Kältegefühle

Kältegefühle refers to the subjective sensation of coldness experienced by an individual. This can manifest as a general feeling of being cold throughout the body or localized coldness in specific extremities like hands or feet. While often a normal physiological response to environmental temperature, persistent or unexplained kältegefühle can sometimes indicate underlying medical conditions.

The body's thermoregulation system plays a crucial role in maintaining core body temperature. When exposed to cold, blood vessels in the skin constrict, reducing blood flow to the extremities to conserve heat for vital organs. This process can lead to the sensation of coldness in the periphery. Factors such as low ambient temperature, wind chill, and inadequate clothing can trigger this response.

However, kältegefühle can also be a symptom of various health issues. Anemia, for instance, can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, leading to a feeling of coldness. Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, can slow down metabolism, resulting in reduced heat production. Poor circulation, often associated with conditions like Raynaud's phenomenon or peripheral artery disease, can also cause extremities to feel persistently cold. Certain medications and nutritional deficiencies can also contribute to this sensation. If kältegefühle are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.