Cold Feet
Cold Feet
Cold feet is a common condition that affects many people from all walks of life. The symptoms are simply that the feet feel constantly cold and may tingle. People with Cold Feet notice their feet turn whitish in color then blue.
Symptoms of Cold Feet
Cold Feet can be indicative of numerous conditions such as stress and circulatory problems, as well as conditions such as Thyroid Syndrome,
Diabetes, Neuropathies,
Raynauds Disease.
Getting 'Cold Feet'?
Stress can cause Cold Feet. During times of stress people often complain of a cold sensation in their feet because the adrenal glands release adrenalin and other stress related hormones, which increase the heart rate and force the blood vessels to constrict forcing the blood away from skin to the vital internal organs such as the heart, lungs, muscles and brain.
This has the effect of taking blood away from non-essential functions, such as the skin and digestion, and diverting it towards organ systems required for essential physical activity. This constriction greatly decreases blood flow, causing the feet to tingle, and then feel cold. Hence the phrase "Colf Feet" when referring to situations of apprehension and uncertainty.
Poor Circulation?
Cold feet are often associated with circulatory problems. Circulation
refers to nutrient rich blood flowing around the body and down to the
legs and feet, and deoxygenated blood that flows up the legs back to
the heart and lungs. A weaker heart is not effective in pumping the
blood back up and therefore the blood tends to stagnate and accumulate
in the lower extremities which cause a sensation of cold feet.
The veins also play a vital role in pushing the blood up towards the
heart. The valves in the veins make sure that it is a one way flow up
the body and the muscles that surround the veins help to squeeze these
veins which pushes the blood back to the heart.
Treaments for Cold Feet
- Increase circulation and strengthen the heart by doing some aerobic activity which increases heart
rate for at least 20 minutes, three times per week.
- Take supplements which strengthen the heart include potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, calcium, and omega-3 oils.
- Avoid Smoking
- Keep on the move and dont stay immobile for long periods of time.
- Identifyand address the causes of stress
- Improving your diet (eliminating alcohol and caffeine)
- Eat regular meals in a relaxed atmosphere (include vitamin C, vitamin B6, and zinc in your diet as this is important in proper adrenal gland function).
Sweaty feet
The accumulation of moisture on the surface of the skin will also have the affect of cold clammy feet, particularly when the moisture is allowed to evaporate leaving the surface of the foot feel cooler.
This information is for guidance only. If you are in doubt at all, please consult your nearest health professional.
