Why does anaemia cause cold hands and feet?

Haemoglobin in red blood cells carries oxygen around the body. In anaemia, there is less haemoglobin or fewer healthy red blood cells available to do this work. The body can respond by narrowing small blood vessels in the skin and limbs, so hands and feet may feel colder than usual. Cold Hands and Feet is a common presentation of Anaemia. It can also be related to cool surroundings, low body weight, thyroid problems, circulation conditions, stress, or some medicines, so the symptom alone does not identify the cause.

Arrange a routine medical appointment if cold hands and feet are new, persistent, or occur with tiredness, shortness of breath on exertion, paleness, dizziness, palpitations, or headaches. A clinician may use a blood test to check for anaemia and investigate why it has developed. Keep your hands and feet warm with layers, but do not rely on warming measures to address an underlying cause. Review information about Anaemia and Cold Hands and Feet for related symptoms.

Seek urgent assessment for chest pain, breathlessness at rest, fainting, new confusion, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, or severe weakness. Get prompt medical advice if you notice black stools, blood in stool, heavy bleeding, or pregnancy-related symptoms, as blood loss can contribute to anaemia and may need timely treatment.

Ask which blood tests are appropriate, whether your diet, menstrual bleeding, digestive symptoms, medicines, or family history could be relevant, and when to repeat testing. Do not start iron supplements unless a clinician advises them, because anaemia has different causes and treatments.