Raynauds disease
Raynaud's disease is a rare disorder that affects blood vessels. It causes episodes of vasospasm (narrowing of the blood vessels), which decreases blood flow to the fingers and toes, and in extremely rare cases to the nose, ears, nipples and lips. The fingers are the most commonly affected area, but the toes are also affected in about 40 per cent of people with Raynaud's disease.
Cold temperatures or stressful emotions can trigger attacks. During these attacks, there is a brief lack of blood flow to the affected parts of the body and the skin can temporarily become white then bluish. As blood flow returns to the area, the skin turns red. The affected areas can throb or feel numb and tingly. With severe, prolonged or repeated episodes of Raynaud's disease, it can cause sores or tissue death (gangrene).