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.