Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 10/6/2007

Question
Hello, I'm curious if you know a way to lower the body's temperature.  I've had my thyroid checked out and I run regularly and eat pretty healthy.  My weight is at the lower end of average for my age and height.  But always if it's over 70 degrees I feel way too hot and lose all my energy.  The only other hints I can give to what ales me is that I have recently had my gall bladder removed so my Iron levels went down and also my "good" cholesterol is way low also. But my blood pressure is at 116/69 HB 70 But those numbers change all over the board but usually my blood pressure is in that range.  Thats all the details I have.  But usually I'm even hotter than the fat people around me.  And my doctor just says that it's just the way I am and there is nothing I can do about it.  Hope you can give me some things to try.  Thanks for your time,

  Nick

Answer
Hello Nicholas,
Thanks for writing.  Thyroid problems would be one of the first areas to investigate with temperature dysfunction, but the adrenal system may be an area also.  Thyroid and adrenal function are connected.  There are some major adrenal disorders to rule out, but also more subtle conditions that you would need to consult a naturopathic doctor or holistic MD about.  
As for treatment, that would depend on what is going on.  General things that might be helpful are hydrotherapy; either self treatments (sauna, etc) or through a naturopathic doctor. It seems strange that hot therapies might help but really you'd want a combination of hot followed by cold (sauna with cold shower after); the contrast can be useful in getting one's body back to balance in regulating temperature.  Just cold therapies are effective for lowering temperature, but these are rarely done except to lower an acute fever.  
Another treatment that I'd suggest is Chinese medicine, either acupuncture or herbs, or both.  This can often be effective when conventional medicine has little to offer.  Of course, for this you would need to contact a qualified acupuncturist in your area.  
Good luck in your search.  
Dr Conner