- When you plan to be outdoors, dress warmly and in layers— loose-fitting clothing will allow better circulation, than tight-fitting. Wear a coat, a hat, and warm socks. And use mittens instead of gloves, so cold air can’t get between your fingers.
- If your hands or feet become chilled, soak them in warm (not hot) water.
- Use mittens when taking anything out of a freezer.
- Keep a supply of hand and foot warmers—you can find them in sporting goods departments.
- Avoid long periods of sitting and standing, which constrict the veins and increases venous pressure. And try to break the habit of crossing your legs when you’re seated.
- Get regular exercise to help keep blood vessels wide open. Take a walk for at least 10 minutes every hour; rotate your ankles and feet whenever possible; point and flex your toes to promote circulation in your legs and feet. Bicycling and swimming are other low-impact ways to improve circulation.
- Don’t smoke or spend time in locations where others are smoking. Smoking narrows blood vessels even more.
- Limit your use of tools that vibrate, such as an electric hand mixer or power tools.
- Avoid decongestant medications such as Sudafed® and any amphetamine-type medication such as Provigil® and Adderall®.
- Maintain an appropriate body weight for your frame. Being overweight can strain the circulatory system. If you’re unsure of your ideal weight, talk to your doctor.
I am looking into electric heated gloves and socks! Even with warm gloves, if there is no body heat, they are useless, so the battery powered gloves would be beneficial!