Why do I live in southern Indiana and not somewhere tropical? On days like today when the high will top out at about 10 degrees, I ask myself that and the daunting cold makes it hard to come up with a good answer. Winter is especially hard on me because I have this little thing called Raynaud's.

Ever known someone who is cold all the time? Even when it's 102 and hotter than the blazes outside, they stick their hand on you and it feels like they have been six feet under? Well, that's ME! I get called "a weenie," "the princess," "cold-natured," "walking dead" and "frigid" quite a bit but the truth is, if it wasn't for my trusty space heater that I keep in my car at all times (summer and winter) I probably wouldn't be able to function anywhere but in my constant climate controlled home.

If you are saying, "put more clothes on, you idiot," well that doesn't work either because I don't manufacture my own heat; ergo providing layers to trap in the heat is futile. I do try to wear layers though to protect my skin and provide as much relief as I can.

Okay, so here's the skinny on Raynaud's from Raynauds.org.

The disease causes an interruption of blood flow to the fingers, toes, nose, and/or ears when a spasm occurs in the blood vessels of these areas. Spasms are caused by exposure to cold or emotional stress. Typically, the affected area turns white, then blue, then bright red over the course of the attack. There may be associated tingling, swelling, or painful throbbing.
It is estimated that over 28 million people (20% of women in child bearing years) suffer from Raynaud's but most are undiagnosed and untreated. Many think they are just cold all the time. It's important to be checked though, because left untreated, your appendages could be at risk!
The good news is there are a lot of heated products out there. I just ordered these bad boys to keep my fingers warm while I type. I have a heated pad on my bed that keeps me toasty at night. Also, the BEST way to combat your cold fingers and toes is to get up and get moving. By exercising you force blood into your extremities. Your doctor can help with medications and supplements that will help as well.
So, if you are cold-natured, the cold hurts or your fingers and toes turn white or blue, talk to your doctor the next time you go in for a check up. You might have Raynaud's.

 

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