Here are some ideas for understanding and treating Raynauds: Raynauds is associated with several autoimmune diseases. The color changes are a result of spasm in the arterioles (small arteries) of the hands, fingers, feet and teeth. The spasms reduce blood flow to the extremities and cause the color changes (blue, purple, blackish, dead white and sometimes red). The spasms are intermittent and may just look bad or be painful. They are triggered by cold and stress. It isn’t curable but can be prevented and treated to reduce the severity. Severe Raynauds can cause ulcers in the fingertips and toes, which can turn into gangrene especially in Scleroderma. Anything that reduces blood flow to the extremities should be avoided! Therefore, absolutely no smoking. Keep extremities as warm as possible. Use warm water even for washing fruits and vegetables. Wear gloves or mittens anytime you’re handling cold items or ice and always outside when weather cold. Wear warm socks even to bed. Use hand warmers and any other devices that can warm fingers and toes. Be careful if you have peripheral neuropathy and decreased sensation not to burn tissue.
Prescription medication that dilates arteries such as Nitroglycerin paste and calcium channel blockers like Amlodipine (Norvasc) can help a great deal. I have had Raynauds for years associated with systemic lupus and find amlodipine has been extremely helpful. It lowers BP, so that effect needs monitored, especially if your BP tends to be low. If not diagnosed yet, take pictures with your smart phone to show Dr since it’s intermittent.