HEALTH CONDITION
Raynaud's
Raynaud's phenomenon is where your blood stops flowing properly to your fingers and toes. It's common and does not usually cause severe problems. You can often treat the symptoms yourself by keeping warm. Sometimes it can be a sign of a more serious condition.
Symptoms of Raynaud's
Raynaud's affects your blood circulation. When you're cold, anxious or stressed, your fingers and toes may change colour. Other symptoms can include: pain numbness pins and needles The skin may turn white or a lighter colour as blood flow is restricted. Credit: DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/459251/view Sometimes the skin turns blue as blood vessels react. Credit: SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/574648/view The skin may turn red as blood flow returns. Credit: DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/262341/view Raynaud's may make your fingertips appear paler if you have brown or black skin. Credit: Custom Medical Stock Photo / Alamy Stock Photo https://www.alamy.com/mediacomp/imagedetails.aspx?ref=A654KC Some people also find that their ears, nose, lips or nipples are affected. The symptoms of Raynaud's may last from a few minutes to a few hours. Raynaud's is sometimes caused by another health condition, taking certain medicines, or working with vibrating tools for a long time.
Things you can do to help with Raynaud's
If you have Raynaud's: Do keep your home warm wear warm clothes during cold weather, especially on your hands and feet try to avoid sudden changes in temperature exercise regularly – this helps improve circulation try breathing exercises or yoga to help you relax eat a healthy, balanced diet Don’t do not smoke – improve your circulation by quitting smoking do not have too much caffeine (found in tea, coffee, cola and chocolate) – it may trigger the symptoms of Raynaud's
Treatment for Raynaud's from a GP
If you have Raynaud's and your symptoms are very bad or getting worse, a GP may prescribe a medicine to help improve your circulation. For example, you may be offered nifedipine , which is used to treat high blood pressure. Some people need to take this medicine every day. Others only use it to prevent Raynaud's, for example, during cold weather. A GP may arrange tests if they think Raynaud's could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus .
Source: NHS, last reviewed 20 July 2023. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.