What Would Cause Tiredness & Coldness?

Tiredness and an intolerance to cold can be a sign of a serious condition. A common cause of these symptoms is low thyroid function or hypothyroidism.

Identification

• The thyroid gland works to regulate the body's metabolism. It does this by converting food into energy. When the thyroid gland is not working properly, it may not convert food into energy and cause a myriad of uncomfortable symptoms.

Symptoms

• The most common symptoms of low thyroid function are fatigue, cold hands and feet, low basal body temperature, insomnia, weight gain, intolerance to cold, constipation, depression, memory problems, heavy menstrual periods and forgetfulness.

Theories/Speculation

• Hypothyroidism or low thyroid function occurs when the thyroid gland is under active. This means that the thyroid gland is making less thyroid hormone than the body needs.

Causes

• The causes of low thyroid function may be poor diet, a diet high in sugar, a deficiency in iodine, and a deficiency of vitamins in the body. Certain medications can cause hypothyroidism as well as medical conditions such as diabetes. This condition can also be present from birth.

Considerations

• People who suffer from hypothyroidism may have higher cholesterol levels, be more likely to develop infections, have an increased risk of heart disease and may be more likely to develop cancer.