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With temperatures dropping across the country as autumn sets in, a pharmacist has issued a warning about an important symptom that might indicate a serious medical condition, one that can easily be mistaken for effects of the cold weather.
Feeling constantly cold might suggest a significant health problem you may not recognize, and it’s not always linked to the outside temperatures.
Niamh McMillan, Superdrug’s Pharmacy Superintendent, has pointed out the warning signs to watch in order to prevent serious health issues, according to the Mirror.
Hypothyroidism
The pharmacist explains that feeling chilly ‘constantly’ might be connected to hypothyroidism, also referred to as an underactive thyroid.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, responsible for various bodily functions like bone health, metabolism, and cellular growth, doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones.
She explained: “Hypothyroidism can slow your metabolism, reducing your overall temperature and making you feel consistently cold and very sensitive to cold environments. Other symptoms can include constipation, depression, and muscle aches.”
If you find yourself feeling cold while those around you are comfortable, especially if this is a new experience, it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider. They can check your thyroid hormone (TSH) levels to see if an underactive thyroid might be the cause.
According to the NHS, signs of an underactive thyroid may be subtle and might not be straightforward to spot. They typically emerge gradually and worsen progressively. Frequent indicators include:
- feeling extremely tired (fatigue)
- feeling cold more than usual
- putting on weight
- constipation
- difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
- low mood or depression
- dry skin, dry hair or hair loss
- a croaky (hoarse) voice
- irregular or heavy periods if you have them
Keep in mind that the NHS does say: “Some of the symptoms are common and can be caused by other conditions. But it’s important to get them checked by a GP.”
The British Thyroid Foundation provides information and assistance, including patient experiences, online discussion boards and telephone guidance. Thyroid UK also delivers information and help, including web-based forums, local support networks and phone assistance.
Raynaud’s Disease
Niamh has also cautioned about additional medical conditions that can make people feel chilly. She explains: “It’s so cold, I can’t feel my toes is a common expression used during the Winter months.
“However for those suffering from Raynaud’s Disease not being able to feel their hands or toes during colder temperatures is a reality, making them feel numb and turning either white or blue.”
She continued: “Raynaud’s Disease is a condition that causes blood vessels in the fingers and toes to narrow, restricting the blood flow to body parts, including the nose, nipples or lips.”
Anaemia
Anaemia is a condition characterised by a lack of healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen to the body’s tissues and organs, resulting in an insufficient supply of oxygen-rich blood. Symptoms can include cold hands and feet due to poor circulation, as well as fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
Niamh explains: “A common type of anaemia is linked to iron deficiency, which develops if you don’t get enough iron from food, or you have lost a lot of blood from an injury or illness.”
Type 2 Diabetes
“Diabetes can cause nerve damage in the extremities that can make you feel cold all of the time,” Niamh adds. “Additional symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, an increased need to pass urine more frequently, feeling tired and losing weight.”
If you are experiencing or concerned about any of the above conditions, it is always advisable to seek further advice from your GP.
