Key Points

• Raynaud's is a rare disorder that affects blood flow to the fingers and toes, and rarely affects other areas such as the nose, ears, nipples, and lips.
• When Raynaud's occurs without any known cause, it is called primary Raynaud's. When a cause can be identified, the disease is called secondary Raynaud's.
• People with Raynaud's have attacks in response to cold or emotional stress. During these attacks, their fingers, toes, or other extremities temporarily pale and/or become bluish due to a lack of blood flow. As blood flow returns, the area turns red. The affected areas also may throb or feel cold, numb, or tingly.
• Raynaud's is usually diagnosed based on a history of symptoms, the exclusion of other conditions, and certain diagnostic tests.
• Common causes of secondary Raynaud's include other disorders, medicines, chemicals, or work conditions that affect blood flow to the extremities.
• Primary Raynaud's often can be managed with minor lifestyle changes. Secondary Raynaud's may require changing or stopping certain medicines, treating any underlying conditions, and having surgery (in severe cases).
• People with severe secondary Raynaud's may develop sores or tissue death (gangrene) in the extremities. This is uncommon.