Experiencing cold hands and feet is a common issue that many people face, especially during the winter season. A pharmacist has recently discussed why this happens and how to prevent it.
The Met Office has issued an amber alert for Britain due to heavy rain, floods, and strong winds, making the temperatures feel colder than they are. It is normal for extremities like hands and feet to feel cold in significantly colder weather. However, persistent coldness in these areas could indicate underlying health concerns.
Dr. Chris, also known as ‘DrChrisPharmD,’ a Doctor of Pharmacy with a large following on TikTok, shared insights on why hands and feet often feel cold. He explained how poor circulation, often linked to low iron levels, can cause this sensation.
Iron plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen through the blood, and when iron levels drop, the body may feel colder, particularly in the hands and feet. To address this, Dr. Chris suggests consuming iron-rich foods like liver, which contains easily absorbable Heme iron. Alternatively, taking iron supplements with this type of iron can help if consuming liver is not preferred.
Besides circulation issues, cold hands and feet could signal other health problems such as heart-related conditions, peripheral artery disease, or side effects of certain medications. Conditions like thyroid disorders, diabetes, anemia, anxiety, or stress can also contribute to cold extremities.
Raynaud’s disease is another common condition that causes fingers, toes, and ears to turn white or blue and become numb in response to cold temperatures. If cold hands and feet persist even in warm environments, or if additional symptoms like tingling, numbness, or ulcers occur, seeking medical advice is recommended.
It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you experience ongoing coldness in your hands and feet, as it could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
