Cold hands and feet might seem like a typical response to winter chill, but in some instances, it could be a red flag for Raynaud’s.
This condition is when blood flow to your fingers and toes is disrupted. While this is common and usually not a significant worry, it can also signal more severe conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Some people may need to take daily medication to alleviate Raynaud’s symptoms, while others may need to use it preventatively as the weather turns frosty.
It’s normal to have cold hands and feet during the winter months, but Raynaud’s amplifies the body’s reaction to cold temperatures, worsening circulation to the extremities.
The key distinction between a normal response and Raynaud’s symptoms can be seen in the colour of your hands.
Raynaud’s can cause the fingertips to turn white or blue as circulation deteriorates. This may also be accompanied by discomfort, pins and needles or numbness according to the NHS.
Most people might experience these symptoms when exposed to extremely cold weather, but they should return to normal after a few minutes in a warmer environment.
People with Raynaud’s may start to notice these symptoms even before the temperatures plummet and will take a longer time to reverse the symptoms. It can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours as circulation returns.
Some people with Raynaud’s also experience these symptoms on their ears, nose, lips or nipples.
The NHS recommends people consult their GP if they experience any of the following:
- Symptoms of Raynaud’s that are very bad or getting worse
- Raynaud’s is affecting your daily life
- Symptoms on just one side of the body
- Joint pain, skin rashes or muscle weakness along with Raynaud’s symptoms
- Over 30 years old and get symptoms of Raynaud’s for the first time
- Child under 12 years old with symptoms of Raynaud’s
The health service recommends people with these symptoms avoid smoking to improve their circulation as well as caffeine which is a known trigger for the condition.
Patients with Raynaud’s are advised to keep themselves and their homes warm to prevent their symptoms. Regular exercise can also improve circulation which may help with the condition.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
