What To Do About Cold Intolerance

Many people are intolerant to cold weather. A random survey of people over 18 years old showed that in excess of 50 percent reported that their extremities were often sensitive to cold. Many people have extreme sensitivity and often discover that their fingers and toes can turn blue. This problem gets worse with age. Winters can be horrible for many seniors. They are often very cold even during normal temperatures. There are several reasons for intolerance to cold and when it is severe it may require medical attention. But when it is not severe, and when medical illness has been ruled out, those with intolerance to cold may find that with some effort they take measures to stay warm. What are a few of the medical causes of cold intolerance? Reasons include anemia, hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia or vasoconstriction. Raynaud's phenomenon for example is a vasospastic disorder which can cause discoloration of the toes and fingers. Raynaud's phenomenon is thought to be due to hyperactivity of the sympathetic system. This can lead to vasoconstriction of the peripheral vasculature. In extreme cases it can cause, tissue hypoxia, or lack of oxygen supply to some areas of the body. When it is chronic it can even result in skin atrophy, or decrease in the layers of the skin. But not all cases of a cold sensitivity is due to a medical condition. Some people are intolerant to cold and they can find that there is no medical reason or appropriate treatment for their condition that will help them. For these people, staying warm can be a challenge and frustration. Intolerance to cold can lead to inability to sleep and eventually stress related illnesses. Chronically cold fingers and toes can be very uncomfortable. Nevertheless if you are extremely sensitive to cold, check with your health care provider to rule out any medical disorder. What steps can you take if you do not have an clinical illness which can be diagnosed and treated? One answer is to cover up exposed skin. In the winter wear sleepwear with wicking properties in order to reduce perspiration or moisture against the skin which can give a cold and clammy feeling. Some people may even find that they are more comfortable wearing clothes which cover them from head to toe. A once piece outfit such as long underwear or one-piece pajamas can help to channel the body warmth which is generated from the upper part of the body, down to the feet and toes and help to keep them as warm as possible. In extreme cases, battery operated mittens and slippers may help to generate the heat that the body is not able to provide.