When exposed to the cold, you must have noted that your feet and hands are among the first to get cold, while the rest of your body, particularly the chest and torso, stays warmer for a relatively longer time. The reason behind such cold feet is often recognizable- when the body’s core temperature drops on exposure to cold, the small blood vessels in our limbs tend to constrict. This shunts blood away from our extremities, particularly the feet and hands, to keep the internal organs warm.
For some, getting cold feet is an inherited condition. People with lesser body fat also often find their feet turning cold in no time, due to lack of sufficient insulation in their bodies when the air gets cold. A herbal heating pad is often a quick and easy remedy in such cases. However, there are instances when the cause behind cold feet is not as simple as that- the Raynaud’s disease is one such case.
What is Raynaud’s Syndrome?
Also known as the ‘Cold Feet Syndrome’, Raynaud’s syndrome causes certain areas of the body, particularly the toes and fingers, to exhibit an exaggerated response to cold. In this condition, the smaller arteries that supply blood to the skin overcompensate to conserve body heat and constrict abnormally.
As a result, those blood vessels go into spasm, significantly reducing blood flow to certain areas, particularly the toes and fingers- a condition known as vasospasm. On the exterior, the skin blanches, turns pale, or even blue and black. Those afflicted with Raynaud’s are known to experience either a prickly feeling or a stinging sensation, often followed by swelling and pain, as the blood vessels relax in the affected areas. This is the most definite symptom of Cold Feet Syndrome.
What causes Raynaud’s Syndrome
There is lack of concrete evidence to determine the exact cause of an attack due to Raynaud’s Syndrome- it can be triggered due to a sudden drop in external temperatures or even as a result of extreme emotional stress. The numbness caused by Cold Feet Syndrome can be momentarily countered with the use of a herbal heating pad. Sometimes, Raynaud’s is also caused as a result of an underlying disease, medical condition or lifestyle factor. On the basis of its underlying cause, Raynaud’s Syndrome is categorized as Primary and Secondary.
- Primary Raynaud’s (Raynaud’s Disease)
This is the most common form of Raynaud’s Syndrome. Its origin is yet to be traced- it occurs on its own, in the sense that its cause is not connected with another disease or medical condition. Primary Raynaud’s works on the milder side, without any severe symptoms or side effects. It often mends itself without much pain or damage- the use of a herbal heating pad on cold areas, for instance, can provide much relief. This condition is more likely to afflict women than men, and often begins to show symptoms between the ages of 15-30.
- Secondary Raynaud’s (Raynaud’s Phenomenon)
This condition is less common than Primary Raynaud’s, but more serious. It develops as a consequence of another health condition. Those with connective tissue diseases (like scleroderma, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), any buildup of fat in their blood vessels, nervous issues (like carpal tunnel syndrome), those on medications for high blood pressure and migraines, have an increased risk of Secondary Raynaud’s. A severe case of Raynaud’s Phenomenon may lead to skin ulcers, and on rare occasions, even gangrene (tissue death).
Prevention & Cure
Those experiencing severe Raynaud’s attacks might have to get their condition diagnosed by a medical expert, and get a subsequent treatment plan drafted by them. However, milder cases can be fixed with some change in habits and lifestyle- for instance, quitting the consumption of tobacco products has mellowed the intensity of Primary Raynaud’s Syndrome in many. Similarly, a heat therapy with the best microwavable heating pad can also help in warming numb feet.
Beat the Cold Feet Syndrome with Nature Creation
Nature Creation deals in premium-quality heating pads and as cold packs, made from a 100% natural formula. Our reusable products also combine the benefits of aromatherapy in them. Our store has the best microwavable heating pad to counter cold feet. This easy-to-use pack can be conveniently wrapped around the feet, and easily heated to keep the feet warm.
Besides the herbal heating pad, Nature Creation offers a more targeted remedy for Cold Feet Syndrome- feet warmers. These adjustable thermos slippers come with microwavable heating inserts at strategic reflexology points in the feet, and a lining of extra padding at the sole for maximum heat retention. The inside of these feet warmers are lined with cozy faux fur for added comfort and warmth.
Counter the Cold Feet Syndrome with easy-to-wear feet warmers/ thermos slippers from Nature Creation. For more product-related information, browse through our website now!