Whenever I get a cold I feel terrible. I can’t sleep and I’m constantly coughing. It seems like my immune system is failing me. But is this really the case?
Anemia
Having anemia is a common condition that affects more than three million Americans. It occurs when the body lacks the proper number of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body. The lack of red blood cells can result in many symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and headaches.
Anemia is caused by a number of factors, including a lack of iron in the body, chronic illnesses, and infections. The most common cause of anemia is iron deficiency. To cure iron deficiency, the body needs to eat foods that are rich in iron. Some foods to eat include chicken, beef, pork, eggs, and dark green leafy vegetables.
Anemia can be chronic or acute. Chronic anemia is a long-term condition that usually requires blood transfusions. Acute anemia occurs when the body loses a large amount of blood, such as from a hemorrhage or surgery. The resulting lack of oxygen in the blood can cause fatigue, dizziness, and a rapid heartbeat.
Hypothyroidism
Symptoms of hypothyroidism are wide-ranging and include weight gain, memory loss, depression, puffy eyes, puffy cheeks, low heart rate, muscle aches, and cold hands and feet. The effects of hypothyroidism on the body are exacerbated by cold weather.
Some hypothyroid patients are also prone to developing autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s disease. These diseases involve the body’s immune system attacking the thyroid gland. The thyroid produces two hormones that help regulate the body’s metabolism.
These hormones are important in regulating the function of brown adipose tissue, the fatty deposits in the body that generate heat. Without enough thyroid hormones, the brown fat cannot do its job.
A simple blood test can be used to identify hypothyroidism at an early stage. If you experience cold hands and feet, droopy eyelids, or muscle cramps, talk with your doctor about testing for hypothyroidism.
Atherosclerosis
Symptoms of atherosclerosis vary depending on where in the body the artery is affected. For instance, a person with atherosclerosis of the heart may have angina or shortness of breath. The condition can also affect the legs, which may lead to gangrene or claudication.
Atherosclerosis is usually not diagnosed until complications occur. It can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or amputation of a leg. It is also a leading cause of death in the United States. Luckily, there are ways to detect the disease before it is too late.
The signs and symptoms of atherosclerosis can range from a simple cold to a complete blockage of an artery. Depending on where the problem is located, the symptoms may be mild or severe. For instance, a person with atherosclerosis in the femoral and popliteal arteries may have crampy leg pain during exercise. This pain may be accompanied by coldness in the legs.
Stress
Getting cold can be a side effect of many health conditions. Whether it’s cold weather, anxiety or a health condition, if you are cold you should consult a doctor.
If you’re working outside, you might be wondering why is it cold? Fortunately, there are ways to keep warm.
The most obvious way to stay warm is to wear warm clothing. Invest in some insulated gloves and hats. Wearing these will help prevent the loss of 40 percent of your body heat.
Another way to stay warm is to drink plenty of fluids. Having a buddy at work can also help keep you warm. You should also consider taking frequent breaks in warm, dry areas.
Aside from cold weather, working outdoors can be dangerous. This is especially true for people working in the oil and gas industries, as well as landscaping and water transportation.
Raynaud’s syndrome
Symptoms of Raynaud’s syndrome are caused by a disorder in the blood vessels. They can occur in the hands, feet, and nose. These attacks can lead to numbness and redness of the skin, as well as painful burns.
People with Raynaud’s syndrome can be treated with medicine and lifestyle changes to reduce the symptoms. However, if the symptoms are severe, you should consult a physician.
Raynaud’s syndrome occurs when the surface blood vessels in the fingers and toes narrow, resulting in reduced blood flow. This condition can be triggered by exposure to cold temperatures or emotional stress.
People with Raynaud’s can use self-heating socks or devices to help relieve symptoms. Those with severe symptoms may need surgery. Wearing several layers of clothing can also help.
Raynaud’s can be caused by an underlying illness, such as autoimmune disease, scleroderma, or lupus. You can also get the disease if you have certain artery diseases or use certain medications.
