Understanding Cold Hands
It’s completely normal for your hands to feel cold occasionally. This can happen when you’re outside during the chilly winter months or sitting in a cool, air-conditioned room in summer. Cold hands are often a response to temperature changes in your environment.
When to Be Concerned
Experiencing cold hands is usually not alarming. However, if your hands feel cold all the time, it may indicate an underlying medical condition.
Do Cold Hands Indicate Illness?
When your hands are cold, the blood vessels supplying blood constrict. Dr. Ernestine A. Wright, an internal medicine physician, explains that cold temperatures or handling cold items can cause this sensation. For most, cold hands are just a temporary reaction, but persistent coldness may signal a serious health issue.
Signs to Watch For
If your hands remain cold indoors while the rest of your body is warm, consult a physician. Additionally, if cold hands are accompanied by pain or fingertip ulceration, seek medical advice from Dr. Hisham Awan, an orthopedic surgeon.
Common Causes of Cold Hands
According to the Cleveland Clinic, possible medical conditions include:
- Raynaud’s syndrome
- Hyperthyroidism
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
- Lupus
- Scleroderma
Raynaud’s syndrome, a common cause of cold hands, causes blood vessels to spasm, restricting blood flow. Triggers include cold temperatures, stress, and repetitive hand activities.
How to Warm Up Cold Hands
To manage cold hands, minimize exposure to cold environments. If you must be in a cold place, wear protective gloves or mittens. To warm your hands, soak them in warm water for 5 to 15 minutes.
Consult your primary care physician for tailored treatment based on the underlying cause of your symptoms.
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