All answers
Answer · biomarkers
What causes cold intolerance?
Short answer
Cold intolerance commonly reflects hypothyroidism, iron deficiency or anemia, low body fat, hypoglycemia, peripheral vascular disease, or anorexia.
Reviewed by Dr. Laura PurdyMay 29, 2026
Full answer
Cold intolerance — feeling cold disproportionately to ambient temperature — is a common signal of hypothyroidism (low T3/T4, elevated TSH). Other contributors include iron deficiency anemia, low body fat, hypoglycemia, peripheral vascular disease, and Raynaud's. Within oMeds review, workup screens thyroid status (TSH, free T4, free T3), CBC and iron studies, and basic metabolic markers. Persistent cold intolerance with a normal screening panel warrants further evaluation by a provider.
Educational. Not a substitute for individualized provider review.
References & sources
- TSH — Primary source · oMeds
- Reviewed by Dr. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA · Clinical Director, oMeds · Last reviewed 2026-05-29
Related answers
What is TSH?
TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is the pituitary signal that drives thyroid hormone production. It is the most sensitive screening marker of thyroid function. Conventional ranges run roughly 0.4–4.5 mIU/L; many optimization frameworks target the lower-mid range when reading TSH with free T3, free T4, and TPO antibodies.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is under-production of thyroid hormone, most often from autoimmune destruction (Hashimoto's). It commonly presents with fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, and constipation.
Primary source
TSH