In response to exposure to the cold, the body restricts blood flow to the skin to preserve its core temperature. People with Raynaud’s phenomenon (also called Raynaud’s syndrome) experience this restriction of blood flow more readily because of an enhanced sensitivity to cold. The areas of the body affected are typically the fingers and toes, although in rare cases Raynaud’s can affect the lips, nose, ear lobes, nipples, or tongue.[1] The restriction of blood flow in people with Raynaud’s is also commonly triggered by emotional stress. Raynaud’s can be categorized as primary (without another underlying cause) or secondary (resulting from complications of another condition).[2][3][4]
What is Raynaud’s phenomenon?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition in which blood flow to the skin is restricted in response to cold or emotional stress, and it primarily affects the fingers and toes. It can be classified as primary, without an underlying cause, or secondary, due to complications from another condition.