What Causes Cold Hands And Feet Along With Dizziness And Heaviness In Legs?

Posted on Sun, 21 Sep 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 21 Sep 2014 Answered on

Wed, 15 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi I have been having trouble with cold hands and feet lately. Today after a walk my legs got really heavy and I felt dizzy almost as if I could not keep going. I have not enjoyed good health for 3 years with a wide variety of symptoms including rubbery legs, back/flank pain weight loss and muscle pain/spasms. I have been to doctors but no diagnosis. Today was the first time I felt as if I would pass out or not be able to walk though. I am feeling cold now and a little shaky but other wise ok. Muscle strength is ok. I can't seem to warm my legs and feet up today unless I am moving around or in the shower.

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Further investigations are needed...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I have gone through your medical history carefully and understood your concerns.

Having cold hands and feet are indicative for possible problems related to:
- neuropathy (nerve damages)
- (occlusion) blood vessels in the extremities.
- rheumatological problems (e.g. Raynaud's phenomenon)
- intermittent claudicatio

You are reporting to have done several tests, but no diagnosis. At this point, I highly recommend to run:
- Doppler ultrasound of arms and legs
- EMG study
- abdominal ultrasound
- MRI of the spinal cord
- complete blood count

Depending on the tests results, specific treatment will be prescribed.
Dr.Benard

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D