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This is a good reason to see a rheumatologist! While primary Raynaud’s phenomenon is a relatively benign condition for most people, secondary Raynaud’s could be a result of an underlying rheumatic disease which can be successfully treated. A rheumatologist is equipped to determine if it is primary or secondary, and make appropriate treatment recommendations in either case.

Travis from Calgary asks: Do rheumatologists treat Raynaud’s phenomenon?

Raynaud’s is a condition where upon exposure to cold, the peripheral parts of the body – fingers and toes, but sometimes nose or ears – can become painful and change colours from white to blue to red. It is certainly a condition that rheumatologists may see. Raynaud’s can occur in individuals “just because”, often starting as a young adult. It can also happen in association with other rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and scleroderma. A rheumatologist can assess a person for Raynaud’s, make suggestions to help, and also ensure the person does not have any underlying rheumatic disease too.