Chronically cold feet may point to underlying condition

Do your feet always feel cold, even when it’s not chilly outside? While cold weather can be a common cause, persistent cold feet might point to something more — like circulatory issues, immune problems or nerve disorders.

Dr. Jesse Bracamonte, a Mayo Clinic family medicine physician, says it’s important to seek medical advice if the condition persists. Getting evaluated can help identify and treat any underlying health conditions.

Sometimes, cold feet simply mean you need warmer socks. But if your feet are always cold, no matter the weather, it might be something more.

“Anything from circulatory problems, not having adequate blood flow, heart condition problems, immune or autoimmune conditions such as like having thyroid disease, and sometimes nerve or neuropathic problems. Having nerve disorders can cause cold feet,” said Bracamonte.

Where to start? He offers a few immediate steps.

“Warm socks, lifting your feet, staying hydrated, diet, nutrition is really important. Exercise is important. And, obviously, if you smoke, don’t smoke,” he said.

If your feet remain to feel cold but are not cold to the touch, it might be time to see your health care team.

“There are certain tests that it can easily be done to ensure that you have no circulatory issues, and a few blood tests may be warranted just to make sure you have no autoimmune issues or even signs of anemia,” Bracamonte said.