Feeling cold all the time isn’t always about low AC settings. Anemia and feeling cold often go hand in hand. But why? If you constantly reach for a sweater while others are comfortable, your body might be trying to tell you something, like anemia.
Why do some people feel extra cold in AC while others don’t?
Everyone has a different comfort level with cold. But if you’re always cold, especially in air-conditioned spaces, and others around you seem fine, it could be more than just your personal preference. One common reason is anemia.
Anemia happens when your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen. Without enough oxygen, your body struggles to maintain normal temperature. That’s why anemia and feeling cold often go hand-in-hand.
In India, iron deficiency is a leading cause of anemia, especially in young working adults who skip meals, eat poorly, or have irregular schedules. Even if you’re eating well, poor absorption or other health issues can still lead to anemia.
What does feeling cold all the time have to do with anemia and low energy?
The link between anemia and feeling cold goes deeper than just shivering. Oxygen is like fuel for your body. When you don’t get enough of it, your system slows down, this means less energy, slower circulation, and lower body temperature. You might notice:
- Cold hands and feet, even when it’s not that cold
- Shivering under the AC while your coworkers are fine
- Needing more layers than others
- Feeling tired or weak along with coldness
This happens because your body is directing limited oxygen to your vital organs (like your brain and heart) and away from your skin, arms, and legs. This is why anemia and body temperature are closely connected.
In medical terms, this is called cold intolerance, which means you feel cold more easily than others. If you have cold intolerance and low energy, it could be a sign your body is struggling due to anemia.
How can I tell if my cold hands and feet in AC are linked to anemia and feeling cold or something else?
Not every case of feeling cold means you have anemia. But there are a few signs that can help you figure out if your body might need help: Look out for these signs along with your sensitivity to cold:
- Pale skin or lips
- Tiredness or dizziness
- Fast heartbeat or short breath
- Brittle nails or hair fall
- Craving for ice, scientifically called pagophagia
- Mouth ulcers or sore tongue
If you notice two or more of these symptoms along with always being cold, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor. A simple blood test (CBC and iron levels) can confirm if you have anemia.
Also, it’s important to know that not all anemia is caused by low iron. Some people have vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, which can also cause anemia and feeling cold. Others might have inherited conditions or chronic illnesses.
Very few articles mention this, but there’s also a rare condition called cold agglutinin disease, where cold triggers the destruction of red blood cells. It’s rare, but if your symptoms worsen in cold weather or AC, it should be checked out.
What can you do if you think anemia is making you cold?
If you relate to these signs, don’t worry, anemia can be treated. What helps:
- Iron-rich foods: green leafy vegetables, jaggery, lentils, meat, eggs
- Iron supplements (only with a doctor’s advice)
- Treating the root cause (like heavy periods or stomach issues)
- Rest and regular meals
- Wearing layers and staying active
Also, avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals as they block iron absorption. Instead, add lemon to meals,Vitamin C helps your body absorb more iron. Dr Somil Singhal, MBBS, MD, Haematologist, AIIMS, New Delhi, says, “You can take steps to stay healthy. For example, try to get plenty of rest. If you have cold-reactive autoimmune hemolytic anemia, stay away from cold temperatures. During cold weather, wear a hat, scarf, and a warm coat. When taking cold food out of the refrigerator or freezer, wear gloves. Turn down air conditioning or dress warmly while in air-conditioned spaces. Warm up the car before driving in cold weather.”
Dr Singhal suggests, “If you have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, avoid substances that can trigger anemia. For example, avoid fava beans, naphthalene (a substance found in some moth balls), and certain medicines (as your doctor advises). Ask your doctor what types and amounts of physical activity are safe for you. You may want to avoid certain sports or activities that could worsen your condition or lead to complications.”
If you’re always freezing in AC, don’t ignore it or think it’s just in your head. Anemia and feeling cold are strongly connected. It’s your body’s way of asking for help. Listen to it. A quick check-up and some simple changes can bring your energy and warmth back.
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