'Persistent' cold hands and feet could signal 'silent killer' condition

Experts have warned that a “persistent” symptom in the hands and feet could signal a “silent killer”. Repeatedly having cold hands and feet could indicate high blood pressure.

In an article for the British Heart Foundation (BHF), senior cardiac nurse Regina Giblin explained the link between cold extremities and circulation. She said: ”During cold weather your blood vessels constrict (vasoconstriction), which causes your blood pressure and heart rate to rise.

“This means your heart has to work harder to pump blood around your body. Your body will make sure blood flows to your vital organs such as brain, lungs, and kidneys first, which can leave your hands and feet feeling chilly.

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“Your hands and feet can appear pale or bluish and feel numb and tingly. This is a normal response to the cold, but if your heart is not working as well as it should or you have poor circulation, your hands and feet may feel even colder than usual.”

She explained that “other heart and circulatory conditions” can also cause persistent cold hands and feet. According to Regina, these includeboth high blood pressure and low blood pressure.

Further to this she warned that peripheral artery disease that restricts blood flow to the legs and feet and heart failure can trigger cold hands and feet. However, conditions not related to the heart such as thyroid problems, diabetes, anaemia and even anxiety or stress “can also cause cold hands and feet”.

She added: “If your hands or feet stay cold, even in warm surroundings, and your skin looks pale, blue or blotchy, or you feel tingling, numbness or pain, or see ulcers on your legs, speak to your GP. They will be able to investigate to see if you have a more serious medical condition.”

Her warning is backed by experts at Medichecks, which listed high blood pressure as a potential cause of cold hands and feet. They said: “When your body is cold, blood is drawn away from extremities (such as your hands and feet) to re-direct heat to your vital internal organs.

“If you have poor circulation, it means that your body is not moving blood to where it should be, and you may start to experience symptoms.” The Cleveland Clinicalso advised getting cold hands and feet checked.

It said: “But if your hands feel cold all the time (even when you’re not in a cold place), it might be a sign something else is going on. If your hands are cold all the time, even when you haven’t been in or near cold, it might be a symptom of an issue or health condition that affects blood flow to your hands.”

Having cold hands and feet don’t necessarily mean you have high blood pressure or a heart issue. One of the most common causes if Raynaud’s disease.

This causes blood vessels in your fingers and toes to constrict suddenly. If you have Raynaud’s you might also notice the skin in the area changing colour and having a blue, white, or purple tint.

As blood flow resumes, your hands might be discoloured and feel hot.

High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes. However, it is often referred to as a “silent killer” as it doesn’t typically cause symptoms.

If you are concerned about your blood pressure, or if you have persistently cold hands and feet, you should speak to your GP.