About Raynaud’s
If your fingers often become cold, numb, painful and change colour, you might have Raynaud's phenomenon.
What is Raynaud’s?
Raynaud’s, also referred to as Raynaud’s disease or Raynaud’s Phenomenon, is a common condition affecting around 1 in 6 people. It occurs when the small blood vessels in the extremities, constrict under certain conditions.
This triggers a Raynaud’s attack, where the skin becomes pale as the blood flow is restricted. In some cases skin may become blue and then red, as the blood flow returns.
Raynaud’s symptoms generally affect the fingers and toes, but all extremities can be involved, including the ears, nose, lips, tongue and nipples
People with Raynaud’s are sensitive to temperature changes or cold, which can set off the symptoms. Stress is sometimes a trigger.
When to see a doctor
Have sore or swollen fingers and acid reflux or heartburn
Experience joint pain, skin rashes or muscle weakness
Only have symptoms on one side of your body
Are over 30 and getting symptoms of Raynaud's for the first time
Next steps & support
We are here to support you. Our website has all the information you need to learn more, manage your symptoms and get support from our community.
Get support
We are always here to help. Living with a long-term health condition such as Raynaud's or scleroderma can impact upon your life in many different ways, and our support and information can help.
Download your Raynaud’s Information pack
It’s hard to know where to start, this information takes you through it step-by-step.
Common questions
There is evidence that primary Raynaud’s may sometimes be an inherited condition, since multiple cases can arise within the same family. Raynaud’s is not contagious and cannot be passed on to others. Many people will never know what caused them to develop Raynaud’s, although it may sometimes be linked to other underlying health conditions
Anyone of any age can develop primary Raynaud’s without any underlying condition being present. It is more common in women and people usually get symptoms before the age of 30. Raynaud’s is quite rare in young children but is common in teenagers and usually disappears in the early twenties, although this is not always the case.
The SRUK online test cannot be used as medical advice, see your doctor if you are concerned about your health. The Test can help you better understand your symptoms, and what might be important to tell your doctor