When Are Cold Feet Not Normal?
What does it mean if your feet and hands are frequently cold when you live in a warm climate like our Nature Coast patients (generally, at least!)? Unusual sensitivity to cold in the body's extremities can signify Raynaud's. In October, Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle recognizes Raynaud's Awareness Month and it's a good opportunity to share some information about this condition with our patients.
Common Signs of Raynaud’s
In addition to cold feet, hands, and noses, other symptoms may be pointing to Raynaud's. These include:
Color changes when your skin is exposed to cold—usually white or blue.
Burning, numbness, tingling, and throbbing pain in a cold setting, including weather conditions or a highly air-conditioned building.
Pain and discomfort when holding a cold beverage or getting something out of the freezer
Any or all the above symptoms occurring during times of stress
Who Gets Raynaud’s
Raynaud's is a disorder where spasms in small blood vessels that bring blood to your extremities occur, reducing blood flow to those areas and causing the symptoms above. Doctors don't know exactly what causes Raynaud's, but it currently affects between 15 and 30 million Americans and 20% of women of childbearing age. It comes in two forms. Primary Raynaud's is diagnosed when symptoms occur on their own. Secondary Raynaud's is associated with other conditions such as autoimmune diseases like Lupus and Rheumatoid arthritis, circulation problems, injury or repetitive arterial trauma, and exposure to certain chemicals and toxic substances. Raynaud's may also be triggered by some medications and certain forms of chemotherapy.
Treatment Options
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for Raynaud's, but there are ways to lessen the discomfort. When a Raynaud's attack erupts, the best course of action is to move to a warmer setting as soon as possible. Running hands and feet under warm (but not hot) water and moving arms in a circular windmill pattern will help restore blood flow faster. Some medications can help reduce the number of attacks and the severity of the symptoms.
Preventive measures for avoiding Raynaud’s attacks include:
Wearing multiple layers on feet and hands
Avoiding prolonged periods in cold settings
Use foot and hand warmers when the weather is cold
Don’t smoke (it further impedes circulation)
Find better ways to manage stress
Exercise regularly (this will help with both stress and circulation)
If you are concerned that you may have Raynaud’s, contact our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 and make an appointment to see our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales.