If you have cold hands and feet when the rest of you is warm, it could be a signal of a heart problem.
“Poor circulation may be the issue and depending on symptoms and your health history, it might require evaluation from a medical provider,” said Ashley Davis, Marshfield Clinic Health System cardiology nurse practitioner.
The problem with poor circulation
Poor circulation may be an early indicator of blockages in peripheral blood vessels in your arms and legs. Much like the coronary arteries near the heart, peripheral vessels are also prone to narrowing because of buildup of plaque in the artery walls.
When that happens, it’s harder for your blood to bring oxygen and nutrients to tissues in your arms and legs.
Fortunately, this condition can be reversed.
Risk factors and lifestyle changes
Risk factors that can impair circulation are smoking, high cholesterol levels and sedentary lifestyle.
“Reducing smoking, or better yet, quitting, can help,” said Davis. “We also recommend getting cholesterol levels in range and walking/exercising if it is approved by your doctor.”
Peripheral vessel issues are compounded for people with diabetes, who usually have other circulation issues.
Cold hands and feet can also be caused by:
- A congenital abnormality like a hole in the heart
- A side effect to certain medications
- A rare condition known as Raynaud phenomenon
With Raynaud phenomenon, which occurs in only 3-5 percent of people, blood vessels can become severely constricted by a trigger, like exposure to cold air or water, or emotional or physical stress.
What to do if you’re concerned
If you experience cold hands and feet regularly, contact your primary care physician to get the conversation started.
It may lead to medications to treat peripheral arterial disease. It could also result in relief and peace of mind.
“Just because you have cold hands or feet does not necessarily mean there is a problem,” said Davis. “It’s normal to have them every now and then. Keep tabs on the issue and if it happens often, we encourage you to talk to your doctor.”
For questions about cold feet and hands, talk to a Marshfield Clinic Health System provider.
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