Dr Punam Krishan has issued a caution to anyone taking certain medications for heart problems or circulation issues. Speaking on today’s (November 4) episode of the BBC talk show Morning Live, the NHS GP urged viewers to consult a doctor if they notice symptoms while on medication that could easily be mistaken for something minor. As colder weather sets in, people are being advised to watch for warning signs that can be overlooked simply because of the low temperatures. Feeling cold is normal in winter, but consistently feeling chilly, especially in your hands and feet, while indoors or layered up should not be ignored, as certain medications can make you more vulnerable to these “hidden” problems.Why Feeling Cold Could Signal Something SeriousTalking to hosts Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton, Dr Punam explained: “In winter, we all feel colder, but some more than others. We all have different cold thresholds. If you feel unusually cold indoors, when you’re wearing layers, or when the heating’s on, and it’s a new change, it’s worth checking out.”She added, “This kind of cold could point to an underlying health issue. It’s not just feeling a bit chilly, it’s something that shouldn’t be ignored.”Dr Punam also noted that as we age, our bodies naturally lose muscle mass and fat insulation, which keep us warm. Slower metabolism can also make it harder to maintain body temperature.Symptoms to Watch ForDr Punam advised that cold sensations accompanied by other signs, such as pain, tingling, numbness, weakness, stiffness, or changes in skin colour, should prompt a visit to the doctor.Among common causes she encounters in her practice are iron deficiency and anaemia. “Low iron means the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to deliver oxygen throughout the body. Blood flow is prioritized to vital organs, so extremities like hands and feet feel the cold the most. It’s a simple blood test, easy to diagnose, and straightforward to treat, but should not be ignored,” she said.Another condition to be mindful of is an underactive thyroid, which can slow metabolism and make someone feel excessively cold. Raynaud’s disease was also highlighted as a condition that can affect temperature regulation.Dr Punam further cautioned people with heart disease, peripheral artery disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, particularly advanced diabetes, because these conditions can impact blood flow and nerve function, leaving hands and feet unusually cold. “If any of this sounds familiar, speak to your doctor,” she emphasized.Medications That Can Affect Body TemperatureDr Punam listed several medications that can interfere with how the body regulates heat, making it especially important to consult a doctor if you notice unusual coldness. These include:DiureticsAntidepressantsVasodilatorsBeta blockersDiuretics, also called water tablets, help the body remove excess salt and water by increasing urine production. They are commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, heart failure, or fluid retention (oedema).Diuretics work by influencing kidney function, causing the body to filter more salt and water into the urine. While feeling cold, particularly in hands and feet is a possible side effect, it is less common than others such as frequent urination or dizziness.What Are Vasodilators and Beta Blockers?According to the National Institutes of Health, vasodilators are medications that relax and widen blood vessels to help lower blood pressure. Beta blockers are drugs that reduce the effects of hormones such as adrenaline, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.Some beta blockers, called vasodilating beta blockers, combine both actions. They not only slow the heart but also help relax blood vessels, either through mechanisms like alpha-1 blockade or by boosting nitric oxide production.How Vasodilators and Beta Blockers Can Make You Feel ColdVasodilators may leave you feeling chilly because they direct more blood toward the skin. This increased blood flow helps the body release heat and lower core temperature. As more heat escapes through the skin, it can make your hands and feet feel unusually cold.Beta blockers, often prescribed for conditions like anxiety, high blood pressure, or palpitations, can also cause cold extremities. This happens because the medication affects how blood circulates to your hands and feet.Dr Punam cautioned: “Medications can play a big role. If you’ve recently started one and notice that you’re constantly feeling cold, it could be a side effect. In many cases, we can adjust your treatment to help.”
Email
Google
Facebook Email Google Facebook