Cold Weather

Oh yes.  That's Raynaud's Syndrome or Raynaud's Phenomenon. Lots of us have it here! It's really important to keep your fingers and toes warm in the winter if you have Raynaud's.  It's a circulation thing. Just check with your rheumy to make sure you have a proper diagnosis of it. 

 

Ginny

Hi Jana,

   I get more stiff in the cold weather from RA but, I like it better than the heat.

   Like Ginny said, keep your toes and fingers warm this winter. Raynaud's can be painful and turn your fingers and toes different colors. Take care and stay warm.

                                                          Babs

LOL, don't feel silly Jana.  There's a lot to learn about lupus and its host of cousin disorders! I seem to acquire a new one every year!

 

Raynauds will definitely cause the pain you are experiencing. I get that too and it can be really awful.  You might also notice your fingertips turning blue.  There is reason for concern with Raynauds if you don't protect your "didgets".  Unfortunately, the lack of circulation can cause in severe cases, gangrene.  Loss of fingers or toes can happen.  But this is in extreme cases.  So the best thing to do is just wear those gloves and keep those feet warm. 

 

I'm glad you're going to talk to your doctor about this too.

 

Ginny

JD, I have Raynaud's & have been having trouble with my hands too. I live by the electric blanket in the colder months - have one on my bed, another on my recliner & a third on my couch! :) I've also found it helpful to dress in layers during the colder months - something like an undershirt, short sleeve shirt & a sweater or sweatshirt - that way you can bundle up outside, but remove layers once inside. Also, my Rheumy has me on Norvasc to help with circulation - my doseage increases from 5 to 15 mg depending on the temps. Hope this helps.

I wish I was allowed an electric blanket. Unfortunately, I was told by several doctors (including a cardiologist) that I am too susceptible to electrical fields. My blood pressure skyrockets if I am near high power power lines. We lived near some for 4 months and I was so high I should have had a stroke several times over. I have problems with Raynauds too. My fingers and toes get really white before turning bluish purple. Worse, my hands get cold really easy. My oldest has constantly freezing hands even in summer. Hers are pale too. As soon as a new doctor can be found she will likely be referred out to be checked up on.

Hi Jana, sorry you have yet another symptom. I don't have it myself but a friend of mine does and she's already wearing gloves while she drives. and it's in the 60's. It seems to be fairly common with A/I. Please keep the gloves and socks with you. and let us know what your doctor says. When is your next appt?
hugs