If you’ve ever felt an intense sting in your nose or a sharp bite in your toes while out in the cold, it could be more than just normal discomfort. These sensations might be signaling a condition called Raynaud’s phenomenon, also known as Raynaud’s syndrome or disease. This condition affects the small blood vessels in the extremities, causing an exaggerated response to cold temperatures. It leads to spasms in the blood vessels, which result in numbness, throbbing, or tingling, triggered by temperature changes or stress. This is much more than simply having cold hands and feet.

In people with Raynaud’s, affected areas like fingers, toes, nose, or ears typically go through a color change—from white to blue to red—as blood flow decreases and then returns. For comparison, normal fingertips may just turn blotchy when warming up after exposure to the cold. While the exact cause of Raynaud’s remains unclear, seeking treatment is important to prevent long-term damage. Around 5% of Americans experience Raynaud’s, yet only one in five affected individuals seek medical attention.

Raynaud’s is divided into two categories: primary and secondary. Primary Raynaud’s is more common and isn’t linked to other health conditions. While not life-threatening, it can cause significant discomfort, which can often be managed with lifestyle changes. Secondary Raynaud’s is less common and is often an early warning sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as lupus, scleroderma, or Sjögren’s syndrome. In severe cases, secondary Raynaud’s can lead to complications like skin ulcers or even gangrene if left untreated.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Raynaud’s

If you think you might have Raynaud’s, the first step is to consult your primary care doctor or a rheumatologist. After conducting a physical exam and reviewing your health history, your doctor may order blood tests to determine whether your condition is primary or secondary. These tests are usually sufficient for diagnosis and help guide the appropriate treatment.

Cold temperatures, smoking, and stress aggravate Raynaud’s phenomenon. You can help reduce the number of attacks and improve your overall health by following these tips:

• Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke
• Avoid caffeine because it constricts your blood vessels
• When going outdoors in cold weather, be sure to dress warmly
• Stress can cause Raynaud’s attacks, so try to minimize it
• Don’t use tools that vibrate your hands
• Talk to your health care provider about any medications you take that constrict blood vessels

Those with Raynaud’s should also pay special attention to their hands and feet. That means having proper-fitting shoes, avoiding injury, and not wearing anything that constricts the blood vessels. Avoid going barefoot, always wear gloves (mittens are best) in the cold, and practice good nail care.

For those with primary Raynaud’s, treatment focuses on managing symptoms. Patients are often advised on ways to keep warm and reduce discomfort, such as wearing gloves when handling cold items, dressing in layers to maintain core body temperature and learning stress management techniques. In some cases, medications like calcium channel blockers (which help relax blood vessels) or blood thinners like aspirin may be prescribed. If the condition doesn’t progress within five years, it’s unlikely to lead to more serious complications.

For individuals with secondary Raynaud’s, treatment is similar but includes addressing the underlying condition that’s contributing to the symptoms. This might involve additional medications to manage the associated disease.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you notice that color isn’t returning to affected areas or experience excessive pain or ulcers, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. These could be signs that blood vessels are blocked, which requires urgent care.

For more information about Raynaud’s, talk to your primary care doctor about further steps for workup and treatment.

Hailey Chapin, D.O., is a second year Family Medicine resident and sees patients at UPMC Health Innovation Center, 740 High St., Williamsport. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Chapin, call 570-321-2345. To learn more about UPMC Family Medicine services in north central Pennsylvania, go to UPMC.com/PrimaryCareNCPA.