What is Raynaud's phenomenon?

Raynaud's phenomenon can cause discomfort as the blood supply to your fingers or toes reduces if you're cold or feeling stressed. The affected areas may change colour, usually to white, then blue, and then red.

You may find that you don't experience all three stages. For example, your hands may simply go blue then red. These colour changes are often accompanied by pain or a tingling feeling. You may experience cold feet as well, and the tip of your nose may also feel uncomfortable and change colour in the cold.

Raynaud's phenomenon can occur:

• on its own (primary)
• with another condition such as scleroderma or, less commonly, lupus (secondary).

Most people with primary Raynaud's won't go on to develop any further problems.

- See more at: www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/conditions/raynauds-phenomenon/what-is-raynauds-phenomenon.aspx