Fingers or toes may change color when they are exposed to cold temperatures or stress or when there is a problem with their blood supply.
Avoid smoking.
Avoid exposure to cold in any form. Wear mittens or gloves outdoors and when handling ice or frozen food. Avoid chilling, which may happen following any active recreational sport. Wear comfortable, roomy shoes and wool socks. When outside, always wear shoes.
Call your doctor for an appointment if:
The doctor will perform a physical examination, which will include close examination of the hands, arms, and fingers.
The doctor will ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, including:
Tests that may be done include:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Blanching of the fingers; Fingers - pale; Toes that change color; Toes - pale
Olin JW. Other peripheral arterial diseases. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 80.
Updated by: Neil J. Gonter, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Columbia University, NY and private practice specializing in Rheumatology at Rheumatology Associates of North Jersey, Teaneck, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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