With the winter weather arriving in North Texas, you may notice that your feet are always cold! Sometimes cold feet come from the fact that your feet are exposed, your socks are thin or simply because it is cold outside. For those of us that have chronically cold feet, it could be something more than just not bundling up enough.
These are the four top reasons we get cold feet:
Hypothyroidism
This condition occurs when the thyroid is sluggish and does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This effects the body’s metabolism, which means the body’s internal temperature and heartbeat are also affected. This overall can cause reduced circulation and colder feet. Hypothyroidism can also cause hair-loss, weight gain, depression and fatigue. It is important to see your primary care physician, they will likely start with some simple blood work.
Poor Circulation
Poor circulation can make it hard for your body to get enough blood to your feet. Circulation problems can be a result of a heart condition, smoking or leading a sedentary lifestyle.
Type 1 and 2 Diabetes
Diabetes can cause feet that are cold to the touch. It can also cause numbness and tingling in the feet. It is important to see your podiatrist if you do have Diabetes, as cracks and ulcers in the skin of the feet can otherwise go unnoticed due to decreased feeling.
Anemia
This develops when you have a shortage of red blood cells. Decreased red blood cells means less blood circulation through the feet. Iron deficiency anemia can occur in otherwise healthy people too. It is important to see your doctor for evaluation, often starting with a simple blood test.
It is also important to be on the lookout for sores on the feet that take a long time to heal, weight changes, joint pain and fatigue.
If you have noticed cold feet, you should absolutely bring it up during your next doctor’s visit. The physicians at Foot and Ankle Associates of North Texas can help!
Locations:
2421 Ira E Woods Avenue #100 Grapevine, TX 76051
816 Keller Parkway #101 Keller, TX 76248