Having cold hands could be a sign of a serious medical issue (Image: Getty)
It’s not uncommon to struggle with cold hands in the winter. But if they are often cold despite doing all you can to stay warm indoors, then your body might be trying to tell you something isn’t right.
Several conditions might cause cold fingers and hands, such as . But if you don’t have the signature colour changes as well, then you could be dealing with something else entirely.
It might indicate you’re dealing with high cholesterol, often referred to as a ‘silent killer’. This condition is hard to detect before it turns into a real issue as it doesn’t usually present any symptoms in its early stages and the only way to confirm your situation is with a blood test from a doctor.
Often, there are a few cautionary signs you can watch out for that might give you the red flag you need to ask your GP questions about checking your cholesterol levels. You don’t necessarily need to be overweight to have high cholesterol.
The cold hands symptom is just one sign to watch out for that also affects your feet too. It’s diagnosed as a separate condition called , a cardiovascular condition recognised by the that sometimes leads onto a high cholesterol diagnosis.
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PAD can cause plaque to accumulate in the arteries of the legs and feet, a process known as atherosclerosis. This buildup can narrow or block the arteries, reducing blood flow and resulting in cold sensations in the hands and feet.
Symptoms of PAD often develop slowly over time, such as hair loss on your limbs, brittle nails, and skin with a shiny appearance. In men, this condition can result in erectile dysfunction.
If your symptoms suddenly worsen or appear quickly, it could indicate a serious issue that requires immediate medical attention. In most instances, a GP can confirm a diagnosis of PAD through a physical examination, discussing your symptoms
It may be tempting to directly heat your hands or feet with a hot water bottle or a portable heater. But if your hands and feet are numb, you might not notice if they get too hot. This could cause you to burn or injure your skin so should be avoided. A safer alternative would be to wear gloves and socks to keep yourself warm.
lists a few ways you can help to improve your circulation naturally over time. This may gradually help how your hands and feet feel as well as your overall health:
- Exercise regularly (like walking, swimming)
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Quit smoking
- Stay hydrated
- Elevate your legs when sitting
- Wear compression socks (if necessary)
- Manage stress
- Consider incorporating foods like garlic, ginger, and fatty fish into your diet