With the recent freezing weather, it’s likely your hands have been cold. While chilly fingers are often just an inconvenience, in some cases, they can indicate a more serious issue. So, when should you be concerned?

If your hands or feet stay cold despite your best efforts, and your fingers occasionally turn bright white, it could be a sign of a medical condition requiring attention. While many attribute cold extremities to low temperatures, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored.

Signs to Look For

If you regularly struggle with cold hands—even in moderate temperatures—and resort to wearing gloves indoors, you may be familiar with the frustration. For some, no matter how many layers they wear or hot drinks they hold, their fingers stay icy and sometimes even change color.

One common cause of these symptoms is Raynaud’s phenomenon, where blood flow to the extremities is temporarily reduced due to blood vessel constriction, often triggered by cold or stress.

What is Raynaud’s Phenomenon?

Raynaud’s causes fingers to turn white, blue, or purple. It can be primary (not linked to another condition) or secondary (associated with autoimmune diseases). Treatment depends on the form and severity.

If your fingers change color frequently or you experience pain, sores, or ulcers, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider.