Cold Hands and Feet: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help

Numbness and coldness in the hands and feet?

Hello Doctor: Since childhood, I have easily experienced cold hands and feet.
I am currently eighteen years old and preparing for university entrance exams in my senior year of high school.
I have been maintaining a posture of looking down while studying for long periods and often go to bed late (around 12:30 to 1:00 AM).
Last month, my menstrual period was missed (it just came this month), and I have developed eczema on my face and feet (which has been common since starting high school).

Symptoms: About a month ago, after running in physical education class, I experienced cold hands and feet, and my palms felt numb.
The numbness can last anywhere from ten minutes to two or three hours.
Recently, while writing with my head down, my hands occasionally feel numb as well, with varying durations, and the longer episodes can last for several hours.

I would like to ask the doctor if this condition could be due to peripheral blood circulation issues, nerve compression, or possibly an autoimmune disease.
Should I seek medical attention?

Jessie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/08

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology

Dear Jessie, the symptoms you experience after exercising indicate that your body is redirecting blood circulation to the central areas, sacrificing circulation in your extremities.
It is evident that your usual blood pressure is on the lower side.
There is no need for medical attention due to lack of exercise; however, you need to change your lifestyle and increase outdoor physical activity.

Reply Date: 2016/04/08

More Info

Cold hands and feet can be a common complaint, especially among young individuals like yourself. There are several potential causes for this condition, and understanding them can help you determine whether you need to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes of Cold Hands and Feet
1. Poor Circulation: One of the most common reasons for cold extremities is poor blood circulation. This can be due to various factors, including prolonged sitting or standing, particularly in a hunched position while studying. When blood flow is restricted, it can lead to feelings of coldness in the hands and feet.

2. Nerve Compression: Your description of experiencing numbness or tingling in your hands, especially when writing or reading, suggests that there might be some nerve compression involved. This can occur due to poor posture, which can put pressure on the nerves in your arms and hands, leading to symptoms like numbness and coldness.

3. Raynaud's Phenomenon: This condition causes some areas of your body, usually your fingers and toes, to feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress. It is characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow, which can lead to color changes in the skin and a sensation of coldness.

4. Hormonal Changes: Since you mentioned that your menstrual cycle has been irregular, hormonal fluctuations could also play a role in your symptoms. Hormones can affect blood flow and circulation, and changes in your menstrual cycle can sometimes lead to symptoms like cold extremities.

5. Anxiety and Stress: The stress of preparing for college entrance exams can lead to physical symptoms, including cold hands and feet. Anxiety can cause your body to enter a fight-or-flight response, which may divert blood flow away from your extremities, making them feel cold.

6. Skin Conditions: The eczema you mentioned could also contribute to your symptoms. Skin conditions can sometimes affect blood flow and sensation in the affected areas.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially if:
- The coldness in your hands and feet is persistent and not improving with changes in posture or activity.

- You experience significant numbness or tingling that lasts for extended periods.

- You notice any changes in the color of your fingers or toes, such as turning white or blue.

- You have other concerning symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or changes in your skin.

What You Can Do
In the meantime, there are several strategies you can implement to help alleviate your symptoms:
- Improve Posture: Make sure to maintain good posture while studying. Take regular breaks to stretch and move around to promote circulation.

- Stay Warm: Dress in layers and keep your hands and feet warm, especially during colder months.

- Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage stress and anxiety.

- Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and eating a balanced diet, as this can impact circulation and overall health.

In conclusion, while cold hands and feet can be a benign issue, they can also indicate underlying health concerns. Given your age and the symptoms you've described, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider who can perform a thorough evaluation and provide personalized recommendations.

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