Why are you always colder than everyone else in room

Medical experts are highlighting that a persistent sensitivity to cold often stems from internal biological processes rather than external temperatures or simple circulation issues.

Dr Kunal Sood, a specialist in anaesthesiology and pain medicine, explained on Thursday that the phenomenon is frequently linked to metabolism, body insulation, and stress physiology.

He noted: “Feeling cold isn’t just bad circulation. Constantly feeling cold can reflect changes in metabolism, insulation, or stress physiology, not just blood flow.”

Iron deficiency

Low iron levels can significantly impair the body's ability to generate heat by reducing oxygen delivery to tissues.

Dr Sood elaborated: “Iron is required for haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to tissues. When iron is low, oxygen delivery drops and mitochondrial energy production declines.

"Because metabolic heat comes from oxidative metabolism, reduced mitochondrial activity can lower thermogenesis.

"Iron also affects enzymes involved in thyroid hormone metabolism, so deficiency can reduce basal metabolic rate and increase cold intolerance.”

Low body fat

Subcutaneous fat serves as a critical thermal insulator, and those with lower body fat percentages often experience rapid heat loss.

Dr Sood explained: “Subcutaneous fat acts as a thermal insulator that slows heat loss from the body. People with lower body fat lose heat more quickly because the insulating layer under the skin is thinner.

"Adipose tissue also serves as an energy reserve for thermogenesis. When body fat is low, both insulation and metabolic heat production are reduced, making the same environment feel colder.”

Chronic stress

Persistent stress can disrupt temperature regulation by raising cortisol levels and altering thyroid signalling. This process often triggers peripheral vasoconstriction, making the extremities feel particularly chilly.

Dr Sood noted: “Persistent stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and raises cortisol. Elevated cortisol can alter metabolism and thyroid signalling while also increasing sympathetic activity.

"This can cause peripheral vasoconstriction, making hands and feet feel colder, and can reduce overall metabolic heat production over time.”