Summary: If you have fibromyalgia, you may have noticed that you feel colder than others around you. Fibromyalgia and feeling cold are often linked, and this can make it especially tough to stay comfortable during the winter months. Here’s what you need to know about this common symptom of fibromyalgia.
1. Why Fibromyalgia Causes Cold Sensitivity
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and a number of other symptoms. One of the lesser-known symptoms of fibromyalgia is cold sensitivity. Many people with fibromyalgia report feeling cold all the time, even when they’re in a warm environment. This is thought to be related to a malfunction in the way the body regulates temperature.
Our bodies are designed to maintain a relatively stable internal temperature, but this process can be disrupted by a variety of factors. For people with fibromyalgia, it’s believed that the disturbance occurs within the hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain that controls body temperature. As a result, the body is less able to regulate its temperature properly, and this can lead to feelings of coldness even when the external temperature is warm.
2. Ways to Stay Warm with Fibromyalgia
If you have fibromyalgia and are struggling with cold sensitivity, there are several strategies you can use to stay warm. Here are some tips:
– Dress in layers: Layering your clothing is an effective way to trap warm air close to your body and insulate yourself from the cold. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that don’t add too much bulk.
– Use heating pads or hot water bottles: Applying heat directly to your body can help to increase blood flow and reduce sensations of coldness. Try using a heating pad or hot water bottle on your feet, hands, or lower back.
– Take warm baths: Soaking in a warm bath can help to raise your body temperature and keep you feeling warm. Add some Epsom salts or essential oils to enhance the experience.
– Drink warm beverages: Sipping on hot tea, coffee, or cocoa can help to warm you up from the inside out.
– Stay active: Exercise is known to improve circulation and boost body temperature. Consider gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or swimming to help keep your body warm and ease fibromyalgia symptoms at the same time.
3. When to Seek Medical Attention
While cold sensitivity is a common symptom of fibromyalgia, it’s important to note that it can also be a sign of other health conditions. If you’re experiencing unusually severe coldness, numbness, or tingling, you should talk to your doctor. These symptoms could indicate a problem with circulation or nerve function, which may require medical attention.
Conclusion:
Fibromyalgia can be a challenging condition to manage, and cold sensitivity is just one of many symptoms you may experience. By understanding why fibromyalgia causes coldness and implementing strategies to stay warm, you can make yourself more comfortable and feel better equipped to cope with the challenges of daily life. If you’re concerned about your cold sensitivity or any other symptoms of fibromyalgia, talk to your doctor for guidance and support.