How to Recognize Symptoms of Raynaud's Disease

Being cold while outside during the winter months is an unpleasant experience for many people; however, for people suffering from Raynaud's Disease, the experience can be far more serious. The blood vessels of people with Raynaud's Disease contract significantly in the cold, limiting blood flow to the affected areas. While Raynaud's Disease should be diagnosed by a doctor, there are identifying symptoms you can look for.

Instructions

• 1

  Look at your hands after being expose to the cold. People with Raynaud's Disease often see the color of the fingers progress from pinkish, to white and finally blue.

• 2

  Acknowledge changes in sensation in your fingers and toes. While in the cold, your fingers may feel numb, but as your fingers start to warm, it may feel like needles poking your fingers. Some people experience painful swelling or throbbing.

• 3

  Notice the color of your fingers and toes as you begin to warm. They may turn red and begin to swell.

• 4

  Watch for symptoms on all of your extremities including your nose, lips, ears and nipples.

• 5

  Think about how long it's been since you started experiencing the symptoms. Raynaud's Disease can occur at any point in life; however, it is most likely to start between 15 and 25 years of age.

• 6

  Recognize that if you're a female, you are more likely to have Raynaud's Disease.

• 7

  Ask close family members if they've experienced similar symptoms. Many people with Raynaud's disease have relatives who've experienced similar problems.