"Why Am I Always Cold?" – Causes of Cold Intolerance

Cold intolerance is frustrating. When everyone else is excited about fall and “sweater weather,” some of us are simply shivering and wishing for warmth.

If it feels like no amount of wool can warm you up and you’re wondering why you’re constantly cold, Covenant Health has some answers. Robert Wilson, MD, a family medicine physician with Covenant Medical Group’s Roane County Family Practice, explains that there may be more to your chill than meets the eye.

“If you often find yourself bundled up while everyone else seems comfortable, you may be dealing with cold intolerance,” Dr. Wilson says. “This feeling of being unusually cold could be more than just a quirk. It could indicate an underlying health issue.”

What is Cold Intolerance?

Cold intolerance is a heightened sensitivity to cool temperatures, especially when your sense of being cold doesn’t match those around you.

“If others in the same room are dressed similarly to you and are comfortable, but you feel cold or are shivering, you might have cold intolerance,” Dr. Wilson explains.

Imagine being in a room with a too-cool thermostat or stepping outside on a brisk day without a jacket. For most people, grabbing a blanket or an extra layer to wear can help, but for those with cold intolerance, warming up might take more effort.

What Causes Cold Intolerance?

Dr. Wilson says several types of health concerns can be connected to cold intolerance.

Thyroid Problems

A common cause of cold intolerance is hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to regulate metabolism and body temperature. When the thyroid is underactive, metabolism slows down, leading to lower body temperature and increased cold sensitivity.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism can also include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin and constipation. A simple blood test can check your thyroid hormone levels.

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen through the body. A lack of iron can lead to a lack of healthy red blood cells and not enough oxygen in the blood, causing symptoms like fatigue, weakness and cold hands or feet. Iron deficiency anemia can result from a poor diet, blood loss (such as from heavy menstrual periods), or absorption issues.

Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s disease affects blood vessels in the fingers and toes, causing them to overreact to cold or stress. The blood vessels narrow, limiting blood flow and causing fingers or toes to turn white or blue and to feel cold or numb. While Raynaud’s has no cure, managing stress and avoiding cold exposure can help control symptoms.

Low Body Weight

If you’re underweight, you may have less body fat for insulation. This cause of cold intolerance is particularly common in people who live with eating disorders that lead to unhealthy weight loss, including a drop in metabolism. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating enough calories, and addressing any disordered eating can help manage this sensitivity.

Poor Circulation

If your hands and feet are often colder than the rest of your body, poor circulation could be the cause. Conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) or dehydration can reduce blood flow, leading to that cold touch. Staying hydrated and addressing circulatory issues can improve blood flow and may reduce cold sensitivity.

Diabetes

Uncontrolled diabetes can cause nerve damage, or peripheral neuropathy, which affects temperature perception. People with diabetic neuropathy may feel cold, especially in their feet, even when the temperature is normal. Proper blood sugar control through diet, exercise and medication is essential to avoid complications.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is vital for nerve function and blood health. Deficiency can lead to anemia and poor circulation, increasing cold intolerance.

How to Deal With Cold Intolerance

Here are some tips to help stay warm and manage cold intolerance:

• Dress in layers. Layering traps body heat, providing insulation on cold days.
• Eat a balanced diet. Include iron-rich and B12-rich foods to boost circulation and energy.
• Get moving. Physical activity generates heat and improves circulation.
• Don’t smoke. Smoking constricts blood vessels, worsening cold sensitivity.
• Manage stress. Stress can restrict blood flow, especially with conditions like Raynaud’s.

When to See a Doctor

Occasional cold sensitivity may not be a concern, but if you’re frequently cold or it affects your quality of life, it’s worth consulting your healthcare provider. Depending on the cause of your cold sensitivity, tests or treatments may be recommended.

“If you are sick, have a fever, have shaking chills and can’t get warm no matter what you do, this is likely related to an infection, not cold intolerance,” Dr. Wilson adds. “In this case, see a doctor as soon as possible.”

Don’t wait to get warm. Covenant Health can help you find a primary care provider, and offers assessments, diagnostics and treatment to help you manage cold intolerance and stay comfortable all year long.