Sensitivity to the cold is one sign of an underactive thyroid gland, known as hypothyroidism. Other symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, constipation and dry skin. Ask your doctor to test your TSH and other thyroid hormone levels. This common condition can be treated with medication.

Anemia, abnormal blood vessel constriction (such as Raynaud’s syndrome) and low body weight can also cause a person to feel cold. However, individuals vary widely in their sensitivity to cold and heat, and this does not necessarily indicate a medical problem.