With winter approaching, you may not find it surprising if your feet get a little chilly from time to time. Sometimes, though, it can have a more serious cause, so it’s a good idea to be aware of some possible reasons for having cold feet.
- Raynaud’s phenomenon
This is one of the more common problems that can lead to cold feet. It’s also known as Raynaud’s disease or syndrome, and affects thousands of people in the United States alone. It causes a temporary spasm in the blood vessels in your feet.
- This condition usually affects your toes, and you may notice them changing color. If your toes are white or blue, see your podiatrist.
- As well as cold weather, Raynaud’s phenomenon can also be triggered if you have been under a lot of stress or feeling very anxious recently.
- Peripheral vascular disease
This condition, also called peripheral arterial disease, affects the blood vessels in your feet. Unlike Raynaud’s phenomenon, which usually only causes numbness or tingling, peripheral vascular disease can be quite painful.
- Because PVD limits blood supply to the arteries in your legs, you may find that minor injuries heal more slowly than you would expect.
- The skin around your feet may gain a bluish or shiny appearance, while you may also notice your toenails becoming brittle and crumbly.
- Peripheral neuropathy
Diabetes is one of the most common medical conditions among Americans, affecting tens of millions nationwide. It can lead to a wide variety of complications, but one that is commonly experienced is peripheral neuropathy – damage to the nerves in your toes and fingers.
- Cold feet that remain slightly numb or tingly at the extremities even after you warm up may be a sign that you have peripheral neuropathy.
- If you think you may have this condition, even if you don’t think you’re diabetic, schedule an appointment with a doctor, who will be able to give you more information.