Raynaud's Phenomenon: When Fingers Change Color
White, then blue, then red fingers in the cold. What Raynaud's is, the two types, and when it may signal an underlying autoimmune disease.
When I was an ice skater, I would notice my hands change color, white, sometimes blue, and finally red, after my time on the ice. I later learned this was Raynaud's phenomenon, which still happens to me.
Raynaud's phenomenon occurs when the extremities (like the fingers and toes) change color and develop pain and numbness in response to cold, stress, or triggers like smoking. It results from narrowing (vasoconstriction) and spasm (vasospasm) of small arteries, which decreases blood supply to the affected areas.
There are two types. Primary Raynaud's (Raynaud's disease) has no known cause and is usually not serious. Secondary Raynaud's is usually caused by an underlying disease, in my field, autoimmune conditions like scleroderma, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis are common reasons. Complications can include prolonged limited blood supply leading to digital ulcers or wounds at the fingertips and toes.
Your rheumatologist can test for autoimmune diseases with blood work. Treatment includes smoking cessation, adjusting medications, reducing emotional stress, and avoiding cold exposure. Medications may be needed, and for severe disease there is a procedure to block the nerves that affect the artery supply to the hands or feet.
During the winter, bundle up and pay attention to your fingers and toes, and see a doctor if you notice these symptoms.
Dr. Maggie Cadet, MD