Cold Hands & Feet: Causes & When to See a Doctor

What Is Cold Hands & Feet?

Having cold hands and feet is common and usually harmless, caused by your body conserving heat by reducing blood flow to extremities. However, persistently cold extremities, especially with color changes, numbness, or sores, may indicate circulation problems or conditions like Raynaud's disease.

Common Causes of Cold Hands & Feet

• Cold environments
• Raynaud's disease
• Poor circulation
• Anemia
• Hypothyroidism
• Peripheral artery disease

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor if you always have cold extremities, fingers or toes change color (white, blue), you develop sores on fingers or toes, or if cold extremities are a new symptom accompanied by other changes.

Warning Signs That Need Immediate Attention

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my hands and feet always cold?

Persistently cold extremities are commonly caused by Raynaud's disease, poor circulation, anemia, or thyroid problems. Women are more frequently affected. If it is persistent, blood tests can help identify the cause.

What is Raynaud's disease?

Raynaud's causes blood vessels in fingers and toes to overreact to cold, turning them white, then blue, then red. Episodes are triggered by cold or stress. It is uncomfortable but usually manageable with lifestyle changes.

Can anemia cause cold hands and feet?

Yes, iron-deficiency anemia reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, which can cause cold extremities, fatigue, and pale skin. A simple blood test can check for anemia, and treatment is usually straightforward.

How do I warm up cold hands and feet?

Layer up with insulated gloves and socks, use hand warmers, keep your core warm, stay active to boost circulation, and avoid smoking. For Raynaud's, gradual warming prevents painful rebound after cold exposure.

How much does circulation testing cost?

Blood tests for thyroid and anemia cost $50-$200. Vascular studies cost $200-$800. A vascular specialist visit costs $200-$500. OpenMyPro helps you find affordable diagnostic care.

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