Feeling cold all the time can be caused by a mix of common and less common factors. It’s important to consider both simple explanations and more serious conditions. Here’s a structured view to help you think through what might be going on and when to seek care. Direct possibilities

• Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function): Slower metabolism can make it harder for your body to generate heat.
• Anemia: Reduced oxygen delivery to tissues can make you feel cold, especially in your hands and feet.
• Poor circulation: Reduced blood flow can make extremities feel cooler.
• Low body fat or low BMI: Less insulating layer of fat can lead to feeling colder.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Iron, vitamin B12, or other micronutrient deficiencies can contribute to cold sensitivity.
• Dehydration or low energy intake: Both can blunt your body’s heat production and regulation.
• Chronic conditions or medications: Some diseases (like diabetes, cardiovascular issues) or certain meds can alter temperature regulation or blood flow.
• Gender and age factors: Women and older adults may notice cold more often due to hormonal or metabolic differences.

Less common or more specific possibilities

• Raynaud’s phenomenon: Increased sensitivity to cold in fingers and toes due to blood vessel spasms.
• Infections or inflammatory conditions: Some systemic conditions can affect temperature regulation.
• Eating disorders or significant weight loss: Energy conservation can lower core temperature and blood flow to the skin.
• Sleep deprivation or high stress: Can affect appetite, metabolism, and circulation, potentially influencing how cold you feel.

What you can do now

• Check for accompanying symptoms: fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, weight changes, hair/nail changes, cold hands/feet, or mood changes.
• Review medications and caffeine intake: Some drugs or stimulants can influence circulation or metabolism.
• Hydration and nutrition: Ensure adequate hydration and balanced meals with iron and B12-rich foods if dietary intake is a concern.
• Temperature exposure: If you’re often cold but otherwise healthy, layering clothing, using warm blankets, and keeping your living environment comfortably heated can help.

When to seek medical evaluation

• If cold sensation is new, worsening, or persistent beyond several weeks.
• If accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as extreme fatigue, chest palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, significant weight loss, leg swelling, or vision changes.
• If you have risk factors or pre-existing conditions (e.g., thyroid disease, anemia history, diabetes, heart disease), or you’re pregnant.

Possible tests a clinician might order

• Blood tests: complete blood count (for anemia), ferritin/iron studies, thyroid function tests (TSH, free T4), vitamin B12 levels.
• In some cases: blood glucose, inflammatory markers, or more specialized tests depending on symptoms.

Bottom line
There are several plausible explanations for feeling cold frequently, ranging from benign lifestyle factors to treatable medical conditions. If this is a new development or you have other symptoms, scheduling a check-up with a primary care clinician or a healthcare provider is sensible to rule out conditions like anemia or thyroid issues and to tailor guidance to your situation.