If you’re perpetually bundled up in layers and can’t seem to get warm, you might be wondering why. While a cool environment could be the culprit, there are various health-related reasons why you might feel cold all the time. In this article, we explore nine potential reasons for your consistent chilliness, ranging from nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions, to lifestyle factors. Understanding these causes could be your first step towards finding a solution and feeling warm again.
When you’re persistently cold, it’s essential to remember that your body might be trying to tell you something about your overall health, and it’s worth paying attention to these signals.
1. Anemia
Anemia occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin, which is responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues in the body. When these levels are low, your body is not receiving enough oxygen, leaving you feeling cold and fatigued. Anemia can also cause other symptoms such as weakness and dizziness. If you suspect that you might have anemia, it’s essential to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
2. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, leading to a slower metabolism. One of the common symptoms of hypothyroidism is feeling cold all the time as your body produces less heat. Other symptoms include weight gain, fatigue, and dry skin. If you suspect you have an underactive thyroid, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
3. Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 is vital for maintaining healthy nerve cells, producing red blood cells, and DNA synthesis. A lack of this essential vitamin can lead to anemia, causing you to feel cold and sluggish. People at higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency include vegetarians and vegans as this vitamin is primarily found in animal-based products. If you suspect you have a deficiency, consider incorporating more B12-rich foods into your diet or taking supplements prescribed by your doctor.
4. Low body weight
Having a low body weight can also make you feel cold all the time. This is because your body doesn’t have enough insulation to keep you warm, and it has to work harder to maintain a stable internal temperature. If you’re underweight, consider speaking with a healthcare professional about ways to safely gain weight and improve your overall health.
5. Raynaud’s disease
Raynaud’s disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels, causing them to narrow and limiting blood flow to certain areas of the body. This can result in cold hands and feet, making you feel chilly all the time. In severe cases, it may also cause numbness or pain in your extremities. While there is no cure for Raynaud’s disease, you can manage symptoms by keeping warm and avoiding triggers such as stress and cold temperatures.
6. Poor circulation
Poor circulation can also contribute to feeling cold all the time, as it limits blood flow to your extremities. This may be caused by various factors such as smoking, diabetes, and certain medications. Regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing any underlying conditions can help improve circulation and reduce feelings of constant coldness.
7. Insufficient calorie intake
Not consuming enough calories can also make you feel cold all the time. Your body needs fuel to generate heat, and when it doesn’t get enough, it conserves energy by reducing blood flow to your skin and extremities, making you feel chilly. If you’re not meeting your daily recommended caloric intake, consult a registered dietitian to develop a healthy and balanced meal plan.
8. Anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that can cause extreme weight loss and malnutrition. As with low body weight, having a low body mass index (BMI) means you have less insulation to keep you warm. Additionally, starvation also slows down metabolism, making it challenging to generate body heat. If you suspect you or a loved one has anorexia nervosa, seek professional help immediately.
9. Stress and anxiety
Feeling cold all the time can also be caused by chronic stress and anxiety. When your body experiences stress, it triggers a fight-or-flight response that diverts blood flow away from your extremities and towards essential organs. This can cause a drop in body temperature, making you feel cold. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and seeking help for underlying anxiety disorders can help reduce this symptom.
10. Dehydration
Dehydration can sometimes leave you feeling cold. When your body doesn’t have enough water, it can struggle to maintain its normal temperature. Symptoms of dehydration include being thirsty, feeling tired or sleepy, having a dry mouth, lips, and eyes, peeing fewer than 4 times a day, and feeling dizzy or lightheaded. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating foods high in water can help combat dehydration.
Related: 10 Potential Causes for Persistent Cold Feet
11. Diabetes
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to a condition known as diabetic neuropathy, where high blood sugar levels damage nerves in the body, particularly in the feet and hands, leading to a sensation of coldness. Other symptoms can include numbness, tingling, or pain. Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels and managing diabetes effectively can help to prevent or slow the progression of neuropathy.
Strategies for Dealing with Persistent Chills
If you’re feeling chilly all the time, try incorporating these strategies into your daily routine:
- Dress in layers: Layering your clothing can help trap heat and keep you warm.
- Stay active: Regular exercise not only helps improve circulation but also generates body heat.
- Eat a balanced diet: Consuming enough calories and essential nutrients can help improve energy levels and maintain a healthy body weight.
- Keep your extremities warm: Invest in warm gloves, socks, and shoes to keep your hands and feet insulated.
- Use a space heater or heated blanket: These can be useful for keeping you warm while sitting at a desk or relaxing at home.
- Manage stress: Try incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation into your routine to reduce stress levels.
- Consult a doctor: If your constant coldness is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
By understanding the potential causes of feeling cold all the time and implementing strategies to manage them, you can improve your overall well-being and feel more comfortable in colder temperatures. Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment if you’re experiencing persistent chills. Stay warm and take care of yourself! Take care of your body, stay healthy, and keep those chills at bay!
