Topic: Cold Feet

Applying for a bank loan, interviewing for a new job, or giving a book report at school are situations, which can frequently bring on cold feet with sweaty palms. But in addition to this common type of neurogenic induced temperature change, the toes will occasionally take on a bluish purple discoloration and will be iced cold to the touch. Often times, the winter or colder weather months will set off the skin and temperature changes in these individuals. Emotional as well as psychological strain can also frequently affect changes in skin temperature. In addition, certain metabolic conditions can lead to wide variations in body chemistry and heat. Vascular or circulatory deficiencies comprise a large category of reasons for cold feet and must be ruled out in the examination process.

Thus, one can see that the cure for chronically cold feet is not always just an extra pair of socks. Persistently cold feet are merely an indication of an underlying process, be it poor circulation, nerves, abnormal blood chemistry, etc. What is important is that the person so afflicted have the problem evaluated thoroughly in order to identify the underlying process if possible. I should also emphasize that cold feet may not necessarily indicate serious consequences or a disease origin at all, but a prudent investigation is still worthwhile.

Often times it is beneficial to understand the causative factors in a condition even if there is no particular cure or remedy. For instance, a young attorney friend of mine used to complain of cold hands and feet whenever he went into court for a trial. After some time and successful growth on his part, this condition seemed to fade away. Perhaps in part, his condition became less of a problem once he realized that his skin response was a symptom much the same as a cough or runny nose. When cold feet become persistent or progressive, they should be evaluated thoroughly in order to manage the condition properly.