Raynaud’s: the winter frozen-hand disaster amongst runners

Do your fingers flip ice chilly in even the slightest chill, or change to white, blue or purple? If that’s the case, you is likely to be among the many 5 per cent of the final inhabitants experiencing Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP). The syndrome is characterised by episodes of decreased blood circulate to the extremities–mostly fingers, however generally toes, too. For winter runners uncovered to chilly temperatures however cautious of overdressing, RP could be an particularly irritating problem.

Raynaud's cold handsRaynaud's cold hands
Picture: Jessica Burkitt

The first sort of RP, which develops between the ages of 15 and 30, is most typical, however has no identified trigger. Secondary RP develops round age 40, and is extra severe–it may be linked to autoimmune problems corresponding to lupus or scleroderma. If you happen to suspect you might have RP, it’s a good suggestion to see your physician to make sure it’s not indicative of an underlying well being situation.

Major RP is most typical amongst girls, individuals residing in colder climates and people with a household historical past of the situation. Essentially the most noticeable signal of RP is the dramatic change in pores and skin color, however it’s typically accompanied by numbness, tingling or ache within the fingers and fingers. It’s fairly straightforward to identify the runner with RP in a bunch–they’ll be the one one carrying gloves whereas nonetheless working comfortably in shorts and a T-shirt.

running glovesrunning gloves

Runners already battle with frozen fingers within the winter; it’s onerous to excellent the variety of layers it’s best to put on when it’s freezing out, however you’re drenched in sweat. Sadly, throwing on an enormous pair of mittens as quickly because the temperature dips beneath 10 C isn’t a sensible answer for runners who have to steadiness heat with consolation and mobility. Overheated fingers can depart your mittens damp and uncomfortable, and because the sweat dries, it makes your fingers even colder–to not point out, the cumbersome accent could be very impractical for accessing your cellphone or watch mid-workout.

hand warmer cold handshand warmer cold hands

Ideas for surviving winter

  • Stash a pair of cheap, throw-away gloves in your exercise bag for these sudden temperature drops–they’re nice for cold grocery retailer aisles, too.
  • Layer skinny gloves below your chunky mittens so you possibly can entry your cellphone or watch with out being straight uncovered to the chilly air. (Bonus factors in the event that they’re touchscreen-compatible.)
  • Put additional, dry mittens or gloves in your jacket pocket in case your first pair get sweaty and chilly. (Packing a pair of hand heaters wouldn’t harm, both.)
  • Take a sizzling bathe as quickly as you’re completed your cold-weather exercise to get rid of the nippiness.


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