Hypothyroidism and cold feet: what to know

An underactive thyroid can be associated with feeling cold more easily, tiredness, dry skin, constipation and slowed thinking. Cold feet may occur alongside cold hands or general cold intolerance. The symptom is not specific to thyroid disease: anaemia, iron deficiency and reduced blood flow can also make the feet feel cold.

Notice whether both feet are affected and whether the skin changes colour. Pain when walking, wounds that heal slowly, numbness or one foot becoming suddenly cold point towards a circulation problem and need assessment.

Keep your feet dry and use warm socks and well-fitting footwear. Avoid placing numb feet directly against a heater or using very hot water, because reduced sensation can hide a burn. Arrange a medical review if the feeling continues, especially with fatigue, weight change, constipation or changes to your skin and hair. A clinician may review thyroid function and a blood count, examine circulation and consider iron status.

Seek urgent help for a suddenly cold, pale or blue foot, severe pain, new weakness, or loss of feeling. Prompt care is also needed for a foot wound with spreading redness, discharge or fever. Cold feet that are gradual and equal on both sides are less likely to be an emergency, but persistent symptoms still deserve a clear diagnosis.

Ask whether thyroid testing is appropriate, whether anaemia or iron deficiency could explain the coldness, and how your circulation and nerve sensation look. Bring a list of medicines and supplements, and describe whether symptoms improve with warmth, occur at rest or appear during walking.