroidism, adrenal fatigue, low metabolism.

  • Blood-Related: Anemia, low blood pressure, chronic dehydration.

Common Causes:

  • Cold temperatures (normal response)

  • Poor peripheral circulation

  • Raynaud’s phenomenon

  • Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function)

  • Anemia (low red blood cell count)

  • Low blood pressure

  • Diabetes (especially with nerve damage)

  • Smoking (vasoconstriction)

  • Anxiety or stress (causing blood vessel constriction)

  • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, scleroderma)

Severity Factors:

  • Mild/Benign: Comes and goes, no additional symptoms.

  • Moderate: Accompanied by numbness, color changes (white or blue), or tingling.

  • Severe: Skin ulcers, tissue damage, or constant symptoms may indicate a serious vascular or nerve condition.

When to See a Doctor:

  • Persistent or worsening coldness despite warming efforts

  • Color changes in fingers or toes (white, blue, or purple)

  • Numbness, tingling, or pain in hands/feet

  • Open sores or delayed wound healing

  • Symptoms worsening in cold or stress

  • Known underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, autoimmune disease)

Natural remedies for Cold Hands and Feet

Wear warm clothing: Gloves, socks, and layers help retain body heat.

Exercise regularly: Enhances circulation, particularly in the extremities.

Warm soaks: Place hands/feet in warm water for relief.

Massage: Stimulates blood flow to the extremities.

Avoid smoking and caffeine: Both restrict blood flow.

Hydration: Supports blood volume and vessel health.

Reduce stress: Practice mindfulness or breathing exercises to reduce vasoconstriction.

Iron-rich diet: Support red blood cell production if anemia is a factor.