Symptom 7. Cold Hands and Feet: The Chilly Consequence of Anemia
Cold hands and feet can also be a sign of severe anemia. This symptom arises due to poor circulation, a consequence of the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. When you’re anemic, your heart works harder to pump blood throughout the body. Despite its efforts, the reduced volume of red blood cells often leads to poor circulation, especially in the extremities.
This poor circulation manifests as cold hands and feet, which can be particularly pronounced in cold weather or in cold environments. The skin might also appear pale, another sign of poor circulation. In some severe cases, the fingertips may even turn blue, a condition known as cyanosis.
While everyone experiences cold hands and feet occasionally, persistent cold extremities could be a sign of an underlying health issue like severe anemia. It’s essential not to dismiss this symptom, especially if it’s accompanied by other signs of anemia like fatigue or paleness.
Fortunately, treating the underlying anemia can often alleviate this symptom. With improved blood oxygen levels, circulation can be restored, and the extremities can regain their normal temperature. If your extremities are persistently cold despite warm surroundings, it could be your body’s way of saying it needs more oxygen. It’s a wake-up call you must answer. Proper diagnosis and treatment could restore the warmth and vitality to your hands and feet. (7)
