If you’ve noticed your hands or feet changing color when exposed to cold temperatures, it might be a warning sign of something more serious than just being cold. While many people shrug it off as normal winter discomfort, medical experts warn that this reaction could signal an underlying health condition that shouldn’t be ignored.
When the weather cools down, it’s perfectly normal to feel a little chilly. However, if your fingers or toes begin to turn white, blue, or even purple in the cold, your body might be trying to tell you something important. According to Dr. James O’Donovan, a physician who shares health advice with over 400,000 subscribers on YouTube, these symptoms could point to Raynaud’s disease, a condition where parts of the body—typically the extremities—respond abnormally to cold or stress by becoming numb or changing color.
“In Raynaud’s disease, the smaller arteries that supply blood to the skin narrow in response to triggers like cold weather. This limits blood flow to the affected areas, which is called vasospasm, and it then results in symptoms of Raynaud’s,” Dr. O’Donovan explained in one of his YouTube videos.
When your blood flow is restricted like this, the affected areas—usually the fingers and toes—can react in surprising ways. Before feeling numb or cold, you might first notice that your skin becomes pale. Then it may turn blue or purple, depending on the severity and your skin tone. According to the Mayo Clinic, these color shifts are one of the key indicators of Raynaud’s disease, along with a distinct set of symptoms that can vary in intensity.
Common Symptoms of Raynaud’s Disease
Some of the most reported symptoms include:
- Cold fingers or toes, often more than the rest of the body
- Skin that changes color—starting with white, then shifting to blue or purple
- A numb or prickly feeling, especially during rewarming
- Stinging or throbbing pain when circulation returns
- Swelling or tingling in the affected areas
Dr. O’Donovan emphasizes that depending on your skin color, these changes may be more or less noticeable. “In terms of signs and symptoms, the first thing you’re likely to notice are areas of your skin turning white then blue—but depending on your skin tone, these changes may be harder or easier to see,” he said. Additionally, he notes that some people may experience unusual sensations in their hands or feet, including numbness, tingling, or even sharp pain.
What’s interesting—and perhaps frustrating—is that medical research has yet to pinpoint exactly why some people develop Raynaud’s. While it’s clear that cold temperatures and stress are common triggers, the underlying cause remains a mystery in many cases. However, the good news is that symptoms usually ease up once the hands or feet warm up again.
“When the skin warms and blood flow improves, the affected areas may change color again, and they may throb, tingle, or swell,” Dr. O’Donovan said. “Even after you’ve warmed up, it can take up to 15 minutes for blood flow to return to normal.” He also mentioned that Raynaud’s isn’t just limited to fingers and toes—the nose, lips, and ears can also be affected.
Types of Raynaud’s Disease: Primary vs. Secondary
Raynaud’s comes in two distinct forms, each with its own causes and potential health implications.
Primary Raynaud’s Disease is the most common type. It typically develops on its own and isn’t linked to any other health condition. Many people with primary Raynaud’s experience mild symptoms and don’t require medical treatment. For some, it may even improve or disappear over time without intervention.
Secondary Raynaud’s Phenomenon is less common but more severe. It’s often triggered by another underlying medical issue such as autoimmune diseases (like lupus or scleroderma), vascular disorders, or nerve-related conditions. Because secondary Raynaud’s is connected to more serious health problems, it may require medical management to prevent complications like tissue damage.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Dr. O’Donovan recommends seeking medical advice if you notice any unusual or concerning symptoms. It’s especially important to contact your doctor if:
- The symptoms appear only on one side of the body (for example, only in the right hand)
- You experience joint pain, skin rashes, or muscle weakness along with color changes
- Your fingers or toes stay discolored for an extended period of time
- You experience severe pain, open sores, or signs of infection
- You have a history of diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders
Even if your symptoms seem mild, it’s best not to take any chances with your health. Early diagnosis and proper management can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life. Dr. O’Donovan reminds people, “Always prioritize your health, and if something feels off, see your doctor.”
Understanding how your body responds to cold weather can help you take the right steps to stay healthy and comfortable. Whether it’s wearing gloves, using hand warmers, or simply being more aware of how your body reacts, paying attention to these signals can make a big difference.
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, don’t brush them off as just a quirk of winter. It might be your body’s way of asking for help. Share this article with friends and family so they can recognize the signs of Raynaud’s disease too—and know when it’s time to seek medical advice.
