Dr Bernadette Carr answers your questions on feeling cold and glandular fever

I feel cold most of the time — even when the weather is relatively mild. I’ve started wearing thermals which help, but my fingers remain cold. Could this be a circulation problem?

Feeling cold all the time may happen when you have an infection like the flu or it may be a sign of an underlying condition such as an underactive thyroid. Cold fingers may happen as a result of poor circulation or a condition called Raynaud’s phenomenon or exposure to a cold environment. Some people will experience cold hands as part of their normal temperature regulation and it can be entirely normal and common.

Raynaud’s disease is a condition which may cause your hands and fingers to feel numb and cold and it is as a result of narrowing or the small blood vessels supplying the area. The hands may turn white or blue or red and may be painful, these symptoms should not last long and should resolve on their own after minutes. In some more severe cases, symptoms may be more prolonged and distressing and may need to be treated with medication. However, most people will manage the condition themselves by wearing gloves or mittens and trying to avoid exposure of the hands and feet to cold weather. Smoking may be a cause of poor circulation and if your hands or feet have become pale or cold or painful it is very important to see your GP .