Are you someone whose hands and feet are always cold? Having cold hands and feet in the winter season is a common phenomenon. Our bodies are designed to regulate our temperature. When it’s cold outside, the body ensures that blood circulation is average and reaches vital organs to keep them warm. If it doesn’t happen, it changes the blood flow to your hands and feet, making them cold. It so happens that your blood vessels constrict during the cold to prevent heat loss. However, always cold hands could mean there’s a problem with blood flow or blood vessels in your hands. Causes of cold hands may include frostbite, anemia, diabetes, lupus, etc.
Meanwhile, some people naturally tend to have colder feet and hands without underlying diseases. It is common; if you have it, you must take extra precautions to protect them in cold weather. However, if you see any other signs apart from coldness, you can do more than what you are doing. Meanwhile, some people work in cold environments, like meat packers or others who spend time in freezers, military personnel, utility, rescue workers, etc., who need protective gear to keep them warm as these environments carry the risk of damage and frostbite. Research is ongoing on whether a cold work environment can make you more accustomed to it and help avoid injury.
Protect Your Hands and Feet
- Be mindful of your clothes
No matter what causes your hands and feet to remain cold, it is crucial to keep them warm. Wear socks, slippers, gloves, or warm clothes in cold weather. Irrespective of the weather, you can wear it to comfort your hands and feet.
- Exercise every day
Physical activity, or simply walking, is vital to improve blood circulation.
- Move around
Sitting in one place for long hours without any movement. A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, etc.
- Regular stretch and warmup
Stretching muscles after being fixated on one position for long hours is good. Make circles in the air with fingers, hands, and feet for blood flow.
- Gentle Massage
Briskly massage your hands and feet.
- Hold something warm
Holding a mug with warm fluids in your hands.
- Avoid direct contact with frozen stuff
Stay away or use gloves when using the frozen section at a grocery store or at home.
Besides precautions, understanding the exact reason behind cold hands and feet is essential. Reach out to healthcare practitioners for diagnosis and treatment options.
