Feeling unusually cold, even in comfortable temperatures? While chilly hands or a shiver here and there can be normal, persistent coldness might signal an underlying health issue. Various conditions, from thyroid imbalances to circulation problems, can leave you feeling colder than usual. Here are a few tips from your local drug store in Powell, TN, regarding why you always feel cold and what you can do to help resolve it.
Symptoms Triggered By Feeling Cold
If you are feeling the cold more than usual, it may be accompanied by some physical symptoms that could indicate that your body is struggling to regulate your temperature or cannot handle the cold you are currently feeling. Some of these symptoms might include:
- Pain
- Tingling and/or Numbness
- Chills
- Stiffness
- Weakness
- Swelling
- Changes in Skin Color
- General Discomfort
Common Health Concerns That Could Leave You Feeling Cold
Let’s explore common health concerns that could contribute to your constant chill and offer insights into possible solutions.
Anemia
One of the most common health conditions that can cause you to feel unusually cold is Anemia. In this condition, your body is not producing enough red blood cells to efficiently carry oxygen through the body. In addition to feeling cold, you may also experience fatigue, a pale complexion, and a fast heartbeat. In most cases, you can combat Anemia by increasing iron-rich foods in your diet or taking iron supplements from your local drug store in Powell, TN. However, in extreme cases, and for certain types of Anemia, you may need more medical intervention, including prescription medications and blood transfusions.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid is a gland at the base of the neck that helps control your metabolism. If it is not producing enough thyroid hormone, or if your body is not processing it effectively, you are likely to develop hypothyroidism. In addition to making you feel cold, some of the other symptoms include thinning hair, dry skin, fatigue, and unusual weight gain. This is treated by taking a replacement hormone daily. You can manage this prescription with help from your local drug store in Powell, TN.
Blood Vessel Problems
If the cold you are feeling seems to be concentrated on your extremities, you could have a blood vessel problem. There are a number of conditions that cause blood flow to be restricted, including clotting disorders, arteriosclerosis, and Raynaud’s phenomenon. These may be characterized by hands and feet turning white or blue, tingling or numbness in arms and legs, and clammy or cold skin.
Diabetes
If you are living with diabetes, you are at an increased risk of kidney damage, specifically diabetic nephropathy, which is often characterized by feeling cold. Other symptoms include nausea, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, confusion, and swelling of the face, feet and hands. It is important to manage your diabetes carefully in order to avoid nephropathy and other complications. Ask your local drug store in Powell, TN, if you need any advice or support in managing diabetes.
Low BMI
A low body mass index (BMI) indicates lower body fat, which could leave you feeling colder than those with higher BMI levels. Body fat acts as insulation and muscle generates warmth—so without enough of either, staying warm can be challenging. A BMI below 18.5 can also impact your body’s normal functions, possibly leading to issues like:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Difficulty conceiving
- Brittle bones
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Mood changes, like depression
However, BMI alone doesn’t always determine if someone is underweight or at risk of health issues. You may have a low BMI and still maintain good health.
Symptoms of being underweight include:
- Constant fatigue
- Low blood pressure and heart rate
- Low blood sugar levels
- Night sweats
- Cold extremities
- Muscle discomfort
Vitmain B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 is essential to the body as it helps to produce red blood cells, nerves, DNA, and is also involved in a wide variety of body functions. If you are deficient in Vitamin B12, one of the first symptoms that you may notice is feeling cold all of the time. Other symptoms include muscle weakness, difficulty walking, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, numbness, and fast heart rate. Vitamin B12 can only be absorbed from animal products, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products, so if you are following a vegan diet, it is essential that you take a B12 supplement since it is not available from plant-based foods. Even if you are a meat eater, you may still find you are not absorbing enough in which case you will also want to ask your local drug store in Powell, TN, about a B12 supplement.
In conclusion, feeling persistently cold can be more than just a discomfort—it may signal an underlying health concern that needs attention. Various factors can contribute to your sensitivity to cold temperatures, from Anemia and hypothyroidism to blood vessel issues and vitamin deficiencies. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the potential health implications are crucial steps toward finding relief. If you frequently experience coldness, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, your local drug store in Powell, TN, can provide valuable resources and guidance to help manage your symptoms effectively. Taking proactive steps can lead to improved comfort and overall well-being.
Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966
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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!
(865) 947-1581