Cold intolerance: why am I so sensitive to cold?
Cold intolerance is basically sensitivity to cold temperatures. Some people do not enjoy cold temperatures, but those experiencing cold intolerance find it even more difficult to achieve a comfortable body temperature regardless of the situation.
People with cold intolerance most of the time feel cold when other people are comfortable or even warm. Some people naturally tend to feel colder than others, without any discernible cause. However, cold intolerance can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
How the body maintains its core internal temperature?
Our internal body temperature is regulated by a part of our brain called the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus checks our current temperature and compares it with the normal temperature of about 37°C (98°F).
If our temperature is too low, the hypothalamus makes sure that the body generates and maintains heat. If our current body temperature is too high, heat is given off or sweat is produced to cool the skin.
The hypothalamus also directs the thyroid gland to increase or decrease your body’s metabolism, therefore the thyroid’s health plays a crucial part of this regulation. The thyroid has to be functioning properly to burn calories in the body to create heat and fuel.
Your blood flow, which helps to maintain the body’s temperature, are also important. It helps spread the heat, and your body fat.
What causes cold intolerance?
Some causes of cold intolerance are:
Hypothyroidism
Anaemia
Lack of vitamin B12
Fibromyalgia
Poor Circulation
Lack of Sleep
Diabetes
Raynaud’s disease
Anorexia nervosa
Disorders of the hypothalamus
Malnutrition
Seeking medical care for cold sensitivity
If you’re regularly experiencing cold intolerance, consider talking with your healthcare provider. You may need a complete physical exam and laboratory tests to determine if you have an underlying health condition that’s contributing to your cold sensitivity. Once you know your diagnosis you can work with nutritional therapist to help your body to recover.
