Sensation of Cold
It is not uncommon for individuals to feel cold even when the environment is warm. This sensation may prompt them to don woolen garments and wrap themselves in blankets. This feeling can last for a brief period, such as a few minutes, or extend for several hours, leading to both physical and emotional exhaustion. To alleviate sudden cold sensations, it is important to identify their underlying causes, which we will explore in this article.
Causes of Feeling Cold
- Significant Weight Loss: Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of around 18.5 or lower often experience feelings of coldness. This is primarily due to an insufficient amount of body fat, making them more vulnerable to even slight drafts.
- Hypothyroidism: A common reason for feeling cold could be related to deficiencies in thyroid function. When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, metabolic processes slow down, preventing the body from generating adequate heat.
- Insufficient Iron Levels: Chronic feelings of coldness often stem from low iron levels. Iron plays a crucial role in helping red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body, along with heat and other essential nutrients to every cell.
- Poor Circulation: When an individual’s extremities feel cold while the body remains warm, it may indicate poor blood circulation, which fails to supply the necessary warmth.
- Lack of Sleep: Sleep deprivation can adversely affect an individual’s nervous system and disrupt the brain’s regulatory mechanisms, ultimately impacting the body’s temperature control and causing unexpected cold sensations.
- Dehydration: Approximately 60% of the human body is composed of water, which plays a key role in temperature regulation. Adequate hydration helps maintain stable body temperature; however, dehydration can lead to fluctuations in temperature, resulting in feelings of cold or heat.
- Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes can lead to a condition known as peripheral neuropathy, which progressively damages the nerves responsible for sensation in the hands and feet. As the condition advances, individuals may experience numbness, pain, and subsequently, an increased sensation of cold.
- Infections in Wounds: After undergoing a surgical procedure, a person may develop an infection, which can trigger feelings of coldness. Addressing the infection is essential for restoring normal body temperature.