Raynaud's Phenomenon: Symptoms & Signs

Medically Reviewed on 5/12/2020

Raynaud's phenomenon is a type of blood vessel (vascular) disease characterized by a pale to blue to red sequence of color changes of the fingers or toes, most commonly after exposure to cold temperatures. A number of medical conditions are associated with Raynaud's phenomenon.

Signs and symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon include

  • red, white, and blue fingers,
  • cold fingers or toes,
  • color changes in the skin in response to cold or stress, and a
  • numb, prickly feeling or stinging pain upon warming or stress relief.

Cause of Raynaud's phenomenon

The spasm of blood vessels causes Raynaud's phenomenon. The reason for the spasm is unknown, although it may be related to abnormal nerve control of blood-vessel diameter and nerve sensitivity to cold.

Other raynaud's phenomenon symptoms and signs

  • Cold Fingers or Toes
  • Color Changes in the Skin in Response to Cold or Stress
  • Numb, Prickly Feeling or Stinging Pain Upon Warming or Stress Relief
  • Red, White, and Blue Fingers

References
Jameson, J. Larry, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 20th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.