Baby with Cold Hands and Feet

Should I be worried about my infant son having cold clammy hands and feet ?

Healthy infants will often have cold/clammy or even purple hands. These findings are thought to be due to an immature peripheral nervous system. (Meaning this will get better as he and his nervous system matures.) These changes can be caused by a cold environment or illness.

First try warming up your infant, by swaddling him. If his cold/clammy hands and feet do not improve assess his overall health. Parents of healthy infants that are feeding well, growing well and acting well need not worry.

However, if your child is sick (fever, lethargy, fussy, or not growing well) cold/clammy hands can be a sign of illness. If your infant has additional signs of illness, please take him to his doctor.

Written July 2011 by
Dr. Gordon, Orlando Pediatrician