As the UK experiences a drop in temperatures, the onset of winter brings a pervasive chill to daily life. Amidst the seasonal shift from autumn, a pharmacist has cautioned about a potential health concern often overlooked due to the cold weather.
Persistent feelings of coldness could signal an underlying health issue unrelated to external conditions. Niamh McMillan, the Pharmacy Superintendent at Superdrug, has highlighted key indicators to watch for in order to prevent more severe health complications.
McMillan emphasized that a perpetual sensation of being cold might be indicative of hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid. This condition arises when the thyroid gland fails to produce adequate thyroid hormones, impacting functions such as metabolism, bone health, and cell growth.
She explained, “Hypothyroidism can slow down metabolism, leading to a decrease in overall body temperature, resulting in a constant feeling of coldness and heightened sensitivity to cold environments. Other associated symptoms may include constipation, depression, and muscle soreness.”
If you find yourself persistently cold while others remain comfortable, especially if this is a novel sensation for you, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable. Testing thyroid hormone levels (TSH) can help determine if an underactive thyroid is the underlying cause.
According to the NHS, symptoms of an underactive thyroid can be subtle and may progress gradually over time. While some symptoms may overlap with other conditions, it is crucial to seek evaluation from a GP. The British Thyroid Foundation and Thyroid UK offer resources, including patient accounts, online forums, and support hotlines.
McMillan also highlighted other health conditions that can induce feelings of coldness. For individuals with Raynaud’s Disease, experiencing numbness in extremities like hands and toes during colder temperatures is a common occurrence due to restricted blood flow caused by narrowed blood vessels.
Moreover, anaemia, characterized by insufficient healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen effectively, can manifest as cold hands and feet due to poor circulation. Symptoms may also include fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, and breathlessness, with iron deficiency being a prevalent cause.
“Diabetes can lead to nerve damage in limbs, resulting in constant cold sensations,” noted McMillan. Additional symptoms of diabetes encompass increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.
For concerns related to any of the mentioned conditions, seeking advice from a GP is recommended to receive appropriate care and guidance.