Circulatory problems in the feet are caused by an inadequate blood supply. Poor circulation can make feet feel cold or change to a bluish color. Dr. Mark Stafford with the University of Alabama Health System says that poor circulation is an uncommon, but not rare, cause of cold feet. Circulatory problems can be caused by both mental and physical factors. Mental factors include anxiety, while physical factors include diabetes, peripheral artery disease, varicose veins, high cholesterol and high blood pressure and Raynaud's disease.
Anxiety
Dr. Stafford credits anxiety as the most common cause of cold hands and feet. Anxiety can cause poor circulation to the feet because the stress response and release of adrenaline decreases blood flow. Treating the anxiety should help the circulation to the feet return to normal.
Diabetes
The damaged blood vessels associated with diabetes cause circulation problems in the feet. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, poor circulation interferes with the body's ability to heal and raises the risk of infection. Minor cuts may become infected and ulcerated, necessitating amputation if the infection becomes unmanageable. This is why it's important for diabetics to check their feet daily for signs of infection.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease occurs when the arteries in the body are narrowed by fatty deposits, also known as atherosclerosis. According to MayoClinic.com, foot-related symptoms of the disease include cold feet, sores that won't heal, hair loss and slow growth of toenails. The best ways to prevent peripheral artery disease include quitting smoking, controlling diabetes and getting regular exercise.
Varicose Veins
In people with varicose veins, the blood supply to the feet is lessened because the tiny valves in the veins that prevent blood backflow no longer function. The blood pools in the feet instead of being replaced by fresh, oxygenated blood. The valves often weaken with age, causing the veins to become enlarged and gnarled-looking. Treatment of the problem often restores proper circulation to the feet.
High Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure
Dr. Stafford says that people affected by high cholesterol and high blood pressure often have cold feet due to the accompanying poor circulation. They may also experience a cramping pain in the buttocks or calves when walking.
Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud's disease is a poorly understood condition that causes the hands and feet to lose circulation and nerve function. Extremities such as the feet feel cool and numb when affected by cold temperatures or stress. Raynaud's disease is more common in women and people who live in cold climates.
