Having frequently cold hands could be a sign of 'silent killer' health condition
During the winter months it isn't uncommon to have cold hands as temperatures drop, and for many of us taking extra measures like wearing gloves or warming your fingers over the heater can do just the trick to bring our hands back to normal.
However, if after taking these extra steps, your fingers are still cold, then your body might actually be telling you that something is not right. There are several conditions that can cause cold hands and fingers, such as Reynaud's - which is when blood stops flowing properly to your fingers and toes. The NHS says this is common and usually doesn't cause serious problems.
However, you could be dealing with something else entirely if you don't have signature colour changes on your hands while trying to heat them up. This can be a sign of high cholesterol, otherwise referred to as the "silent killer".
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This condition has earned its moniker as it is hard to detect before it turns into a real issue, says the Express. Symptoms don't usually present themselves in the early stages and you need to get a blood test from a doctor to actually confirm the condition.
There are a few warning signs to look out for if you think you may have high cholesterol, and being overweight isn't necessarily one of them. The cold hand symptom, which also affects your feet, is one of the signs to keep an eye on.
This is a separate condition that can be diagnosed called peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is a cardiovascular condition that can sometimes lead to a high cholesterol diagnosis. This condition can cause plaque to accumulate in the arteries of the legs and feet - atherosclerosis.
This build up can narrow or block the arteries, which can reduce blood flow and result in cold sensations in the hands and feet. Symptoms can often develop slowly over time, including brittle nails, hair loss on your affected limbs, and your skin taking on a shiny appearance. For men, it can also result in erectile dysfunction.
If you have these symptoms and you notice that they are suddenly worse or are appearing quickly, then you need to get medical attention as these could be signs of a serious issue. In most cases, a GP can give a diagnosis of PAD through a physical examination and a discussion about your symptoms.
As much as it may be tempting to heat your hands with a heater or hot water bottle, you may actually be doing more damage as if your fingers are numb then you might not notice if they get too hot. A safer alternative would be to wear gloves and socks in order to avoid burning or injuring your skin.
The British Heart Foundation lists a few ways you can help to improve your circulation naturally over time. This may gradually help how your hands and feet feel, as well as your overall health:
Exercise regularly (like walking, swimming)
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Quit smoking
Stay hydrated
Elevate your legs when sitting
Wear compression socks (if necessary)
Manage stress
Consider incorporating foods like garlic, ginger, and fatty fish into your diet.
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