Cold Legs Causes
Many people complain of having cold legs and feet. The symptom itself is mainly due to a lack of circulation in the lower extremities. It can be caused by a number of conditions. Effective treatment will involve determining the cause of the condition. There are preventative methods that keep people from having cold feet.
Some of the conditions that can lead to decreased peripheral circulation and cold feet include
- Smoking. Nicotine constricts the blood vessels making it harder for warm and oxygenated blood to get to the peripheries.
- Obesity. The added weight makes it harder for the heart to pump blood through the entire body effectively.
- Hypertension/Hypotension. Both conditions can affect blood circulation.
- Diabetes. The disease increases blood glucose levels making the circulating blood thicker, which can make it harder for the miniscule blood vessels to get oxygenated blood. It can also interfere with the nerve system.
- Pregnancy. The added weight and pressure on the circulatory system can lead to a constriction of the vessels in the extremities.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis. A serious condition that can come about from being in a cramped sitting position for a long time, like when sitting in an airplane seat for a long time.
Other possible causes of cold legs include improper diet, especially diets too high on salt. A lack of exercise can also lead to the symptom. The cold weather can also cause cold legs and feet as the body pools blood into the vital organs in cold environments.
Cold Legs Symptoms
Some of the symptoms associated with having cold feet include the following.
- Feet cold during sleep or throughout the day.
- Achy Feet, tired feet, or having a dull pain in feet.
- Loss of sensation or numbness. Some people may find it difficult to pick out pricks or soft touches on their feet. This is an important symptom to look out for and should be reported to a healthcare provided as soon as possible.
- Sensitivity to touch. Patients can also be very sensitive to touch.
Cold Leg Remedies and Prevention
Treating the underlying condition is very important for people who are dealing with cold feet. With diseases like diabetes and hypertension, keeping them in control is always important.
- Keep diabetes and blood pressure under control.
- Exercise regularly.
- Keep a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI).
- Walk around when on long trips or schedule walking stops when on long cross-country drives.
Cold legs and feet may also be prevented in cold weather by doing the following:
- Wearing dry warm socks. Long socks can be used to keep the legs warm.
- Wearing warm caps and mittens to bed during winter time as a lot of body heat gets lost through the head.