Does cold weather affect your feet and fingers?

Can it turn into something more serious?
In severe and prolonged episodes, long-term oxygen deprivation causes the skin to undergo permanent changes. It may look permanently discoloured and shiny, and ulcers or scabs may develop. The tips of the fingers and toes are particularly prone to these problems, resembling the changes caused by frostbite. This is called dry gangrene and may need surgery.

If you suffer from Raynaud's phenomenon it's wise to see your GP. You will get a physical examination to make sure there are no associated illnesses, but blood tests will be more useful as they can predict the future onset of, for example, scleroderma. However, despite the available tests the down side of this is that there are, as yet, no known cures for these illnesses.

How can I prevent attacks?
Protect yourself from cold and keep all parts of your body warm, not just the extremities. When outdoors in winter, wear hats, scarves, warm socks and fur-lined boots. Wear mittens over your gloves and wristlets to cover the gap between sleeves and gloves. While indoors, wear socks and comfortable shoes.

Avoid reaching into the freezer or refrigerator without protective insulated gloves or an oven-mitt. If you smoke ask for help to stop, as nicotine causes constriction of small blood vessels, which can cause an attack.