Although cold feet are common during winter, individuals with Raynaud’s disease may notice a cold or tingling sensation in their toes regardless of the weather. Raynaud’s disease occurs when the blood vessels constrict in response to cold temperatures or stress.
Stress, anxiety, and cold temperature can provoke a Raynaud’s attack. As people are unaware, the disease goes undetected during the earlier stages. Early detection can prevent serious long-term problems caused due to the disease.
Extended parts of the body, furthest from the heart, generally change color from white to blue to red when exposed to cold and heat. Warming up causes normal fingers to turn pale white which slowly turns red as blood starts flowing and warming up the cold areas. Exposure to low temperatures or stress causes the capillaries supplying blood to your hands and toes to contract and temporarily reduce blood circulation. These tiny arteries might harden gradually over time, reducing blood flow even further.
The most common trigger is exposure to cold, such as dipping hands in ice water or being in contact with anything cold.
Raynaud’s disease is split into two types primary and secondary. The most prevalent type is primary Raynaud’s, which is not caused by an underlying ailment. Sufferers must still cope with pain and suffering, which can be mitigated conservatively by lifestyle adjustments. Secondary Raynaud’s syndrome is less prevalent and is frequently the first sign of a deeper connective tissue illness. Secondary Raynaud’s disease, if left untreated, can lead to severe consequences.
If the condition is primary, the person will be counseled by medical professionals on how to manage body temperature and keep hands, feet, ears, and other extensions of the body warm. There are medications to treat blood pressure that can be used to let blood flow easily throughout the body. If the disease is detected early and the necessary precautions are taken, it is less likely to cause any more complications in the future. Our highly-experienced podiatrist, Dr. John C. Marzano, and the dedicated team at Westchester Podiatric Healing Medicine, P.C., NY, can effectively address your foot and ankle health issues. Contact us at (914) 423-0600 for more information and to book your appointments. We are located at 984 N. Broadway, Suite LL03, Yonkers, NY 10701.