A prominent NHS doctor has issued a vital health warning to people across the UK who notice their fingers turning stark white or blue during cold snaps. While chilly hands are common in winter, this specific discolouration could point to a significant circulatory condition.
Understanding Raynaud's Phenomenon
Dr Nighat Arif, a respected medical professional, explains that this dramatic colour change is characteristic of Raynaud's phenomenon. It is not merely poor circulation but involves a spasm in the small blood vessels, often triggered by cold temperatures or stress. "If your fingers or toes suddenly become white or blue in the cold, this is Raynaud's," Dr Arif stated.
The typical pattern involves the affected digits turning white, then blue, before becoming bright red, tingly, or painful as they warm up and blood flow returns. These episodes can last from a few minutes to several hours and may also impact the ears, nose, lips, or nipples.
Primary vs. Secondary Raynaud's: Knowing the Difference
Dr Arif highlighted a crucial distinction between two forms of the condition. Primary Raynaud's is the milder, more common type, often appearing in younger people. It is usually symmetrical and doesn't cause permanent tissue damage.
However, Secondary Raynaud's is more serious. It tends to have a later onset, after the age of 30 or 40, and can be linked to underlying autoimmune diseases like lupus or scleroderma. Warning signs for this type include:
- Ulcers or necrosis on the fingers or toes.
- Symptoms occurring on one side only (unilateral).
- Abnormal pulses.
- Systemic symptoms like unexplained weight loss, rashes, or breathlessness.
Raynaud's is more common in women, affecting an estimated 5-6% compared to around 4% of men, with women often experiencing a more severe impact on daily life.
Management and When to Seek Help
The NHS advises that many cases can be managed with simple lifestyle measures to stay warm and improve circulation. Key recommendations include:
- Keeping your home and core body warm.
- Wearing gloves, thick socks, and using heat pads.
- Avoiding sudden temperature changes.
- Stopping smoking and vaping, as nicotine hampers blood flow.
- Taking regular exercise and practising stress reduction.
- Reviewing medications like beta-blockers with a GP.
Dr Arif emphasised that while primary Raynaud's may be treated initially with calcium channel blockers, any suspicion of secondary Raynaud's warrants an urgent referral to a rheumatologist. "It's so important to get a referral onto a specialist," she added, urging anyone with red-flag symptoms to book an appointment with their GP for proper investigation.
