Raynaud’s syndrome

Also called Raynaud’s phenomenon or Raynaud’s disease, Raynaud’s syndrome is a disorder of blood vessels, which causes the small arteries in fingers or toes to suddenly spasm when exposed to cold. This leads to narrowing of the vessel and a sudden decrease in blood flow to the digit. As a result, the finger or toe will turn suddenly white or blue. As the blood returns, the skin may turn red and throb or tingle. Raynaud’s is usually not dangerous, but it can be painful and frustrating. In rare, severe cases, reduced blood flow may lead to ulcers or tissue damage.

Primary care providers can often manage mild Raynaud’s. Rheumatologists treat cases linked to autoimmune disorders. Penn Medicine specialists are national leaders in diagnosing and treating the autoimmune and connective tissue diseases most often linked with Raynaud’s.

If your fingers turn white or blue when holding a cold drink, experiencing strong emotions, or reaching into the freezer, you might have Raynaud’s syndrome. This condition makes parts of the body overreact to cold or stress. During an attack, the skin may change color and feel cold, numb, or tingly. As the area warms up, you might feel stinging or throbbing pain. Symptoms usually last around 15 minutes but can be shorter or longer.

Raynaud’s most often affects the fingers and toes, but it can also involve the ears, nose, or lips.

Your provider will start by asking about your symptoms, when they began, how often they happen, and what seems to trigger them. There’s no single medical test for Raynaud’s, but your provider may do blood or urinalysis tests to rule out other conditions as part of the workup. For example, you might also have a nailfold capillaroscopy test where a small drop of oil is placed at the base of your fingernail, then viewed under a microscope to check the tiny blood vessels. If the vessels look unusual, it could mean you have another disease linked to Raynaud’s.

You may be able to manage symptoms with simple changes:

• It is important to wear warm gloves, thick socks, and use hand or foot warmers when temperatures are below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Raynaud’s may also be triggered by low core temperature, so wear clothing that keeps your core warm.
• Avoid common triggers, like stress or certain medications.
• At the first sign of an episode, warm your hands by soaking them in warm water.
• Limit repetitive hand movements, like typing or playing the piano.
• Stay active with regular physical activity.
• Raise the air conditioning temperature or wear warm clothing when in cool indoor spaces.

Penn Medicine is one of the world’s leading academic medical centers. Our specialists provide diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for Raynaud’s syndrome, as well as for autoimmune connective tissue diseases that can cause secondary Raynaud’s. We take a team approach to care, bringing together experts in rheumatology, dermatology, vascular medicine, and other specialties to understand your condition and find the right treatment plan for you.