Is My Fluctuating Temperature Tolerance Normal?
As a 25-year-old transgender woman, I previously took estradiol and spironolactone, but I've been unable to access them for the past year due to the lack of a healthcare provider. In the past, I was prescribed Lexapro for about six months, but I ultimately stopped due to the undesirable side effects. I have noticed some odd patterns in how I react to temperature changes. For instance, there are days when a room set at 65 degrees feels unbearably cold, leaving me shivering and even causing headaches. Conversely, other times, I can comfortably wear just a T-shirt while it's snowing outside, and I actually find the cold refreshing. On the flip side, my comfort in warmer temperatures is equally erratic. Sometimes I feel perfectly fine in hot weather, around 90 degrees, basking in the sun. Yet, on other occasions, a seemingly mild 72-degree room without a fan can make me sweat excessively and feel nauseous, occasionally leading to vomiting. It’s perplexing that my tolerance varies so much, and while I currently enjoy the cold, I never know if this comfort will persist for just a few hours or for several days. This unpredictability is quite stressful for me. I'm left wondering if these changes in my temperature sensitivity are common or if they indicate a health issue that I should discuss with a doctor when I finally have the means to do so.
Answers (1)
4/3/2025, 8:50:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your experience with fluctuating temperature sensitivity could be influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, stress, or even anxiety. While it's not uncommon for individuals to have varying tolerances to temperature, the degree of fluctuation you're noticing might warrant attention, especially considering your history with hormone therapy and mental health medication.
Explanation
- Hormonal Influence: Changes in hormones—like those from taking or stopping estradiol and spironolactone—can affect thermoregulation, which is how your body maintains its temperature. Since you haven’t taken these medications for a year, your body may still be adjusting.
- Mental Health Factors: Anxiety and stress can manifest as physical symptoms, including changes in temperature sensitivity. Lexapro, which is used to treat anxiety, could have also played a role in your previous temperature regulation.
- Physical Causes: Other medical issues, such as thyroid dysfunction or changes in metabolism, might affect how you perceive temperature as well.
Next Steps
While it’s important to discuss these concerns with a healthcare provider when you can access one, here are some immediate and practical steps to consider:
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Track Symptoms: Keep a detailed journal of your temperature sensitivities, noting the conditions (like what you were doing, how you were feeling emotionally, and what you ate) when these fluctuations occur. This information can help identify patterns.
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Manage Environment: Dress in layers so you can adjust to temperature changes more easily. If you anticipate a change in weather, prepare accordingly to minimize discomfort.
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in relaxation methods such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or yoga to help manage anxiety, which may help with physical symptoms, including temperature sensitivity.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you're drinking enough fluids, as dehydration can lead to increased sensitivity to both heat and cold.
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Monitor Health: Be aware of other symptoms that arise (like nausea, headaches, or prolonged discomfort) and how frequently they occur. If you notice concerning changes or if symptoms escalate, prioritize seeking medical attention.
Reassurance
It's understandable to feel stressed about these fluctuations. Many people experience varying tolerances to temperature, especially during times of change in their health or environment. Take it one step at a time and take note of how things progress over the next few weeks. Ensuring you have a supportive healthcare provider when you're able to access one will also be important for overall well-being.
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