What Causes Cold Sensation In The Feet During The Night?

Posted on Wed, 26 Apr 2017

Question: I am awaken often at night because my feet are cold however, they are not cold when feeling them with my hands. what is the most likely cause? I am 80yrs old, male, in relatively good health

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Differential Diagnosis and investigations for cold feet detailed below

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
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Increased cold sensation in feet and toes can be due to several conditions like Diabetic neuropathy (Peripheral nerve damage due to increased blood sugar levels), Peripheral vascular disease (Blocks in peripheral arteries due to atherosclerosis leading to decreased blood supply), Reynold's disease (Spasm of peripheral blood vessels), Hypothyroidism (decreased thyroid hormone) or smoking.
Blood investigations to look for blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, thyroid levels and doppler studies, CT angiogram to assess blood flow, nerve conduction studies are required at this point to make a definite diagnosis.

Please follow up with your Primary care provider to get the necessary evaluation and investigations done.
Meanwhile, dress your feet in layers with socks and leg warmers at night, and quit smoking if you do have the habit.

Hope I was able to help you
Please address further questions
Regards,
Dr.Lekshmi

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T