What is Raynaud's disease?
A person with Raynaud's disease has spasms of the blood vessels in the fingers. The spasm interrupts the blood flow, which causes the skin to become pale or blue. Raynaud's disease may also cause spasms of the blood vessels in the toes, nose and ears. Episodes of blood vessel spasm are usually triggered by exposure to cold temperatures. The underlying cause of Raynaud's disease is unknown. About 1 out of 25 people in the US has Raynaud's disease.

What are the symptoms of Raynaud's disease?
Symptoms of Raynaud's disease during exposure to cold include pale, blue or grey skin, hand numbness, foot numbness, and joint stiffness. Symptoms of Raynaud's disease during rewarming include skin redness, finger pain, and toe pain.

How does the doctor treat Raynaud's disease?
Treatment for Raynaud's disease includes avoiding smoke, avoiding exposure to cold, and medications. Treatment for severe Raynaud's disease may include surgery.