The arrival of the first flakes is often accompanied by the first ailments: chapping, frostbite and… frozen extremities. In fact, when the thermometer approaches 0 degrees, the hands and feet cool down first. But when should you worry? Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, tells us more about this.
Physical symptoms not to be neglected
Goosebumps, chills, numbness in the extremities, joint pain… In recent weeks, the sudden drop in temperatures has had a psychological, but also physical impact on the French. In fact, many have seen their hands and feet freeze, to the point of experiencing mild hypothermia (body temperature between 32 and 35°C).
And since it is not always possible to obtain a thermometer, when should you finally worry about this drop in temperature? Dr. Gérald Kierzek advises observing, carefully, certain first physical signs.
“The symptoms that should worry you are many and varied – a change in color of the skin of the extremities (hands or feet) which becomes white, blue or pale; a feeling of numbness or tingling; pain; the appearance of sores or blisters; hardening of the skin”, reveals the emergency doctor.
These signs may in fact reveal a vascular disorder (such as Raynaud’s syndrome) or poor blood circulation requiring medical evaluation by a healthcare professional. To find out more, discover our article “Do you often have cold hands? Find out in 5 questions if it’s Raynaud’s syndrome”.
Cold hands and feet: when to consult?
Running to your doctor at the slightest chill is of course not recommended. On the other hand, if this feeling of cold “is frequent, persistent, or accompanied by the above signs“, it is necessary to consult.
Dr. Gérald Kierzek specifies that “any noticeable change in color“and/or”any form of pain/numbness” should particularly alert you.
A consultation is also recommended in the event of other associated symptoms (such as abnormal fatigue, sudden shortness of breath, etc.) or if this feeling of cold is felt even for no obvious reason (for example, if you are comfortably seated under your blanket).
How to get rid of these frozen hands and feet?
To quickly warm your frozen hands and feet, a few simple actions can make a difference on a daily basis:
- Immerse your feet and hands in lukewarm water (remember to avoid hot water which could burn your insensitive skin);
- Gently massage your extremities to stimulate blood circulation;
- Move your fingers and toes to activate the blood supply;
- Cover yourself with warm clothing and avoid prolonged exposure to the cold ;
- Wear gloves;
- In case of Raynaud’s syndrome, avoid stress and smoking which aggravate vasospasm.
Also remember to heat your home to the right temperature. Your body will thank you!